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Equity Group Holdings’ Group Director for International Trade Relations and CWEIC’s Hub Director for Central and East Africa, AQ Hamza, has underscored the region’s growing appeal to global investors and the critical role of SMEs in driving Africa’s next phase of economic expansion. Speaking on Leadership Legends by Superbrands on Radio 44, Hamza detailed how Equity is helping unlock trade and investment across East and Central Africa through strategic market access, financial support, and regional partnerships.

Over the past four years, Equity has led a series of high-impact trade missions, enabling thousands of businesses to enter new markets. Notable successes include Kenyan companies securing export contracts and winning major infrastructure tenders in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following Equity’s inaugural mission in 2021. In 2024 alone, more than 180 companies participated in missions across Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, the DRC, and the Kenya Roadshow, which drew over 150 international firms.

Hamza emphasised the importance of moving businesses “from market exploration to deal execution,” supported by tools such as Equity’s upgraded EasyBiz platform, tailored financing products, and dedicated post-mission follow-up to help SMEs convert opportunities into tangible growth.

He also highlighted increasing investor interest from the Middle East, Europe, India, and Asia, driven by strong regional growth forecasts and emerging opportunities in agribusiness, manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and logistics. Equity’s upcoming representative office in Dubai will further strengthen trade corridors between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, offering businesses expanded access to global capital and partners.

Watch the full interview below: