The Inter-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025 roadshow made a significant stop in Johannesburg as part of its continental journey to drum up excitement and participation for the upcoming trade fair. With Johannesburg being a vital economic hub, the event saw the participation of over 400 attendees, including representatives from South Africa's private sector, government, and regulatory bodies, all rallying in support of the initiative. Humphrey Nwugo, Director of Regional Operations at Afreximbank, spoke with CNBC Africa's Godfrey Mutizwa about the fair’s progress and aspirations. The roadshow has traveled to major African cities, including Nairobi and Accra, in a bid to galvanize participation from various sectors across the continent. 'We had equipment manufacturers, agricultural producers, and textile participants,' Nwugo remarked. According to him, the Diversity Tailored International Consulting (DTIC) played a critical role in mobilizing South African participation. 'The mix of exhibitors reflects the dynamic nature of the African market,' he added. The Inter-African Trade Fair first launched in Cairo, Egypt, in 2018, grew exponentially with subsequent events, including the 2021 Durban event, which witnessed a record $40 billion in deals. This growth is attributed to the encompassing nature of the IATF - seen as a marketplace for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTFA) - fostering trade growth and boosting economic integration. In 2025, IATF is expected to host over 2,500 exhibitors in Algiers, Algeria. With more than 35,000 visitors projected, including a substantial number joining virtually, the fair aims to strike deals worth approximately $43 billion. These ambitious targets are reflective of Afreximbank’s strategy to uplift intra-African trade. IATF is not only a trade showcase but a crucible for exchanging ideas, knowledge, and resources that will drive the future trading landscape of Africa. 'Intra-African trade is currently low compared to global standards, accounting for just 17-19% of the continent's trade activities,' Nwugo noted. 'Yet, with AFCFTA offering a market of 1.4 billion people and a GDP of $3.5 trillion, there's a palpable potential for more. For African manufacturers, it's crucial to capitalize on the benefit and create products, authentically African in origin, conforming to AfCFTA's rules.' Importantly, the introduction of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) is set to revolutionize trade settlements, negating the need for transactions in foreign currencies traditionally relied upon, primarily the US dollar. This system promises to streamline operations, lighten financial barriers, and augment economic cooperation amongst African nations. Furthermore, the roadshow seeks to engage South African businesses more prominently. Despite South Africa's predominant role, contributing almost 80% of intra-African exports and about 50% of imports within Southern Africa, Nwugo emphasizes deeper involvement. 'We need South African businesses to not only participate but to lead at the IATF. This is why the government is playing a vital role in galvanizing engagement,' he said. The pitch for IATF in Algiers is compelling, extending beyond conventional trade opportunities. 'We want businesses to explore partnerships, discover new markets, and partake in invaluable business-to-business interactions. The benefits are immense,' Nwugo concluded reassuringly. The Johannesburg segment's success, evinced by enthusiastic participation and robust dialogue, bodes well for the IATF’s aim—to create a seamless marketplace facilitating and flourishing intra-African trade. As the roadshow marches on, the anticipation for Algiers 2025 continues to build, with stakeholders eager for an event that promises economic progression, tangible outcomes, and integration within the African continent.