Standard Bank, Africa’s largest bank by assets with an on-the-ground presence in 20 countries and six international financial centres, is gearing up to participate in the 2025 U.S.-Africa Business Summit in Luanda, Angola from 23–25 June. A high-level delegation from both the bank’s Africa and New York operations will be in attendance to contribute to key policy and business dialogues aimed at accelerating trade, investment, and development across the continent.
Helmut Engelbrecht, Africa Regions Regional Chief Executive of Standard Bank Group, expressed optimism about the potential for stronger ties and greater mutual benefit between the world’s biggest economy and Africa. With the continent projected to reach a $16 trillion GDP by mid-century and a rapidly growing, youthful population, collaboration, access, and participation are crucial for achieving shared prosperity.
The Summit, hosted by the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA), will bring together over 1,000 public and private sector leaders under the theme “Pathways to Prosperity: A Shared Vision for U.S.-Africa Partnership”. The event aims to foster dialogue and partnerships that can drive economic growth and development on the continent.
Standard Bank will play a significant role in the Summit, with senior executives participating in strategic roundtables and panels focusing on digital innovation, trade integration, infrastructure finance, and energy transition. Derick De Zilva, Chief Executive of Standard New York, will discuss trade and investment cooperation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), while Dele Kuti, Head of Energy & Infrastructure, will address infrastructure finance and power transmission networks.
The bank’s contributions at the Summit build on its track record of supporting regional infrastructure projects like the Lobito Corridor and mobilizing public-private partnerships to bridge critical infrastructure gaps. Standard Bank remains committed to enabling inclusive, sustainable growth across Africa through its regional footprint, local expertise, and global presence.
In the energy sector, Standard Bank is actively supporting Africa’s transition to renewable energy solutions that are economically viable and environmentally responsible. The bank’s focus on renewables and transition fuels like natural gas aligns with each market’s unique development context.
As Africa moves towards full implementation of AfCFTA, the continent stands to benefit from increased intra-African trade and market access. The agreement is projected to create a single continental market of 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of approximately US$3.4 trillion. The deepening collaboration between African institutions and international partners is crucial for realizing the full potential of AfCFTA and lifting millions of people out of poverty.
Standard Bank’s participation in the U.S.-Africa Business Summit underscores its commitment to building a thriving Africa that is sustainable, inclusive, and globally connected. The bank’s involvement in the Summit reflects its dedication to advancing the continent’s growth through strategic partnerships and innovative financial solutions.
