Discussion themes & speakers

We have a number of high-level government speakers from Cote d’Ivoire lined up for the module. We look forward to sharing their profiles with you shortly, so keep an eye out for event updates!

For now, please find below an insight into the topics and themes that will be discussed during the module.

Keynote 1: Future Trends in African Economies

This keynote will provide a comprehensive business-focused analysis of the evolving African economic landscape, highlighting the key factors driving change and shaping investment opportunities. We will explore how regional politics, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and local policy reforms are influencing the social, economic, and business environments across the continent. These factors not only affect market stability but also impact business operations, supply chains, and the overall investment climate in Africa.

In addition, we will identify emerging sectors that present significant growth potential for investors. From technology and digital transformation to renewable energy, agriculture, and fintech, Africa is experiencing a surge in innovation and market demand. However, successful market entry and investment will require navigating challenges such as regulatory complexities, political risk, and infrastructure gaps. This session will offer a practical outlook on the most promising industries and key strategies for businesses looking to capitalize on Africa’s economic transformation, while addressing the risks and opportunities in this rapidly changing environment.

Keynote 2/Panel Discussion: The Future of Commodities in Africa: Opportunities and Challenges

As Africa continues to play a pivotal role in the global commodities market, the future of its key resources—agriculture, energy, and mining—remains both highly promising and increasingly complex. This session will explore how shifting global market dynamics, environmental concerns, and technological advancements are reshaping Africa’s commodities sector, providing both new opportunities and unique challenges for businesses and investors.

From agricultural commodities like cocoa and coffee to the continent’s rich reserves of oil, gas, and minerals such as gold, uranium, and bauxite, Africa’s resource wealth is a cornerstone of its economic development. However, the impact of global demand shifts, climate change, and sustainability regulations is altering the landscape of these industries. Moreover, geopolitical tensions, infrastructure limitations, and fluctuating prices present additional hurdles for stakeholders across the value chain.

In this keynote and panel discussion, industry experts will dive into the evolving trends and investment opportunities in Africa’s commodities markets, while critically examining the challenges that companies must navigate. With Africa’s vast resource potential at the center of global energy and supply chain conversations, this session will provide essential insights for businesses seeking to capitalize on Africa’s commodity sector, while addressing the need for innovation, sustainability, and resilience in an increasingly interconnected world.

Panel Discussion: Navigating the African Market: Insights from Successful Leaders

Africa is a continent of immense opportunity, but navigating its diverse and dynamic markets requires a deep understanding of local nuances, regulatory landscapes, and industry-specific challenges. In this panel discussion, we will hear from successful leaders across multiple sectors—finance, technology, legal, agriculture, and energy—who have not only entered but thrived in the African market.

Our distinguished panelists will share their experiences, best practices, and strategies for overcoming barriers to entry, adapting to local business environments, and scaling operations across the continent. From navigating complex legal and regulatory frameworks to capitalizing on Africa’s burgeoning tech ecosystem and natural resource potential, this discussion will provide practical insights on how businesses can succeed in one of the world’s most promising yet challenging markets.

Whether you’re a seasoned investor, a startup founder, or a corporate executive looking to expand into Africa, this session will equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate and capitalize on Africa’s diverse and rapidly evolving market opportunities.

Speakers

Karim Traoré

Karim Traoré has been Chief of Staff to the Ivorian Prime Minister since April 2022, and has over 20 years’ experience gained in Côte d’Ivoire and the United States.

Karim Traoré holds a degree in Statistical Engineering from ENSEA in Abidjan and a Master’s in Public Economics from the University of Cocody Abidjan. Karim is an alumnus of the TRIUM Executive Global MBA program, Class of 2018.

After working at Côte d’Ivoire’s Ministry of Economy and Finance, Karim Traoré joined the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2013 as an Economist with responsibility for the Togo team. Since 2018, he has been the IMF’s External Expert on Public Finance Management.

Between December 2014 and October 2018, Karim Traoré was Chief of Staff to the Minister of Budget and State Portfolio. In this position, he contributed to the digitization of tax payments (e-tax and payment of property tax by mobile-money) and the introduction of an electronic land register book.

Between November 2018 and July 2021, he joined the Ivorian Prime Minister’s Office as Special Advisor to the Prime Minister, Head of the Pole in charge of planning, economic development issues, public finance and the financial sector. In this capacity, he coordinated crisis management, including COVID-19 and the setting up and monitoring of support funds. He is also responsible for coordinating the Ivorian government’s flagship project, the Government Social Program (PSGouv) 2019-2020. His actions have resulted in an innovative PSGouv project management model, combining a results-based approach, performance, transparency and accountability.

In July 2021, Karim Traoré was appointed Deputy Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister, in charge of economic governance and infrastructure.

Father of 3 children, this executive holds 6 international certificates and represents Côte d’Ivoire in several economic circles. Karim Traoré is also member of numerous Ivorian companies’ board.

Solange Amichia

Solange Amichia has been Chief Executive Officer of the Centre de Promotion des Investissements en Côte d’Ivoire (CEPICI) since 2021.

She has spent a large part of her career abroad, notably in France and the United States, where she acquired considerable expertise in investment banking. She graduated from the EDC Business School in Paris in 1983, specializing in SME management.

With over 20 years’ experience in the investment banking sector, Solange Amichia rose through the ranks to become Senior Vice President at Société Générale Corporate & Investment Banking (SGCIB) in New York, where she worked until 2013.

In February 2014, Solange AMICHIA returned to Côte d’Ivoire and took on the role of Deputy Managing Director of CEPICI.

She has also acquired certifications in finance, project management and information systems design, which have propelled her into increasingly important roles as an expert in project management, information systems design, capital markets products and investment promotion.

Besides her professional duties, Solange Amichia plays a crucial role as Vice-President of the Institut Delayam, a foundation dedicated to active citizenship. This involvement illustrates her desire to contribute to the well-being of her community and promote essential values for society. In addition, since 2019, she has held the position of special advisor to the President of the Agnéby-Tiassa Regional Council for economic projects in the region.

She is a fervent advocate of the environment and sustainable development, themes that have become crucial to the future of the planet. She also enjoys culinary travel, exploring the richness of the world’s cuisine, as well as African art, a passion that reflects her attachment to her culture and roots.