Salma Malika Haddadi, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), highlighted Afreximbank’s collaboration with the African Union in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and advancing the Agenda 2063 vision for a prosperous, integrated, and self-reliant continent.

Haddadi noted that since the signing of a cooperation agreement between the two institutions in 2018, Afreximbank has played a key role in supporting intra-African trade, building industrial capacity, and enhancing value addition across sectors.

“The bank has been instrumental in fostering Africa’s economic transformation through initiatives such as trade finance, industrial development, and crisis response mechanisms,” she said, adding that Afreximbank’s agility during emergencies, including its swift response to the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrated its importance as a cornerstone of Africa’s financial resilience.

Haddadi commended the Afreximbank for its longstanding contribution to Africa’s integration, trade expansion, and industrialization during the Bank’s Farewell Conference and Investiture Ceremony held in Cairo.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Haddadi said the event marked not only a leadership transition but also “a moment of continuity, excellence, and shared continental destiny.”

Haddadi also paid tribute to Prof. Benedict Oramah, describing his tenure as one marked by humility, innovation, and a deep commitment to Africa’s development. “Professor Oramah’s leadership exemplified excellence and vision, helping to turn challenges into opportunities for transformation,” she said.

Extending her congratulations to George Elombi, the incoming President of Afreximbank, Haddadi expressed confidence in his ability to build on the bank’s strong foundation. “You inherit not an institution awaiting direction, but one of strength and purpose. We are confident you will continue to drive Afreximbank’s mission with distinction,” she affirmed.

The Deputy Chairperson concluded by reaffirming the African Union Commission’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Afreximbank during the next decade of Africa’s integration and development.