London, July 17, 2025 – The first Africa-London business summit will be held next year, Sir Sadiq Khan has announced during a trade mission to the continent.
The mayor said the summit will be hosted in London with the aim of tapping into the “huge economic opportunities that a strong, mutual relationship with the continent can bring”.
Sir Sadiq Khan began his investment trip in Lagos, Nigeria, this week and will also see him visit Accra in Ghana, and Johannesburg and Cape Town in South Africa.
The Conservative shadow chancellor Mel Stride acknowledged that while cultural links “are very important”, he feels the mayor should be in London “with his hands on the tiller” to tackle issues such as shoplifting.
The summit would bring together entrepreneurs and investors, state officials and trade groups from across the 54-nation continent.
The aim is to attract foreign investment to the capital and boost trade links, a City Hall spokesperson said.
Africa currently accounts for 1.25% of foreign direct investment into London, according to figures from the mayor’s office.
“Expanding ties with Africa will be key to delivering our international trade ambitions, creating thousands of good jobs in the next five years and beyond,” Sir Sadiq said.
“London has a rich history with the continent through our diaspora communities.” (BBC)
