Inaugural ICOA Convention Investment & Trade Expo Day 1

The debate on whether Africa and the global south need aid or trade has been ongoing over time. The debate always comes down to the need to open up trade for countries in the global south as a more sustainable route to the socio-economic development of the countries in the global south, compared to the provision of foreign aid which doesn’t seem to have given tangible outputs for almost 50-100years of post-colonialism. Trade is seen more as a way for developing countries to retain their dignity, as they interact with the more developed countries as partners, while aid is patronizing and demeaning of the developing countries.

However, trade cannot happen unless the parties therein understand each other’s expectations, especially in terms of quality standards, as well as the systems of trade. From this background, the Inaugural ICOA Convention & Trade Expo 2024 is proposed. 

Select Speakers; Entrepreneurial Journeys.

Heads of government, top leaders, founders, and entrepreneurs will gather in Boston for the 2024 ICOA convention, to share how they are disrupting industries through their inventions and a human-centered reimagining of the concept of entrepreneurship. Speakers' biographies coming soon.  Stay tuned.

2024 ICOA CONVENTION AGENDA

Charting a path for regional economic ascendance, the ICOA Convention, themed "Enhancing East African Community Competitiveness in Global Value Chains," will convene from October 11-14, 2024, at The Westin Copley Place in Boston, MA, USA. This premier event will gather visionary leaders, pioneering entrepreneurs, and innovative thinkers to strategize on bolstering East Africa's role in the global economy. 

Through dynamic discussions on innovation, digital transformation, sustainable practices, and impactful public-private partnerships, participants will gain crucial insights and forge collaborations that drive regional and global growth.

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM: Delegates arrive and Registration opens 

07:00 PM: Pan-African Dinner and Entertainment 

* Evening event performances and networking.