ShareBy Chidi Emmanuel
KUWAIT: As part of their efforts to promote peace, investment and tourism, African ambassadors in Kuwait on Wednesday highlighted the key programs lined up to make Africa one of the greatest economies. At a press briefing held at Crowne Plaza hotel ahead of the African Day celebration, the envoys urged Kuwaitis and foreigners to explore the vast investment opportunities in Africa.
Sierra Leonean Ambassador to Kuwait Haja Ishata ThomasSierra Leonean Ambassador to Kuwait Haja Ishata Thomas highlighted the key programs lined up to make Africa an investment magnet and one of the greatest economies in Africa. She hailed Africa-Kuwait bilateral relations and urged Kuwaiti investors to turn to Africa for fruitful investments in education and agriculture. "Africa is beautiful and business-friendly. It has a lot of untapped resources as it is opening up some business ventures, including the transport, tourism, educational and agricultural sectors," she said.
Kenyan Ambassador to Kuwait Halima A MohamudOn Africa-Kuwait ties, Kenyan Ambassador to Kuwait Halima A Mohamud said African countries have enjoyed cordial bilateral relations for decades. She lauded the efforts of Kuwaiti leaders in maintaining peace and tranquility in this region. "There are over 30 African embassies in Kuwait, which is a great testimony to the cordial relationship Africa and Kuwait enjoy," she noted.
Responding to questions on reforms and problems Africans face in Kuwait, Senegalese Ambassador Ibrahim Al Khalil Seck pointed out some of the steps they are taking in tackling these issues. He urged investors to experience Africa's ecofriendly and market-friendly environment. The ambassador in his goodwill message reaffirmed the embassy's commitment to Kuwait media. In his remarks, the Egyptian Ambassador to Kuwait Osama Shaltout pointed out some of the major reforms that have been made, which include a 'total war' against terrorism and other financial crimes.
Africa Day
Africa Day will be marked on Wednesday, June 8, 2022. Africa Day is a day celebrated by African people around the world. It is an annual celebration marking the historic anniversary of the founding of the Organization of African Unity on May 25, 1963, now known as the African Union, which was established in 2002 to be the organization's successor.
Since its first day, the organization has aimed to strengthen the continent's joint work to achieve stability, progress and prosperity, and has always been a symbol of the determination and will of African people that freed themselves from the shackless of the colonial powers and their domination at the time.
The heads of states and governments of the African Union declared 2022 the 'Year of Nutrition', under the theme 'Building resilience in nutrition on the African continent: Accelerate the human capital, social and economic development'. The year will witness important nutrition-related events.
The ambassadors of the African diplomatic corps expressed their sincere thanks and appreciation to the support of HH the Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to the development efforts of the African Union.
"Africa-Kuwait relations are historic and highlight the importance of the African continent and its diverse potential and capabilities in all areas. It is a continent with resources and opportunities, especially in the fields of agriculture, telecommunications, financial sector, infrastructure and tourism, despite its daunting challenges," Togolese Ambassador Mohamed Sad Ouro-Sama said.
"This year's celebration is very special, as it is happening after a two-year pause due to the repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic that overshadowed all significant events and celebrations. Kuwait has spared no effort to bolster cooperation with Africa through loans, grants and technical assistance from relevant Kuwait authorities - particularly the Kuwait Fund for Economic Development to finance the projects and programs of the African continent," he added.
