Afretrade, a new digital platform designed to bridge African talent and enterprises with global opportunities, has officially launched in Lagos marking what many industry watchers describe as a major leap for Africa’s digital trade ecosystem.
The launch, held on Tuesday, November 18th, 2025 at the Muson Centre, Onikan, brought together entrepreneurs, investors, innovators, and international partners from across Africa, Europe, and North America.
In his welcome address, Founder and CEO Lekan Salaam shared the inspiring journey behind Afretrade, describing it as a bold solution for Africa’s trading uture. He emphasized that the platform was built to strengthen talent, trade, and training —three pillars considered essential for Africa’s economic rise.
Chief Product Officer and Partner Jubril Gbajabiamila explained how Afretrade provides a secure space where African professionals and service providers can access global jobs, partnerships, and commerce opportunities without barriers.
One of the notable voices at the event, Prince Afolabi Andu, CEO of Africa Global Investment, described Africa as “the next frontier for global trade,” citing the continent’s natural advantages and youthful population.
Afretrade’s Principal Financial Advisor, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, also stressed the need for improved financial literacy and strategic planning to unlock long-term growth. Afretrade’s Chief Operating Officer Dr. Charly Lemassi praised the platform’s role in connecting Africa to trusted international trade and capacity-building programmes.
A key highlight was the panel discussion moderated by the MD/CEO of the Institute for Governance and Economic Transformation (IGET), Ms. Evelyn Dan Epelle, which was themed “From Brain Drain to Brain Circulation.” Panelists discussed how Africa can tap into the $500B global outsourcing industry by investing in digital skills, better infrastructure, and platforms like Afretrade that connect local talent to international clients.
Attendees described the session as timely, practical, and deeply relevant to Africa’s economic future.
The unveiling of Afretrade marked the event’s high point, with strategic partners from the UK, Canada, and Nigeria expressing strong support for the platform’s mission.
The evening concluded with networking, business pitches, and collaborative conversations showing that Afretrade is already sparking connections across countries and industries.
With its focus on skills, collaboration, and cross-border trade, Afretrade is positioning itself as Africa’s newest digital gateway to global opportunities and a powerful catalyst for the continent’s next economic chapter.
