Africa’s economic landscape is undergoing a major shift with the election of Éliane Munkeni, vice-president of the Congo Business Federation (FEC), as third vice-president of the Common Market for Eastern Africa and South Africa (COMESA) at the recent 11th Annual General Assembly. This appointment marks a turning point for the Democratic Republic of Congo and demonstrates its growing place on the regional scene.
COMESA, through its newly elected Board of Directors, thus equips itself with qualified and committed representatives to strengthen economic and commercial cooperation within the region. Alongside other prominent members such as Melaku Ezezew, Issa Sekitto, Tinashe Manzungu, Namita Jagarnath Hardowar and Sherif El Gabaly, Éliane Munkeni will bring her expertise and vision to promote sustainable and inclusive development.
Under the leadership of Secretary-General Chileshe Mpundu, COMESA is showing promising results with a notable recovery in global and regional trade, even surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The figures speak for themselves, with a significant increase in COMESA exports to the world and within the community, testifying to the resilience and dynamism of economic actors in the region.
This election marks a further step towards economic integration and the strengthening of trade in Africa, opening new prospects for growth and prosperity for all COMESA member nations. The commitment of new members of the Board of Directors, including Éliane Munkeni, suggests a promising future for strengthened cooperation and thriving regional economies.
In short, this appointment testifies to the vitality and potential of Africa to resolutely commit to the path of economic development and regional integration, under the leadership of visionary and committed leaders.