The recently concluded 2025 African Ambassador’s Economic Forum (AAE Forum 2025), held on July 18–19 at the Westin Crystal City Hotel Pentagon in Washington, DC, proved to be a remarkable gathering dedicated to shaping Africa’s economic future.
His Excellency President Louis Mussington of Saint Martin delivered a keynote that resonated for its humility, sincerity, and unwavering moral clarity—an inspiring departure from typical ceremonial speeches. As Guest of Honor, President Mussington engaged the audience with a message rooted in moral conviction, emphasizing unity, shared responsibility, and genuine leadership.
This two-day event became a vibrant platform for strategic discussions, trade collaborations, cultural exchanges, and innovative ideas—all focused on Africa’s economic transformation and the importance of international cooperation. The forum’s success was driven by the forward-thinking leadership and collaborative spirit of the organizing bodies, primarily the Global Initiative for the Advancement of Africa (GIAA) and Hope Edge International, supported by other strategic partners. These organizations exemplified a steadfast commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue, pioneering innovation, and turning ideas into actionable initiatives.
At the heart of this Global impact are visionary leadership of
Dr. Utchay Odims, PhD, President and Co-Founder of Global initiativefor the Advancement of Africa(Giaa) and Dr. David James Egwu, MBA, PhD, Co-Founder & Managing Director of GIAA, whose leadership continues to inspire progress. Their dedication to ethical governance, Africa-centric development, and cross-border collaboration has positioned GIAA and African Ambassadors economic forum as a transformative force—empowering African entrepreneurs, attracting global investors, and elevating Africa’s influence in the world economy.
GIAA’s and AAE Forum impactful work is supported and driven by a distinguished team of global leaders and experts committed to the organization’s mission:
- H.E Dr. Jewel Tylor, immediate past Vice President of Liberia (Patron GIAA)
- Dr. Nelson Aluya, MD, MBBS – President, Hope Edge International (Co-convener AAE Forum)
- Dr. Ed Ilechukwu, PhD – Co-Founder and COO, GIAA
- Hon. Chief Ginika Tor, LLB, LLM – (Co-Chair, Advisory Board, GIAA)
- Prof. Mannixs Paul, PhD – Director, Global Mobilization Committee
- Prof. Mohamed G. Kafady, PhD.( Global ambassador GIAA)
- Ms. Nneka Obasi NIIC, senior community liaison Chicago mayor’s office of immigrant, migrant and refugee rights( Board Member, GIAA)
This team embodies the shared vision of an Africa that is not just rising, but leading—with integrity, innovation, and a clear global purpose.
One of the forum’s most memorable moments was President Louis Mussington’s keynote address. Unlike typical political speeches, his words reflected genuine humility, moral clarity, and a deep sense of responsibility. As a member of the African diaspora and a Caribbean leader of African descent, Mussington’s presence underscored the profound interconnectedness between African and Black communities worldwide, reinforcing pan-African solidarity.
His message was a heartfelt appeal for a human-centered approach to development—highlighting that true leadership is rooted in service, accountability, and compassion. He emphasized that sustainable growth begins with investing in people—particularly youth and women—who are often marginalized in decision-making processes. His call to “build people before we build nations” resonated deeply, inspiring attendees to prioritize education, innovation, and leadership development as catalysts for progress.
Mussington also challenged leaders to uphold fiscal discipline not through austerity, but through responsible stewardship and a shared vision for long-term prosperity. His modest delegation exemplified his principles—embodying accountability, transparency, and integrity in governance.
The forum’s opening featured an electric opening Remarks by Dr. Utchay Odims, PhD
President of the Global Initiative for the Advancement of Africa (GIAA) and co-convener of the African Ambassadors Economic Forum
Dr. Odims’ passion for Africa and its great potential to become a first world continent came alive during his speech, he Advocated for inspirational leadership and commitment to Africa-centered progress which set the tone and direction of the forum. His advocacy for principled leadership, ethical investment, and inclusive development continues to position GIAA as a catalyst for change across the continent.
Under his watch, GIAA champions the empowerment of African entrepreneurs, deepens global partnerships, and promotes values-based governance as the foundation of Africa’s transformation.
Dr utchay odims centered his charge on the 3 major issues; servant leadership,Value added trade and unity Amongst African Americans and Africa which got right will affects the positive growth and it will ultimately bring about Economic prosperity for the continent.
The next was a dynamic goodwill message from New York City’s Mayor Eric Adams, delivered virtually by himself and in person by Mr. Shaffiou Assoumanou, Director of Strategic Relations at the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs.
Highlighting New York’s role as a hub of diplomacy, innovation, and investment, Assoumanou encouraged African entrepreneurs and diaspora professionals to explore opportunities within the city. His remarks underscored the importance of strategic partnerships based on mutual respect and shared economic goals.
Ambassador Abubakar Jidda, Nigeria’s Consul General in New York, added a vital perspective—urging members of the African diaspora to go beyond remittances by actively investing in local businesses. His call for diaspora-led entrepreneurship aimed to create sustainable, scalable opportunities that benefit both their communities and the continent at large. Among the distinguished speakers were Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General, Assistant Administrator of the UNDP, and Director of the Regional Bureau for Africa, as well as MEP Petr Bystron, a Member of the European Parliament, H.E Hilda Suka-Mafudze; African Union Ambassadors to the United States, Mr. Armstrong Williams; American Media Mogul, Entrepreneur and Political Commentator, Tecla Muza Tawonezvi; Director of Marketing Westin Crystal City Hotel, Arlington DC, Amb. Mrs. Unyime Ivy King; Chairman Protection Plus security services, H.E Berhane G. Solomon; Charge de affair, the Eritrean Embassy, Nancy Hackett; CEO Pacific health Education, Aisha N. Braveboy; County Executive of Prince George’s County, Ms. Jan Duplain; CEO Du plain global enterprises inc., Dr. Melida Harris Barrow; CEO/President 6th Region Global Chambers of commerce, USA, WALA BLEGAY, Esq; Member, County Council, Prince George’s County and many other notable leaders.
Throughout the forum, participants delved into pressing economic issues, notably the challenge of cross-border financial transfers. Attendees highlighted how capital can easily exit African nations, yet foreign investors often face significant hurdles in repatriating profits—hindering investor confidence and long-term economic growth.
Her Excellency Bernadette Davis reaffirmed Saint Martin’s commitment to transparency and investor-friendly policies. She highlighted promising sectors such as infrastructure, energy, aviation, innovation, and capacity development, emphasizing that fair and balanced cooperation can unlock mutual prosperity. Her call to African governments was clear: reform financial regulations to create a more welcoming environment for foreign investment, transforming Africa from a passive recipient into a proactive partner in the global economy.
AAE Forum 2025 demonstrated that collaborative dialogue and shared purpose can catalyze meaningful change. The event not only fostered new partnerships and ideas but also reinforced a collective belief in Africa’s potential to lead with integrity and innovation. The inspiring messages, strategic insights, and genuine camaraderie left attendees motivated and equipped to turn vision into reality.
As the forum concluded, it became evident that the future of Africa depends on purposeful leadership rooted in humility, ethical governance, and a commitment to inclusive progress. The connections made and ideas exchanged during this landmark event promise to propel Africa’s economic journey toward a more prosperous, equitable, and globally influential future.
