Windhoek, Oct 25 – Namibia takes center stage on the global business map as it hosts the landmark 10th Anniversary Leaders Without Borders (LWB) Annual Business Summit and International Honors from 23 – 25 October 2025 at the Hilton Hotel in Windhoek. Themed “Eliminating Intra-African Trade Barriers: Strengthening Policy Reforms & Strategic Execution Models for Africa’s Economic Growth,” this flagship event attracts over 250 leading figures, from policymakers and entrepreneurs to investors, representing more than 65 countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The summit commenced with an engaging welcome cocktail and networking session, setting the tone for three days of insightful panel discussions, keynote speeches, and dynamic business pitches. The agenda centers on accelerating economic transformation across African priority sectors, including energy, technology, infrastructure, transport, oil and gas, and mining. At the same time, the event celebrates African innovation and entrepreneurship on the international stage.
A highlight of the summit is the prestigious International Honors Awards, recognizing the Top 50 Emerging Businesses in Africa for outstanding entrepreneurial and innovative achievements. The event draws corporate delegations, government officials, and institutional investors, providing a unique platform for forging investment partnerships, policy dialogues, and showcasing Namibia’s burgeoning role as a strategic regional hub in green hydrogen, mining, logistics, and sustainable tourism.
Keynote speaker Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, the fourth President of Namibia, emphasized the imperative of continental economic integration in his address titled “Africa Beyond Borders: Building an Integrated Continental Economy.” He underscored the need for African entrepreneurs and investors to lead the charge in developing strong regional value chains by processing raw materials, manufacturing locally, and creating competitive African brands for global markets. Dr. Mbumba highlighted the COVID-19 pandemic as a critical lesson to build self-reliance, resilience, and innovation through enhanced intra-African production and trade.
Namibia’s commitment to Pan-African unity and economic integration remains unwavering, demonstrated through active participation in the African Union, SADC, and other regional bodies focused on cooperation and sustainable development. Dr. Mbumba called on all stakeholders in government, business, and civil society to unite in advancing Africa’s economic potential and global influence.
As Namibia celebrates this milestone anniversary of the Leaders Without Borders Development Centre, the summit sends a powerful message: the nation is well-positioned to be a cornerstone of Africa’s next phase of economic growth and international collaboration, supported by its political stability and investor-friendly environment.
The 10th Anniversary Leaders Without Borders Summit not only shines a global spotlight on Namibia but also reinforces the continent’s collective journey toward economic integration, innovation, and prosperity. The summit concludes with optimism for fruitful collaborations and sustained success across Africa and beyond.
Reporter: Martha Jeremia
