The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its footprint in the Caribbean, hosting a high-level roadshow in The Bahamas aimed at strengthening trade, investment and economic ties between Africa and the region.

Held in Nassau on May 29 under the theme “Investing in progress through the implementation of the Afreximbank mandate in The Bahamas,” the event brought together government officials, business leaders, financial institutions and private sector representatives to explore new opportunities for collaboration.

The roadshow comes as Afreximbank moves forward with plans to deploy up to US$5 billion in financing across the Caribbean, including The Bahamas, following approval by its Board of Directors. The facility forms part of the bank’s broader Global Africa agenda, which seeks to strengthen commercial and financial links between Africa and the Caribbean.

Opening the event, Prime Minister Philip Davis said access to financing remains critical to ensuring economic growth benefits a wider cross-section of Bahamians.

“Economic growth must translate into broader economic participation, ensuring that more Bahamians have the chance to build businesses, create jobs and share in the country’s progress,” Davis said.

“We have made some progress in this area, but continuing to strengthen access to capital through institutions such as Afreximbank is an important part of our ongoing efforts.”

He added that the initiative highlighted the importance of international cooperation at a time when many economies are facing uncertainty.

During the event, Afreximbank officials outlined the financing, advisory and trade facilitation services available to Bahamian businesses and institutions while seeking to build stronger partnerships in the country.

Speaking at the roadshow, Kanayo Ihejirika said the bank has already made significant investments in The Bahamas since expanding its activities in the Caribbean.

“In less than three years of operations within CARICOM, Afreximbank has demonstrated a strong commitment to economic development in the region, especially in The Bahamas,” he said.

According to Ihejirika, the bank has facilitated approximately US$140 million in infrastructure financing through public-private partnership arrangements and provided an additional US$30 million in financing to support small and medium-sized enterprises.

He said the investments reflect Afreximbank’s goal of promoting sustainable growth, strengthening economic resilience and creating new opportunities for businesses and communities.

Other speakers at the event included Finance Minister Michael Halkitis, Grand Bahama Minister Ginger Moxey, businessman Atario Mitchell and Kino Simmons.