Partnership for Economic Growth and Job Creation

"Partnership for Economic Growth and Job Creation"

Wednesday, October 15  |  1:00-7:00 P.M.
6th Floor, Elliott School of International Affairs

Register

Join us for a high-level discussion on the future of economic partnerships in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This exclusive event brings together key government officials, private sector leaders, and international experts to explore new opportunities, innovations, and the realities of investing in the DRC's key economic sectors.

The George Washington University and US/UK-Africa Business Council are hosting a conference bringing together members of the African diaspora, ministers, private sector CEOs, technology leaders, multilateral organizations, and academics. Discussions will focus on the areas of sustainable development, job creation, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and infrastructure, exploring their applications in national and regional economies. Attendees will also benefit from networking to foster collaboration among policymakers, practitioners, academics and thought leaders committed to advancing Africa's progress.

Confirmed Speakers
Participant list is still being updated.

• Şevin Yeltekin, Dean, George Washington University School of Business
• Dr. Serge Tshibangu, Managing Director, US/UK-Africa Business Council 
• Paul Hinks, CEO and Co-Founder, Symbion Power
• Dr. Djordjija Petkoski, Lecturer and Senior Fellow, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania
• Hervé Claude Ntumba Batukonke, Director General, DR Congo Industrial Promotion Fund (FPI)
• Gillian Marcelle, CEO and Founder, Resilience Capital Ventures LLC
• Dagmawit Moges Bekele, Director, Secretariat African Union Peace Fund
• Andrew Brown, CEO, Canmore Capital
• Dr. Danny Leipziger, Former Vice President, World Bank; Managing Director, Growth Dialogue; Professor, GW Business School
• H.E. Louis Kabumba Watum, Minister of Mining, DRC
• Don Christensen, Executive Chairman, InvestBank Corp.
• Evan Musolino, Managing Director of Critical Minerals, U.S. Development Finance Corporation (DFC)
• H.E. Dr. Kamba Mulanda, Minister of Public Health, Hygiene, and Prevention
• Aisha Bond, President, Greater Washington Black Chamber of Commerce 
• Hon. O. Felix Obi, U.S. Trade Representative, Executive Office of the United States President 
• Tam Robert Nguyen, President & General Manager, Bechtel Impact Infrastructure
• Colonel C. Derek Campbell (Ret.) - Chairman, LVC Global Holdings Ltd 
• H.E. Julien Paluku Kahongya, Minister of External Commerce, DRC 
• Nina Albert, Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development 

Agenda

More information to follow.

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM | Welcome and Opening Remarks

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | Charting a New Course: Governance, Finance, and the Future of DRC Partnerships
A high-level dialogue on the new economic trajectory of the DRC, exploring the core principles guiding private sector engagement.

2:30 PM – 3:00 PM | Unlocking the Future: A Private Sector Guide to Investing in the DRC
Strategic briefing for investors on fiscal reforms, regulatory frameworks, and investment opportunities in the DRC.

3:00 PM – 3:45 PM | Private Sector Perspectives on Investing in the DRC – Part I
Insights from global business leaders on the DRC investment landscape, innovations, and practical realities.

3:45 PM – 4:30 PM | Private Sector Perspectives on Investing in the DRC – Part II
Continuation focusing on emerging sectors, infrastructure, logistics, and regional trade opportunities.

4:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Closing Remarks: “The DRC is Open for Business”
A forward-looking address on the partnership between the DRC, private sector investors, and the US/UK-Africa Business Council.

5:00 PM – 5:30 PM | MOU Signing Ceremony
Formal signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) between the DC government and the US/UK-Africa Business Council to mutually strengthen Washington D.C., the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Africa, with a focus on increasing economic opportunities.

5:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Networking Cocktail Reception
Hors d’oeuvres and networking for all participants.

Sponsoring Organizations

About the US/UK Africa DRC Business Council

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is central to the 21st-century global economy, presenting a generational opportunity for sustainable development and industrial innovation. Its vast reserves of strategic minerals, immense hydropower potential, and dynamic population are the cornerstones of a prosperous future. The key to unlocking this potential is a forward-thinking model of investment—one focused on building local value, creating sustainable jobs, and fostering long-term industrial capacity, paving a clear pathway for inclusive growth. The US/UK Africa DRC Business Council is the catalyst for this new era of partnership. As a trusted strategic partner, we guide global corporations and institutions to amplify their impact and achieve success. By leveraging deep local knowledge and extensive networks, we connect credible international partners with vetted Congolese leaders and high-performing enterprises. Together, we are driving responsible investment to help build a thriving. DRC recognized worldwide as a hub of innovation and shared opportunity.