This year’s U.S. Africa Business Summit, held from June 22 to 25, brought together more than 2,700 leaders from across both continents, including 12 African heads of state, and closed with over 2.5 billion dollars in new deals that could reshape Africa’s economic landscape.

Hosted by the Corporate Council on Africa alongside Angola’s President, the event stood out for its record attendance and a clear message that the future of U.S. Africa relations lies in partnerships focusing on trade and investment rather than aid. 

Among the deals was a U.S.-led project to build 22 grain silo terminals along Angola’s Lobito Corridor. Supported by the U.S. Export-Import Bank, this initiative aims to shore up Angola’s food security and streamline its agricultural supply chain.

In Angola, technology also took center stage. A 170 million dollar investment between U.S. firm Cybastion and Angola Telecom promises to upgrade digital infrastructure and boost cybersecurity, helping the nation leapfrog into a more connected and secure digital future.

Sierra Leone is also set to benefit from a groundbreaking energy project. West Africa’s first U.S.-sourced LNG terminal, spearheaded by CEC Africa Sierra Leone Ltd. and backed by the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, will power the Nant Power Project.

On top of that, the Ruzizi III Holding Power Company signed an Invitation to Partner with U.S.-based Anzana Electric Group, aiming to provide reliable electricity to some 30 million people, fueling economic growth and closer regional ties.

Ethiopia has also welcomed a 200 million dollar boost in luxury tourism infrastructure with  a partnership between Ethiopia Investment Holdings and U.S. International Finance Partners.