The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) and the technological competition between the United States and China is increasingly shaping the geopolitical chessboard of the 21^st century. For countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, AI diplomacy is emerging as a cornerstone of their foreign policy, enabling them to transition from oil-dependent economies to diversified, technology-driven global players. Yet, this shared ambition is also sparking regional competition between the two Gulf nations, as each seeks to establish itself as the dominant AI hub in the Middle East. Trump’s victory in the recent U.S. presidential elections portends a more protectionist foreign policy, which could further complicate this regional rivalry by prompting both nations to recalibrate their AI strategies in the face of intensified U.S.-China tech competition.

Green hydrogen, often called the fuel of the future, offers a zero-emission solution for decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors and is becoming a cornerstone of global energy strategy. As the clean energy transition accelerates, regions rich in renewables—particularly the Gulf, Europe, and Africa—are competing to lead in green hydrogen production. This race underscores its transformative potential to diversify energy portfolios and cut emissions. However, turning this promise into reality requires overcoming challenges in cost, infrastructure, and market demand.

Botho, in partnership with African Business magazine, the AfCFTA Secretariat, Afreximbank, AUDA-NEPAD, the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation, and the International Trade Centre, is pleased to announce the launch of the fourth edition of the annual PAFTRAC Africa CEO Trade Survey Report for 2024.

This year's report, based on insights from business leaders across the continent, reflects growing optimism about Africa's trade growth prospects despite global economic challenges. It highlights the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to unlock Africa's trade opportunities while identifying critical areas for support, including access to information, financing, and infrastructure development. The report also underscores the importance of enhanced collaboration between the private sector, trade finance institutions, and policymakers to address these challenges and fully realize the benefits of the AfCFTA.