London is stepping up its efforts to position itself as a key global hub for African businesses, a strategy that has culminated in over £30 million in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into the city from African companies since Mayor Sadiq Khan's trade mission to Africa in 2025. This investment milestone was announced on Thursday at the inaugural London-Africa Business Summit, an event hosted by the Mayor at City Hall.

The summit brought together more than 200 business leaders, investors, and policymakers from across Africa and the United Kingdom, aiming to strengthen economic relationships and uncover new trade opportunities. This gathering occurs as African economies command increasing global attention due to their expanding populations, growing consumer markets, and rising demand for infrastructure, technology, and financial services.

Speaking at the summit, Mayor Khan affirmed London's appeal for African companies seeking international expansion and access to global capital. He noted that the city's existing relationship with Africa is demonstrated by the 117 African companies currently listed on the London Stock Exchange, a figure he stated exceeds that of any other stock exchange globally.

“I am proud to host City Hall’s first ever London-Africa business Summit, bringing together investors, entrepreneurs and businesses to showcase London as the best city in the world for African companies to expand internationally and attract investment,” Khan said. “With more African companies listed on the London Stock Exchange than any other exchange, it is one of the most globally important growth regions. I am delighted that my African trade mission last year has encouraged both inward investment and outward expansion, creating jobs and further strengthening the links between us. I look forward to more opportunities developing from this Summit as we continue to build a better, more prosperous London for everyone.”

Echoing this sentiment, Mark Smithson, country director for the UK Department for Business and Trade in Nigeria and Anglo West Africa, highlighted the collaborative spirit of the event. Smithson stated, “The London-Africa Business Forum has brought together ambition, capital and creativity, reinforcing London’s role as a global gateway for African enterprise. As we look to the next chapter, we are deepening partnerships that drive sustainable growth, shared prosperity and long-term opportunity across both regions.” He added that in Nigeria, his department is working with key partners, businesses, and investors to generate investment, create jobs, and achieve tangible economic results.

Soren Nikolajsen, managing director of Industry Engagement Defence and Trade at Natwest, further emphasized London's enduring status as a leading destination for international investment. According to Nikolajsen, this is supported by the city's financial expertise and global connectivity. He described bringing together investors from across Africa in this manner as a valuable opportunity.