The Global Chamber on African Trade, Rights and Economic Development (GCATRED) was founded in recognition of the urgent need to establish a diplomatic and economic platform that champions Africa’s inclusive growth and rightful place in the global economy. GCATRED was established under the visionary leadership of Ambassador Emmanuel Amara Vandi Fomba from Sierra Leone, Founder and Global President; Dr. Herbert Mandla Mtowo from South Africa, Co Founder and Executive Vice President; and Ms. Farrana Kader from South Africa, Co-Founder and Secretary General. Together, they mobilized like-minded leaders, institutions, and partners across the continent and the world to create a chamber dedicated to Africa’s trade, rights, and sustainable economic development.

The foundation of GCATRED was inspired by Africa’s aspirations for self-reliance, equity, and transformation as articulated in the Constitutive Act of the African Union and Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want. The founders recognized that Africa’s wealth of natural resources, youthful population, and entrepreneurial energy must be matched with effective policies, global partnerships, and rights-based approaches to unlock the continent’s full potential.

From its inception, GCATRED positioned itself as more than just a chamber of commerce; it is a diplomatic and developmental institution that bridges Africa with the rest of the world. It seeks to create opportunities for fair and transparent trade, promote responsible investment—including in critical sectors such as mining, agriculture, energy, technology, tourism, and culture—and drive human capital development through education, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

Today, GCATRED stands as a testimony to the vision and leadership of its founders, carrying forward their mission to advance Africa’s trade, investment, and rights agenda, while reinforcing Africa’s voice and presence in the global economy.