George Steuart & Company participated in a series of high-level engagements in Africa during the latter part of 2025, organised by the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), as part of its ongoing efforts to explore trade and expansion opportunities beyond Sri Lanka.
In Kenya, the engagements were held in Nairobi in December and were led by CWEIC Deputy Chairman, Lord Swire. The programme included participation in the Manufacturing Africa CEO Forum hosted by CWEIC Strategic Partner BDO East Africa, the Kenya International Advisory Council (KIAC) meeting, and the Equity Group Trade and Investment Roadshow. These engagements underscored Kenya’s strategic position as a gateway to more than 500 million consumers across Eastern and Central Africa, with growth opportunities spanning digital trade, agribusiness, green industry and SME development.
George Steuart & Company was represented at the Kenya engagements by Group Chairman Mr. Sarva Ameresekere, together with Mr. Dilukshan Fernando, Chief Operating Officer and Director – Sales of George Steuart Teas.
The CWEIC delegation to Nigeria was led by its Chairman, Lord Marland of Odstock. During the visit, the delegation met with His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor of Lagos State, at Lagos House, Marina. Discussions focused on development, innovation and long-term investment partnerships aligned with Lagos’ role as Nigeria’s primary commercial hub. The delegation also held discussions with banking and finance associations, retail industry groups and other CWEIC Strategic Partners in Nigeria, reflecting the broad, cross-sectoral scope of the programme.
These engagements highlight CWEIC’s commitment to positioning Kenya and Nigeria as key partners for Commonwealth businesses seeking to expand their presence in Africa. The discussions aligned closely with George Steuart & Company’s sectoral interests, including tea, pharmaceuticals, FMCG, travel and leisure.
George Steuart & Company’s participation as a strategic partner of the CWEIC Global Advisory Council reflects the Group’s continued commitment to exploring international growth opportunities. The Group remains optimistic about Africa’s long-term potential and will continue to actively pursue avenues for trade, investment and collaboration across the continent.