Dr. Prophet Edd Branson

“Beyond Borders: Positioning Botswana and Zimbabwe as the Preferred Gateway for Arab Investment into Southern Africa.”

Ambassador Dr. Edd Branson is an entrepreneur, angel investor, businessman, philanthropist, and international trade and investment advocate. He serves as Chairman of the Afri-USA Business Initiative and Principal Trade and Investment Advisor to the Gambia–Zimbabwe Chamber of Commerce, with extensive experience in promoting investment, cross-border trade, and economic partnerships across Africa and beyond. His business interests span sectors including agriculture, mining, manufacturing, financial services, construction, aviation, and retail. At this year’s Hybrid Business Conference, he will deliver a keynote address under the topic: “Beyond Borders: Positioning Botswana and Zimbabwe as the Preferred Gateway for Arab Investment into Southern Africa.” His keynote will explore how Botswana and Zimbabwe can leverage their strategic geographical position, strengthen regional cooperation, and attract greater investment from the United Arab Emirates and the wider Arab region. The session will also highlight Francistown’s potential to become a strategic trade, logistics, and investment corridor connecting Southern Africa with global markets. As the Conference brings together government leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, corporates, financial institutions, policymakers, and development partners, Dr. Branson’s presentation will provide practical insights into attracting international capital, building strategic partnerships, and accelerating regional economic transformation.