BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA) — The inaugural “Trade with Africa Business Summit” kicked off Thursday in Bentonville.

Global leaders, trade experts and policy representatives of several African countries are in Northwest Arkansas to engage U.S. businesses to accelerate economic growth for both regions.

“We’re trying to say, ‘Take a look at the continent of Africa with 54 countries,'” said Toyin Umesiri, CEO of Nazaru for the Trade with Africa. “The same engagement with China, Latin America, India that this community does really well. We’re just saying, take a look at Africa. There’s incredible commercial opportunities on the continent.” 

The event continues Friday at the Four Points by Sheraton in Bentonville from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.