Alastair Long has taken up his duties as His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, officially assuming leadership of the UK’s trade and investment activities across the continent.
The UK High Commission in Nigeria announced on Monday that Mr Long will collaborate with governments, investors, businesses and institutions to strengthen bilateral economic ties between the United Kingdom and Africa.
In his new role he will concentrate on expanding commercial partnerships, supporting both UK and African enterprises, attracting investment and fostering sustainable, resilient and productive economies throughout the region.
Mr Long returns to a region where he has prior experience, having served as Deputy Trade Commissioner and subsequently as HM Trade Commissioner for Africa from 2019 to 2022.
Speaking about his latest deployment, Alastair said, “I am thrilled to be taking up the position of His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa and returning to the continent. Africa is the future, and I saw, when deputy and then acting Trade Commissioner, what boundless energy and ambition the continent possesses. The UK is committed to being a partner that supports African and British growth by listening to African priorities and bringing the very best the UK has to offer. I look forward to engaging across the continent, with the UK business community, and with the UK Government team, to realise as many mutual opportunities as possible.”
He succeeds John Humphrey, who has held the post since June 2022.
Humphrey said, “It has been a privilege to serve as the UK Trade Commissioner for Africa and to work with partners across the continent to strengthen a relationship grounded in delivery, trust and shared economic ambition.”
Africa is central to the UK’s global outlook, with significant opportunities for commercially grounded collaboration and sustainable growth. Alastair Long inherits strong UK momentum in Africa, and will bring real depth of trade expertise and the focus and energy needed to deepen partnerships and unlock further opportunities for mutual benefit. I wish him every success as he takes on this important role.
His Majesty’s Trade Commissioners lead the UK’s overseas trade promotion, investment advocacy, export opportunities and policy objectives, working closely with the diplomatic network and other colleagues to coordinate government efforts that advance UK trade and prosperity.
