George Steuart & Company recently participated in a series of high-level engagements organized by the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) in Africa during the latter part of 2025.
The engagements in Kenya took place in Nairobi in December, led by CWEIC Deputy Chairman Lord Swire. The visit included the Manufacturing Africa CEO Forum, hosted by Strategic Partner BDO East Africa; the Kenya International Advisory Council (KIAC) meeting; and the Equity Group Trade and Investment Roadshow. These events underscored Kenya’s strategic position as a gateway to over 500 million consumers across Eastern and Central Africa, with opportunities spanning digital trade, agribusiness, green industry, and SME growth. Representing George Steuart & Company were Group Chairman Mr. Sarva Ameresekere, and Chief Operating Officer and Director of Sales for George Steuart Teas, Mr. Dilukshan Fernando.
The CWEIC delegation to Nigeria was led by CWEIC Chairman, Lord Marland of Odstock. During this visit, the delegation met with His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor of Lagos State, at Lagos House, Marina. Discussions centered on development, innovation, and long-term investment partnerships aligned with Lagos’ status as Nigeria’s commercial hub. The delegation also engaged with banking and finance associations, retail industry groups, and other CWEIC Strategic Partners in Nigeria, highlighting the cross-sectoral nature of the program.
These activities emphasize CWEIC’s commitment to positioning Kenya and Nigeria as key partners for Commonwealth members seeking to expand their presence in Africa. The discussions were particularly relevant to George Steuart & Company, focusing on sectors such as tea, pharmaceuticals, FMCG, travel, and leisure. Their participation as a strategic partner of the CWEIC Global Advisory Council signifies the Group’s ongoing commitment to exploring opportunities beyond Sri Lanka. The Group remains optimistic about Africa’s potential and will continue to pursue available opportunities.
Left to Right: Sarva Ameresekere – Group Chairman of George Steuart and Company, Lord Marland of Odstock – Chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, Babajide Sanwo-Olu – Governor of Lagos State, M. Asif Chaudry – Robotic Cancer Surgeon of The Royal Marsden
CWEIC Deputy Chairman Lord Swire with the CWEIC delegation, alongside Dr. James Mwangi, CEO, and senior officials of Equity Group Holdings.
