His Excellency Prof. Hugh K. Aryee, internationally recognized business leader, diplomat, financial technology entrepreneur, Founder & Group Chief Executive Officer of Hanypay, is scheduled to speak at the prestigious AfriCanada Expo 2026, taking place from June 10–12, 2026, at the Wyndham Edmonton Hotel and Conference Centre in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Culled from his Facebook wall, The three-day international expo is expected to bring together policymakers, investors, technology innovators, business executives, development partners, academics, and members of the African diaspora from across the globe to explore opportunities for trade, investment, innovation, and economic cooperation between Africa and Canada.
Prof. Aryee will deliver a keynote presentation on the theme: “Creating Borderless Markets: The Rise of Integrated African Digital Economies”.
His presentation will examine how emerging digital technologies are reshaping Africa’s economic landscape by enabling greater connectivity, expanding financial inclusion, facilitating cross-border trade, and creating new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs across the continent.
Drawing on his extensive experience in financial technology, digital commerce, and international economic development, Prof. Aryee is expected to highlight the growing importance of interoperable payment systems, digital marketplaces, and technology-driven financial ecosystems in accelerating Africa’s integration into the global digital economy.
The discussion will further explore how innovative platforms are helping to reduce traditional barriers to commerce, improve access to financial services, strengthen participation by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and enhance economic opportunities for underserved communities.
As Founder of Hanypay, Prof. Aryee is expected to share insights from the company’s work in developing digital payment infrastructure, digital commerce solutions, and cross-border transaction capabilities designed to support businesses operating within increasingly interconnected markets.
The presentation will also address key considerations surrounding regulatory innovation, digital trust, consumer protection, cybersecurity, and responsible technology adoption as African economies continue their digital transformation journeys.
According to organizers, AfriCanada Expo 2026 will feature a series of high-level discussions covering digital transformation, investment promotion, sustainable development, innovation ecosystems, entrepreneurship, diaspora engagement, and strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening economic relations between Africa and North America.
The event is expected to attract participation from government officials, municipal leaders, private sector executives, development institutions, technology companies, investors, and business associations seeking to foster greater collaboration between Canadian and African markets.
Among the distinguished leaders expected to participate are His Worship Andrew Knack, Mayor of Edmonton, Canada, and His Worship Jon Kramer, Mayor of Westlock, Canada, alongside other representatives from municipal, governmental, and international organizations.
Prof. Aryee’s participation is anticipated to contribute significantly to ongoing conversations surrounding Africa’s digital future and the role that innovation can play in unlocking economic growth, promoting financial inclusion, and supporting sustainable development across the continent.
The AfriCanada Expo continues to serve as an important platform for dialogue, partnership-building, and knowledge exchange, bringing together stakeholders committed to creating stronger economic bridges between Africa, Canada, and the wider international community.
As digital technologies increasingly shape global commerce and finance, the event provides a timely opportunity to examine how collaborative innovation, strategic partnerships, and inclusive digital ecosystems can help drive long-term prosperity and shared economic growth.
Story by: Kekeli K. Blamey
