UK sends new commissioner to strengthen trade, investment with Africa

Alastair Long has assumed his role as the new His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for Africa, marking the formal commencement of the UK’s trade and investment relationship with the continent. According to a statement by the UK High Commission in Nigeria, Alastair will collaborate with governments, investors, businesses, and institutions to strengthen economic ties between the UK and Africa.

His responsibilities encompass expanding commercial partnerships, supporting UK and African businesses, attracting investment, and fostering the development of sustainable, resilient, and productive economies across the continent.

Alastair Long brings extensive experience to his new position. He has previously served as Deputy Trade Commissioner and then HM Trade Commissioner for Africa from 2019 to 2022. Prior to this, he served as His Majesty’s Ambassador to Bahrain from August 2023. Since joining the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in 2002, Alastair has held various postings in the Middle East and North Africa, including roles as Deputy Trade Commissioner for the Middle East, Director of Trade & Investment for Saudi Arabia, Regional Director for Trade for the Middle East, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, and Deputy Consul General.

He also worked in Muscat as Deputy Ambassador and HM Consul General between 2013 and 2015. Alastair holds a degree from Clare College, Cambridge University, and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.

In his statement regarding the deployment, Alastair expressed his enthusiasm for the role and Africa’s potential. He highlighted the UK’s commitment to supporting African growth and prosperity by aligning with African priorities and offering the best the UK has to offer. Alastair looks forward to engaging with the UK business community and the UK Government to realize maximum mutual opportunities.

John Humphrey, who previously held the role from June 2022 until his replacement, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with partners across the continent. He emphasized the UK’s global outlook, which places significant focus on Africa with its promising commercial prospects and sustainable growth opportunities. Humphrey wished Alastair every success as he embarked on this crucial role.

As a Her Majesty’s Trade Commissioner, Alastair will spearhead the UK’s efforts to promote trade, investment, export opportunities, and trade policy while cooperating closely with the broader diplomatic network and other colleagues to coordinate the government’s trade and prosperity objectives in Africa.