The UK government’s Department for Business and Trade has welcomed Alastair Long as His Majesty’s trade commissioner for Africa.

In a statement on Monday, the British Deputy High Commission said Mr Long would work with governments, investors, businesses and institutions to deepen economic ties between the UK and Africa.

The mission added that Mr Long would also focus on expanding commercial partnerships, supporting UK and African businesses, attracting investment, and helping to build sustainable, resilient and productive economies across the continent.

“Long returns to a region he knows well, having previously served as Deputy Trade Commissioner and then HMTC for Africa between 2019 and 2022.

“Before taking up his current position, he served as His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain from August 2023,” the mission said in the statement.

Mr Long said he was thrilled to be taking up the position of His Majesty’s trade commissioner for Africa and returning to the continent.

He described Africa as the future, noting that he had seen the continent’s boundless energy and ambition during his previous assignments.

“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 said.

Mr Long replaces John Humphrey, who has held the role since June 2022.

Mr Humphrey said it had 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.

According to him, Africa is central to the UK’s global outlook, with significant opportunities for commercially grounded collaboration and sustainable growth.

Mr Long inherits strong UK momentum in Africa and will bring real depth of trade expertise, along with the focus and energy needed to deepen partnerships and unlock further opportunities for mutual benefit.

His Majesty’s trade commissioner leads the UK’s overseas efforts to promote trade, investment, export opportunities and trade policy objectives.

The commissioner cooperates closely with the wider diplomatic network and other colleagues to coordinate the government’s overseas efforts to promote UK trade and prosperity.

The trade commissioner also has full responsibility for all Departments for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST) work in Africa.

These include growing the overall trade and investment relationship, improving market access for British companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and developing trade policy.

Mr Long joined the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in 2002, after postings in the Middle East and North Africa.

He was educated at Clare College, Cambridge University, and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. 

(NAN)