Michael Gamwo has built a distinguished career as a leader in international trade and investment promotion, particularly focused on fostering relationships between South Africa’s Western Cape region and various countries across Africa.
Currently serving as the Head of Africa at Wesgro for the past 15 years, he also holds the prestigious role of Honorary Consul General of Ethiopia to Cape Town since 2023.
At Wesgro, Michael Gamwo’s primary objective is to drive growth and development in the Western Cape by facilitating trade and outward investment with countries across Africa. His portfolio includes countries such as Angola, Ethiopia, DRC, Gabon, Congo, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal, Mozambique, Kenya, and Rwanda.
Over the past five years alone, he has led approximately 300 South African businesses and investors on more than 50 trade missions throughout Africa. Additionally, he has orchestrated over 600 inward missions, connecting African business delegates and government officials with local South African companies to explore mutually beneficial opportunities.
Michael is renowned for his expertise in organizing Africa business networking forums, which serve as crucial platforms for fostering partnerships between South African enterprises and their African counterparts. His success in these initiatives is underscored by his ability to cultivate strategic alliances with companies, governments, international organizations, and NGOs operating across Africa.
In his role as Honorary Consul General of Ethiopia, Michael acts as the official representative of the Ethiopian Government in Cape Town. His responsibilities include building and maintaining trade, investment, tourism, and cultural relations between Cape Town, the Western Cape, and Ethiopia.
He also serves as a liaison between the Ethiopian community in Cape Town and the Ethiopian Embassy in Pretoria, in addition to handling relevant consular activities on behalf of the Ethiopian Government.
Prior to joining Wesgro, he held Export Manager positions at two Cape Town-based companies, where he played instrumental roles in expanding their market presence across African countries.
He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Master of Laws (LLM) degree from the University of Cape Town, and he is currently completing a Masters in Development Finance from the University of Stellenbosch.
Michael’s contributions to intra-African trade and investment promotion have been widely recognized, and he has been featured in numerous local and international business magazines and TV programs, including SABC, CNBC Africa, ETV, Ethiopian TV, Cameroon TV, and Nigerian TV.
His dedication and expertise continue to drive impactful economic engagement and cooperation between South Africa and the broader African continent.
Congratulations!!
