The United Kingdom has appointed Alastair Long as its new His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for Africa, tasking him with strengthening trade and investment relations between Britain and the continent and opening up new commercial opportunities for businesses on both sides.
Long formally assumed the role under the UK Department for Business and Trade on Monday, 7th of September 2026. He succeeds John Humphrey, who served as UK Trade Commissioner for Africa from June 2022.
Long returns to the continent with previous experience in the role, having served first as Deputy Trade Commissioner and later as His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa between 2019 and 2022. His reappointment signals continuity in the UK’s approach to African markets as it seeks to expand post-Brexit trade links and support British exporters, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.
As HMTC for Africa, Long will be responsible for the UK’s trade and investment engagement across the continent, including growing the overall trade and investment relationship, improving market access for British companies and developing trade policy. He will work with African governments, investors, businesses and institutions to expand commercial partnerships, attract investment and promote sustainable economic growth.
The appointment comes as African economies, including Nigeria, intensify efforts to attract foreign investment, boost exports and secure greater access to international markets. Long’s mandate includes coordinating the UK’s efforts with British ambassadors and the wider diplomatic network to promote trade, investment and economic prosperity across Africa.
The UK government has framed the move as part of a broader strategy to deepen economic partnerships with Africa, focusing on sectors such as energy, infrastructure, technology and financial services. Officials say stronger trade ties will benefit both British businesses seeking growth opportunities and African countries looking to diversify their economies and create jobs.
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