UK Government Appoints Alastair Long to Lead Africa Trade Office

 The UK Government's Department for Business and Trade has announced the appointment of Alastair Long as His Majesty's Trade Commissioner (HMTC) for Africa.

In a statement issued on Monday, the British Deputy High Commission said Long would work closely with governments, investors, businesses and institutions across the continent to deepen economic ties between the UK and Africa. His responsibilities, according to the mission, will also include expanding commercial partnerships, supporting UK and African businesses, attracting investment, and helping to build sustainable, resilient and productive economies across the region.

"Long returns to a region he knows well, having previously served as Deputy Trade Commissioner and then HMTC for Africa between 2019 and 2022," the mission said, adding that before assuming his current role, he served as His Majesty's Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain from August 2023.

Speaking on his appointment, Long said he was thrilled to be returning to the continent in this new capacity, describing Africa as "the future" and pointing to the boundless energy and ambition he had witnessed during his previous assignments there.

"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," he said. "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."

Long takes over from John Humphrey, who has held the position since June 2022. Reflecting on his tenure, Humphrey described it as a privilege to have served as the UK Trade Commissioner for Africa, working with partners across the continent to build a relationship grounded in delivery, trust and shared economic ambition. He noted that Africa remains central to the UK's global outlook, offering significant opportunities for commercially grounded collaboration and sustainable growth.

For his part, Long inherits strong existing UK momentum in Africa and is expected to bring deep 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 works closely with the wider diplomatic network and other government colleagues to coordinate the UK's overseas efforts in promoting trade and prosperity.

The role also carries full responsibility for all Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST) activities in Africa, including growing the overall trade and investment relationship, improving market access for British companies — particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) — and shaping trade policy

Long's career with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office began in 2002, during which he held earlier postings across the Middle East and North Africa. His academic background includes studies at Clare College, Cambridge University, as well as the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.