The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (http://www.ITFC-idb.org) is proud to announce that its Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol has been recognized as the Islamic Finance Personality of the Year Award 2023 by the Global Islamic Finance Award (GIFA). The prestigious award ceremony took place in Dakar, Senegal, and was presided over by H.E Macky Sall, President of the Republic of Senegal, alongside high-level officials, and industry leaders. Every year, the GIFA Awards Committee recognizes institutions and individuals from around the world for their exceptional contributions to the development of Islamic banking and finance.

Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol was bestowed with this remarkable honor in recognition of his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to ethical financial practices, promoting global economic growth, and upholding the principles of Islamic finance.

Upon receiving the award, Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol expressed his gratitude, stating, "It is an immense honor to receive the Islamic Finance Personality of the Year Award 2023. This recognition underscores the collective efforts of our dedicated team at the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation. We remain committed to ethical financial practices that foster global economic growth while staying true to the principles of Islamic finance. This award is a testament to our unwavering mission to drive positive change, promote inclusivity, and cultivate innovation within the industry. I am grateful for the support of our partners, stakeholders, and the entire Islamic finance community as we continue to chart a path toward a more prosperous and equitable future."

Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol reflected on the ITFC journey and its mission to be a catalyst for trade finance and trade development among OIC member countries and beyond. He highlighted the Corporation's remarkable achievement of providing more than US$70 billion in trade financing since its commencement of business in 2008, supporting key strategic sectors such as agriculture, energy, healthcare, SMEs, and women-owned businesses using Shariah-compliant financing methods.

Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol emphasized ITFC's holistic approach to making an impact on the lives of people in OIC member countries, combining trade finance with trade development interventions, and investing in programs designed to meet the unique development needs of OIC member countries. He acknowledged the countless individuals and organizations empowered by ITFC's initiatives to thrive in the global economy.

Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol declared, "As we look to the future, we are committed to expanding our reach, deepening our impact, and continuing to serve as a catalyst for economic growth and development on our journey of advancing trade and improving lives."

Founded in 2011, GIFA celebrates the achievements of individuals, institutions, and governments in promoting and advocating Islamic banking and finance and ensuring that it remains committed to social responsibility. As the most prestigious award in Islamic finance, GIFA promotes social responsibility, Shari'ah authenticity, and commitment to Islamic banking and finance.