After a quarter-century of favorable macroeconomic conditions, Africa finds itself at a pivotal juncture, grappling with shifting geopolitical fault lines, climate challenges, and the disruptive force of artificial intelligence (AI). Against this backdrop, the 11th annual Africa CEO Forum, slated for May 16th and 17th in Kigali, presents a critical opportunity for the continent to shape its future trajectory.
Led by business leaders, CEOs, investors, and policymakers, the forum will delve into four key transformative agendas aimed at addressing pressing issues and charting a course towards sustainable growth and prosperity.
Leadership Agenda
The forum will explore governance models to unify Africa’s voice on the global stage amid widespread governance crises and a disregard for continental leadership. With imminent transitions at the African Union (AU) and the African Development Bank (AfDB), discussions will focus on ushering in a new era of business-friendly public policies across the continent.
Digital Agenda
Amid the global AI race, Africa’s position in the digital landscape will be scrutinized, with a focus on strengthening tech ecosystems to become a global hub for innovation and talent. Investments in digital infrastructure and cybersecurity will be crucial to safeguarding the continent’s digital future, particularly in light of increasing cyberattacks targeting corporate Africa.
Integration Agenda
Efforts to establish the Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a robust common market will be explored, along with strategies to challenge trade obstacles through cross-border projects. Harmonizing standards for sustainable African trade will drive economic integration and unlock the continent’s vast potential, fostering inclusive growth and prosperity.
Financing Agenda
Opportunities for Africa’s financial sector amid the retreat of international finance will be examined, with a focus on unlocking funds for sustainable growth without exacerbating the debt burden. Creative financing instruments will be explored, alongside discussions on the role of investors in fueling Africa’s growth trajectory.
Over the course of two days, the forum will feature more than 60 panel discussions, workshops, and roundtables, covering a wide range of topics including:
- Fair Climate Transition: Africa’s Stance in a Post-COP28 World
- Food Security: Building Climate-Resilient Agriculture Systems in Africa
- Family Businesses and Entrepreneurship: Secrets to Continuity
- Big Tech & Telcos: Splitting the Bill on Digital Infrastructure
- Finding the Perfect Balance: Achieving Innovation-Friendly Regulation
- Can Africa Become a Champion of Artificial Intelligence?
- Could AI be a Decarbonization Gamechanger for African Business?
- AfCFTA: Scaling Intra-African Trade in a Decisive Decade
- African Airlines: Could Mega-Alliances Help Profits Take Off?
- Harmonizing Standards for Sustainable African Trade
From exploring the business of sports and tourism to boosting pharmaceutical production through regional hubs, the summit will provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration on shaping Africa’s new future.
With Africa’s diverse comparative advantages, including strong demographic growth, natural resources, and a burgeoning consumer market, the continent has the potential to emerge as a global economic powerhouse.
By harnessing innovation, fostering integration, and mobilizing financing, the Africa CEO Forum aims to propel Africa towards a future defined by prosperity, resilience, and inclusive growth.
Click below to learn more about the forum program and register to attend.
