More than 2,500 global business leaders, investors, and policymakers will gather in Rwanda for high-level discussions on investment, industrial growth, and Africa’s economic future.
The Africa CEO Forum 2026 returns in 2026, bringing together more than 2,500 CEOs, investors, policymakers, and global business leaders for two days of high-level dialogue, strategic partnerships, and deal-making. Recognised as Africa’s largest private sector gathering, the Forum continues to serve as a major platform where influential decision-makers come together to shape the future of business and investment across the continent.
Scheduled to take place in Kigali, Rwanda, on 14–15 May 2026, this year’s edition comes at a time when global competition for capital is intensifying and African economies are seeking new pathways for sustainable growth and industrial expansion.
Through a series of executive dialogues, sector-focused discussions, policy conversations, and networking engagements, participants will explore how Africa can unlock new investment opportunities, strengthen regional trade, and enhance the continent’s competitiveness in the global economy.
Key discussions are expected to focus on agricultural self-sufficiency, financial innovation, digital transformation, industrial development, and infrastructure growth — all viewed as critical pillars for building long-term economic resilience and accelerating private sector-led growth across Africa.
The Forum also continues to emphasise the importance of stronger collaboration between governments and businesses in addressing economic challenges and attracting investment into strategic sectors.
At the 2025 edition held in Abidjan, the Forum convened public and private sector leaders under the theme “Can a New Deal Between State and Private Sector Deliver the Continent a Winning Hand?” Discussions focused on strengthening public-private cooperation to advance sustainable development and improve Africa’s economic competitiveness.
For business leaders, the Africa CEO Forum provides an opportunity to build strategic partnerships, explore emerging markets, and engage directly with investors and policymakers. For investors, the event offers access to high-growth sectors and a pipeline of potential investment opportunities across the continent.
Over the course of two days, participants will exchange insights on emerging economic trends, engage in high-level networking, and contribute to conversations shaping Africa’s economic future.
Source: International Finance Corporation
