The 2026 edition of the Africa CEO Forum is expected to place strong emphasis on how African economies and enterprises can move from fragmented growth to large-scale competitiveness. The high-level gathering scheduled for May 14-15 in Kigali, is expected to convene about 2,800 participants, including heads of state, chief executives, investors and policymakers from over 70 countries. ALSO READ: Rwandan firms eye deals at Africa CEO Forum Organisers describe the forum as the largest international meeting dedicated to Africa’s private sector, positioning it as a platform where decision-makers engage not only in dialogue but also in investment discussions and partnerships. The fourth edition is themed “Scale or Fail: Why Africa Must Embrace Shared Ownership?” ALSO READ: Four presidents to attend Africa CEO Forum Discussions are expected to examine how African businesses can grow beyond domestic markets and operate at regional and continental levels with greater efficiency and competitiveness. At the centre of this conversation is the structural challenge of fragmentation, where nonharmonised regulations, infrastructure and market access continue to limit cross-border expansion. ALSO READ: Africa CEO Forum drives accommodation demand across Kigali The Forum’s agenda places strong emphasis on mobilising capital to support large-scale enterprise growth. This includes aligning public policy frameworks with private sector investment to enable expansion in key sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, energy, agriculture and digital services. A defining feature of the platform is its public-private structure, which brings government leaders and investors into direct engagement on investment priorities, reforms and financing models. A significant part of the discussions is expected to focus on regional economic integration. The objective is to explore how African economies can reduce trade barriers, harmonise regulations and improve connectivity to support larger, more efficient markets. While policy discussions form a core part of the forum, its design also prioritises deal-making and investment facilitation. Participants engage in structured meetings, investment pitches and partnership discussions alongside formal sessions. ALSO READ: Africa CEO Forum, rare opportunity for private sector - RDB CEO This dual structure is intended to bridge the gap between strategic dialogue and practical economic outcomes, particularly in sectors where scale is essential for competitiveness. Panel discussions will focus on key sectors including energy and gas development, industrial transformation and smart manufacturing, logistics and supply chain systems, mining, digital economy and technology infrastructure. Also on the agenda is talent development, green energy, the growing sports economy, real estate and agriculture, among others. The Forum Awards will also return as part of the programme, recognising companies and leaders contributing to Africa’s economic growth and transformation agenda. The awards highlight excellence across key categories such as leadership, investment impact, innovation, business growth, and contribution to sustainable development.
