Now in its 12^th year, The Africa Debate has established itself as London's premier platform for African investment dialogue since launching in 2014, convening over 800 global decision-makers annually to shape the future of trade, finance, investment, and development across the continent. 

Under the theme “Redefining Partnership: Navigating a World in Transition”, this year's forum will focus on Africa's response to global economic realignment with greater agency, ambition and economic sovereignty. 

The Africa Debate puts Africa's priorities at the centre of the conversation, moving beyond traditional narratives to focus on ownership, resilience and long-term value creation. 

"Volatility is not new to Africa. What is changing is the opportunity to respond with greater agency and ambition," says Invest Africa CEO Chantelé Carrington. 

"This year's edition of The Africa Debate asks how we strengthen economic sovereignty — from access to capital and investment to financial and industrial policy — so African economies can take greater ownership of their growth. Success will be defined by how effectively we turn disruption into leverage and partnership into shared value."

The Africa Debate 2026 will provide a platform for this essential, era-defining discussion, convening leaders to explore how Africa and its partners can build more balanced, resilient and sustainable models of cooperation.

Key challenges driving the debate 

Core focus areas for this year’s edition of The Africa Debate include: 

Global Realignment & New Partnerships 

How shifting geopolitical and economic power structures are reshaping Africa's global partnerships, trade dynamics and investment landscape. 

Financing Africa's Future 

The growing need to reform the global financial architecture, new approaches to development finance, as well as the strengthening of market access and financial resilience of African economies in a changing global system. 

Strategic Value Chains 

Moving beyond primary exports to build local value chains in critical minerals for the green economy. Also addressing Africa's energy access gap and mobilising investment in renewable and transitional energy systems. 

Digital Transformation & Technology 

Unlocking growth in fintech, AI and digital infrastructure to drive productivity, inclusion, and the next phase of Africa's economic transformation. 

The Africa Debate 2026 offers a unique platform for high-level dialogue, deal-making, and strategic engagement. Attendees will gain actionable insights from leading policymakers, investors and business leaders shaping Africa's economic future, while building strategic partnerships that define the continent's next growth phase.

Registration is now open (http://apo-opa.co/46b19gj).