Against a backdrop of shifting trade alliances, technological disruption and a reordering of global economic power, African leaders, investors and policymakers will gather in London this October to debate one of the most pressing questions facing the continent: how to sustain growth in an increasingly uncertain global environment.
The 13th Financial Times Africa Summit, scheduled for 21-22 October at The Landmark London, will be held under the theme “Mobilising Growth in a New Global Order.” The event is expected to bring together heads of state, ministers, chief executives, financiers and entrepreneurs to explore how Africa can strengthen its position in the world economy while addressing long-standing development challenges.
The summit comes at a pivotal moment for Africa. Global trade patterns are being reshaped by geopolitical tensions, changing tariff regimes and the emergence of new economic partnerships. At the same time, advances in artificial intelligence, digital technologies and renewable energy are creating opportunities for countries able to adapt quickly to a rapidly evolving landscape.
For African governments and businesses, these shifts are prompting a renewed focus on regional integration, domestic capital mobilisation and economic resilience. The continent is increasingly looking inward through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area while simultaneously expanding commercial relationships with partners in the Gulf, China and India.
The agenda spans a wide range of issues shaping Africa’s economic future. Sessions will examine the mobilisation of domestic capital, the evolving role of development finance institutions, energy security, infrastructure investment and the growing importance of critical minerals in the global economy.
The discussions in London are expected to reflect this changing reality.
Among the high-profile speakers confirmed for the summit are Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote, former Senegalese President Macky Sall, former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, UK Minister of State for International Development and Africa Baroness Jennifer Chapman, Nigeria’s Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele, and Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide. They will be joined by ministers, investors and business leaders from across the continent, including representatives from South Africa, Angola, Rwanda, Côte d’Ivoire, Mauritius, Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The agenda spans a wide range of issues shaping Africa’s economic future. Sessions will examine the mobilisation of domestic capital, the evolving role of development finance institutions, energy security, infrastructure investment and the growing importance of critical minerals in the global economy.
Particular attention is expected to be paid to Africa’s digital transformation. The continent’s rapidly expanding technology sector has become a key driver of economic growth, attracting increasing levels of investment and positioning African entrepreneurs at the forefront of innovation. Policymakers and business leaders will discuss how technology can accelerate productivity, improve public services and support the development of new industries.
Another major theme will be Africa’s demographic advantage. By 2050, the continent is projected to have the world’s largest working-age population, creating enormous opportunities for economic expansion but also intensifying the need for job creation, skills development and investment in human capital. Analysts increasingly view Africa’s young population as one of its greatest strategic assets, provided governments can translate demographic growth into productive employment and entrepreneurship.
The summit will also explore how African nations can convert structural changes in the global economy into long-term prosperity. From offshore energy discoveries and manufacturing ambitions to urbanisation and climate resilience, participants will examine practical strategies for building competitive and diversified economies capable of withstanding external shocks.
According to Financial Times Africa Editor David Pilling, the summit has evolved into a key forum for discussions on the continent’s economic trajectory.
Financial Times Foreign Editor Alec Russell said the continent is navigating one of the most significant shifts in the global economic order in decades, making dialogue and collaboration more important than ever.
“Now in its 13th year, the FT Africa Summit brings together the leaders, investors and innovators shaping the continent’s economic future,” he said. “As Africa’s growth begins to outpace much of the world, this year’s agenda examines how governments and businesses can mobilise the capital, infrastructure and partnerships needed to translate that growth into lasting progress.”
Financial Times Foreign Editor Alec Russell said the continent is navigating one of the most significant shifts in the global economic order in decades, making dialogue and collaboration more important than ever.
The choice of London as host city reflects its continuing role as a major centre for global finance and international affairs. By bringing together policymakers, development institutions, investors and corporate leaders in one venue, the summit aims to connect African priorities with broader global conversations about trade, investment and economic partnership.
As international competition for resources, markets and influence intensifies, Africa’s economic significance continues to grow. The continent’s expanding population, abundant natural resources and increasing integration into global value chains mean that decisions taken today will have implications far beyond its borders.
The FT Africa Summit 2026 will seek to address that reality, providing a platform for leaders to exchange ideas, forge partnerships and chart a path towards sustainable growth in a world where economic and political certainties are rapidly being rewritten.
