The Forward Africa Leaders Symposium (FALS) Global Conversations 2026 was held in New York, bringing together senior leaders from government, development finance institutions, commercial banking, and the private sector. The event was convened in partnership with the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) under the theme “Building the Next Frontier of Africa’s Digital Economy.” The high-level gathering aimed to explore how governance, technology, investment, and regional cooperation can accelerate Africa’s digital transformation.
Dr. Patrick Herminie, President of the Republic of Seychelles, emphasized the importance of ensuring that digital transformation delivers tangible benefits for all citizens. He highlighted the need for inclusive access to technology, connectivity, and opportunities that support shared prosperity across society. The President was joined by distinguished guests, including Amb. Selma Malika Haddadi, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, and Lerato Dorothy Mataboge, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy.
The dialogue focused on four strategic priorities central to Africa’s future competitiveness: building investable digital ecosystems, advancing market access and regional integration, addressing migration through economic opportunity and digital jobs, and mobilising finance for strategic infrastructure. Participants examined practical approaches to strengthening e-governance, expanding digital connectivity, accelerating trade integration, and creating conducive conditions for investment across the continent.
Marie-Antoinette Rose-Quatre, Chief Executive Officer of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Continental Secretariat, underscored the need for stronger governance frameworks to guide the adoption of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. This ensures that innovation contributes to sustainable development, job creation, and African ownership of digital value chains. The symposium is expected to inform a forthcoming APRM study on technological diffusion, adoption, and innovation in Africa.
The Forward Africa Leaders Symposium serves as a bridge between leadership, policy, and investment action. Executive Director Hannah Awuku stated that Africa does not lack leadership, ideas, or ambition, but rather stronger alignment between governance, capital, and implementation to unlock the continent’s full potential. The symposium brought together decision-makers and capital allocators from across Africa and the diaspora.
Key outcomes emerging from the gathering include the forthcoming FALS Investment Playbook 2026, policy recommendations on digital transformation and infrastructure development, strengthened continental cooperation frameworks, and enhanced collaboration among governments, investors, and development partners to advance Africa’s digital economy agenda. The event was attended by senior government officials, development finance leaders, private sector executives, and governance experts.
The Forward Africa Leaders Symposium is a high-level convening platform that brings together Heads of State, policymakers, investors, development partners, and business leaders to advance Africa’s governance, investment, and integration agenda through strategic dialogue and partnership. The African Peer Review Mechanism is the African Union’s voluntary self-monitoring instrument established to promote good governance, accountability, political stability, and sustainable development across participating Member States.
Key points
- The symposium focused on building investable digital ecosystems and advancing market access and regional integration.
- Dr. Patrick Herminie emphasized the importance of inclusive access to technology and connectivity.
- The event is expected to inform a forthcoming APRM study on technological diffusion, adoption, and innovation in Africa.
