Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema to Address Global Leaders at IFAL 2026

The 2026 International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership (IFAL) will take place on September 24 at the Marriott Marquis in New York, during the United Nations General Assembly week. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema will participate in the Heads of State & Government Interventions session. This annual forum, convened by the African Leadership Magazine, brings together heads of state, policymakers, investors, and private-sector leaders from Africa and the Caribbean.

President Hichilema's participation in IFAL 2026 reflects the forum's focus on the intersection of business leadership and statecraft. Before entering national politics, he built a business career, serving as chief executive of Coopers Lybrand Zambia and Grant Thornton Zambia. He has also chaired the boards of Barclays Bank Zambia, Sun International, and Africa Trade Insurance. His experience in both business and politics makes him a valuable contributor to the discussions at IFAL 2026.

President Hichilema was elected President of Zambia in August 2021. His presence at IFAL 2026 will be joined by other heads of state and government, including Dr. Jakaya Kikwete, former President of Tanzania, and Hon. John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize. The forum aims to strengthen trans-regional cooperation, trade, and investment between Africa and the Caribbean.

IFAL 2026 is a flagship event of the African Leadership Magazine, taking place on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly. The forum provides a platform for leaders to discuss pressing issues affecting Africa and the Caribbean, and to explore opportunities for collaboration and growth. This year's event is expected to attract a diverse range of participants, including policymakers, investors, and private-sector leaders.

The African Leadership Magazine has announced several award winners for 2026, including Mr. Khulekani Mathe, who will receive the African Leadership Award for Excellence in Economic Policy & Private Sector Advocacy. Dr. Kelly Oluoch will receive the African Health & Institutional Development Leadership Excellence Award, and Mr. Mohamed Abdellahi Ould Yaha will be conferred with the African Leadership Excellence Award in Entrepreneurship and Industrial Development.

In related news, the African Leadership Magazine recently announced the winners of the 2025 African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA). The awards recognize outstanding achievements in various fields, including business, entrepreneurship, and leadership. The magazine's events and awards aim to promote excellence and innovation in Africa and the Caribbean.

The Africa Energy Indaba 2025 is another significant event that will shape Africa's energy future. The event will bring together leaders and experts to discuss pressing energy issues affecting the continent. Meanwhile, IFAL 2026 will provide a unique opportunity for President Hichilema and other leaders to engage in discussions on African-Caribbean leadership and cooperation.

Key points

• Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema will address global leaders at IFAL 2026 in New York.
• IFAL 2026 will focus on the intersection of business leadership and statecraft.
• The forum aims to strengthen trans-regional cooperation, trade, and investment between Africa and the Caribbean.