July 14, 2026 – From Dialogue to Structural Transformation

 

After a first day dedicated to Africa's macroeconomic outlook, fiscal resilience and the governance of natural resources, the Africa Economic Symposium enters its second and final day with a focus on the structural transformations that will shape the continent's future.

 

Today's discussions will explore how Africa can harness technological innovation, accelerate the climate and energy transition, strengthen social inclusion and mobilize the financing needed to support sustainable growth. Bringing together leading policymakers, researchers and practitioners, Day Two will continue the evidence-based dialogue needed to turn today's transitions into tomorrow's opportunities.

DEBATES NOT TO BE MISSED TODAY

Bridging Global Knowledge and Local Expertise

 

The day opens with a featured session dedicated to the Network for Impact in Africa (NIA), an initiative that brings together African institutions and international partners to strengthen evidence-based policymaking across the continent. Speakers will discuss how stronger research networks, local expertise and knowledge partnerships can contribute to more effective and impactful public policies.

Climate, Energy and Natural Resources

 

Morning parallel sessions will examine two critical dimensions of Africa's structural transformation. One discussion will revisit the opportunities and challenges associated with the continent's abundant natural resources, while the other will focus on the climate and energy transition, exploring policies that can support resilient, low-carbon and sustainable growth in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

Technology as a Driver of Structural Transformation

 

The afternoon begins with a plenary session exploring how technological progress can accelerate productivity, industrial development and economic diversification. Experts will discuss the policies, investments and institutional reforms needed to ensure that digital transformation becomes a catalyst for inclusive and sustained economic growth across Africa.

Building Inclusive Societies

 

Economic transformation must also deliver social progress. The Symposium's third plenary session will examine how social policies can promote greater inclusion, reduce inequalities and expand opportunities, ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared across communities and generations.

Financing Africa's Transitions

 

As Africa faces multiple simultaneous transitions, mobilizing adequate financing remains one of the continent's defining challenges. The fourth plenary session will explore how governments, development partners and financial institutions can strengthen investment, improve access to capital and build the financial resilience needed to support long-term structural transformation.

Special Focus: Managing the World Cup Economy

 

The Symposium concludes with a special session examining the economic opportunities and policy challenges associated with hosting major sporting events. As Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, speakers will discuss how strategic planning, infrastructure investment and sound public policy can help maximize the tournament's long-term economic and social legacy.

BEYOND THE PLENARY HALL

The conversations continue beyond each session.

 

Throughout the day, participants are invited to connect during networking breaks, exchange ideas with fellow researchers and policymakers, explore the latest publications from the Policy Center for the New South, and strengthen partnerships that extend well beyond the Symposium itself.

 

Some of the most valuable insights emerge between sessions, where new collaborations and future research initiatives often begin.

CLOSING THE FOURTH EDITION

Day Two concludes with closing remarks from Dr. Karim El Aynaoui, Executive President of the Policy Center for the New South, bringing to a close two days of dialogue on Africa's economic future.

 

The ideas shared throughout the Symposium will continue to inform research, policy and collaboration across the continent long after the final session ends. As participants return to their respective institutions and countries, the challenge remains the same: transforming today's transitions into lasting, inclusive and sustainable growth.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Need the full programme? Looking for a speaker or session details? Everything you need is available through the AES mobile application and on the Symposium website.

 

Stay connected throughout the day to follow every session and join the conversation online.

 

We wish you an inspiring and productive second day at the 4th Africa Economic Symposium.

You are receiving this email because you have subscribed in the past, attended one or more of our events, have contact with our staff or Fellows or broader network. We consider that you want to keep receiving our think tank's publications unless you unsubscribe from our mass mailing system.

 

Unsubscribe from this mailing list | Update your details | Other requests

 

Policy Center for the New South
Rabat Campus of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University Rocade Rabat Salé 11103, Morocco
www.policycenter.ma | contact@policycenter.ma

© 2026 Policy Center for the New South. All rights reserved.

 

Ce traitement a été notifié et autorisé par la CNDP au titre du récépissé N° D-NL-718/2020

This processing has been notified and authorized by the CNDP under receipt N ° D-NL-718/2020