African Financial Industry Summit (AFIS 2026) Kicks Off in Angola with 1,250 Financial Decision-Makers

Tuesday 3 November 2026 13:04

The 6th edition of the African Financial Industry Summit (AFIS 2026) launched today, Tuesday, in Luanda, the capital of Angola. Running through November 3–4, the summit brings together over 1,250 banking leaders, policymakers, and regulators to enhance financial ecosystems, foster investment, and strengthen economic partnerships across the continent.

Organized by Jeune Afrique Media Group in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the summit is held under the theme: "Making Capital Work: Unlocking Potential Through African Finance." This edition holds special significance as it marks the first time the event is hosted in Southern Africa and in a Lusophone (Portuguese-speaking) nation.

High-Level Presence at the Opening Session

The opening ceremony witnessed broad participation from senior government officials and top financial executives, notably:

Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

Sidi Ould Tah, President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

José de Lima Massano, Angolan Minister of State for Economic Coordination.

Vera Daves de Sousa, Angolan Minister of Finance.

They were joined by CEOs representing commercial banks, stock exchanges, insurance companies, and fintech firms.

Key Discussion Tracks and Topics

The summit focuses on addressing critical challenges facing Africa's financial sector, with primary discussions centered around:

Supporting Sectoral Projects: Enhancing the capacity of financial institutions to fund mega-projects and improving access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in agriculture, manufacturing, housing, and infrastructure.

Financial Integration & Fintech: Deepening regional financial integration, developing cross-border payment systems, and leveraging artificial intelligence and modern technology in banking services.

Mobilizing Domestic Savings: Converting national savings into long-term investments to support sustainable economic growth and reduce reliance on external financing.