The African Development Forum 2026
"Africa Rising as a Global Economic Power: International Business, Sustainable Investments and Tourism Development in Modern Economies"
Certificate of AttendanceAll Forum participants will be awarded an official Certificate of Attendance upon completion of the program, which will provide details of the speakers who took part in the event, and list the topics which were discussed. Each certificate will be signed by members of the ICD Advisory Board. |
Introduction
The African Development Forum 2026 will take place in Potsdam from 2 to 6 March, under the theme “Africa Rising as a Global Economic Power: International Business, Sustainable Investments and Tourism Development in Modern Economies.” The Forum will bring together government officials, business leaders, investors, international organisations, and academic experts to explore Africa’s growing role in the global economy. Discussions will focus on investment opportunities, economic diversification, regional integration, and strategies to strengthen Africa’s competitiveness in international markets.
Tourism and sustainable development will form a central part of the programme, highlighting the transformative potential of modern tourism across African economies. Participants will examine how responsible tourism can generate employment, promote cultural heritage, and stimulate economic growth while ensuring environmental protection and social inclusion. The Forum will provide a platform for knowledge exchange, policy recommendations, and partnerships that advance sustainable investment, modern business practices, and long-term economic development across the continent.
Tourism will be highlighted as a critical driver of Africa’s economic growth and international visibility. The Forum will explore the impact of modern tourism trends, including eco-tourism, cultural experiences, and digital innovation, on local communities and national economies. Discussions will focus on sustainable tourism practices that balance economic development with environmental protection and social responsibility, ensuring long-term benefits for both destinations and visitors. Participants will share strategies to enhance infrastructure, attract international tourists, and position Africa as a leading destination for responsible and innovative travel experiences.
Speakers & Delegates
Speakers during the forum will include leading politicians, senior diplomats, governmental officials, senior academics, journalists, and celebrated artists. These speakers will include a large number of individuals from the ICD Advisory Board. To learn more about the ICD Advisory Board, please click here.
Forum Locations
Based in the ICD Academy House the forum will be hosted at a number of important political, historic, and cultural locations across the city.
Forum Participants »Participation in the conference is open to governmental & diplomatic officials, academics, artists, journalists, civil society practitioners, private sector representatives, young professionals and students as well as other interested individuals from across the world. If you would like to participate in the conference, click on the link above |
Participant Papers »
The Conference Committee encourages academic research and analysis of issues related to the goals of the Conference. The Conference Committee would therefore like to welcome the participants of the conference to submit a paper they would like to be considered for presentation at the conference as well as being included in the proposal document that will be issued following the conference and will be sent to all governments and leaders of the international community.
