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Business leaders, policymakers, investors and entrepreneurs from across Africa and key global markets are gathering in Cape Town for Standard Bank’s Africa Unlocked 2026 conference to explore the practical actions required to accelerate trade, investment and sustainable economic growth across the continent.
Hosted by Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking under the theme, ‘Built in Africa: Amplifying Continental Growth,’ the conference will focus on the growing role of African businesses, capital and innovation in shaping the continent’s next phase of development.
Now in its third edition, Africa Unlocked has evolved alongside Africa’s economic journey.
As the continent strengthens regional value chains, mobilises investment and builds globally competitive businesses, the conference will convene leaders from business, government, development finance institutions and academia to exchange practical ideas, strengthen partnerships and explore solutions that support long-term economic growth.
“Against a backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics, shifting global supply chains and growing implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, business leaders are focused on how Africa can strengthen intra-African trade, attract productive investment and enhance long-term economic resilience,” Sim Tshabalala, Chief Executive of Standard Bank Group said.
Tshabalala said the continent was seeing businesses expanding into new markets, entrepreneurs scaling with confidence and investment supporting infrastructure, industrialisation and innovation.
“The next phase of growth will depend on how effectively we build on this momentum through stronger partnerships, greater regional integration and continued investment in Africa’s productive economy,” he said.
Tshabalala said since its launch in 2024, Africa Unlocked had grown into one of Standard Bank’s leading thought leadership platforms, convening influential voices from business, government, development finance and academia to advance practical solutions for Africa’s development.
Discussions will cover trade under AfCFTA, mobilising capital for infrastructure and industrialisation, energy security and climate resilience, AI in industry, scaling mid-corps to continental champions, wealth and succession planning, and Africa’s economic outlook amid global shifts.
“Africa’s growth story is increasingly being written by businesses that are scaling across borders, attracting investment and embracing innovation,” Bill Blackie, Chief Executive of Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank Group stated.
“Africa Unlocked was about discussing Africa’s future by bringing together decision-makers who can unlock investment, enable trade and build the partnerships required to turn opportunity into measurable economic growth,” he said.
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