30 May 2026 Β· Sandton, South Africa

AI Strategy & Leadership

Unlocking Africa's Trade Potential Summit

"Harnessing Technology and Leadership to Accelerate Africa's Continental Unity and Growth"

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About the Summit

Where AI Meets AfCFTA

By 2026, Africa stands at a decisive crossroads. The African Continental Free Trade Area has established the world's largest single-market bloc by population. GBLIF 2026 is the engine room where AI, trade, and leadership converge to drive real progress across the continent.

Core Thematic Pillars

🌍

AfCFTA: The Economic Blueprint

Making a borderless Africa work in practice. Focus on digital trade protocols, rules of origin, SME integration, and infrastructure for seamless cross-border commerce.

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AI: The Growth Accelerator

Harnessing artificial intelligence for efficiency and scale. Predictive analytics, fintech solutions, governance applications, and data infrastructure for African-led innovation.

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Strategic Leadership: The Human Catalyst

Building leaders who deliver results. Adaptive leadership, ethical governance, youth empowerment, and African-led solutions that drive continental transformation.

Official Itinerary – 30 May 2026

Phase 1: The Visionary Morning

08:00 – 12:00

Global Trends, Policy, and Leadership

  • β€’Registration and Networking
  • β€’Grand Opening and Cultural Tech Fusion
  • β€’Keynote: 'The African Digital Renaissance'
  • β€’Panel: 'One Market, One Intelligence' – AfCFTA Digitization
  • β€’Session: 'AI for the Boardroom' – From Awareness to Implementation

Phase 2: The Strategy Afternoon

12:00 – 18:00

Implementation, Investment, and Innovation

  • β€’Networking Lunch
  • β€’Panel: 'Capital Without Borders' – Investment in AI & Trade
  • β€’Breakout Sessions: Smart Logistics, Fintech, Youth Leadership, ESG
  • β€’GBLIF Pitch Tank – African Startups Present to Investors
  • β€’Closing Remarks and Key Takeaways

Phase 3: Leadership Dinner

19:00 – 22:00

Recognition, Networking, and Strategic Partnerships

  • β€’Welcome Reception
  • β€’Leadership Gala Dinner – Awards Ceremony
  • β€’Fireside Chat with Policymakers and Industry Leaders
  • β€’Networking and Future Commitments

Who Should Attend

Business Leaders & CEOs

Strategies to scale operations across multiple markets using AI-driven tools

Policymakers

Frameworks aligning national strategies with AfCFTA protocols

Investors

Direct access to high-potential, trade-focused startups

Young Innovators

Leadership platforms, mentorship, and skills development for the AI-driven economy

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Venue

The Houghton Hotel

Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa β€” one of the continent's most prestigious 5-star venues, offering world-class conference facilities, luxury accommodation, and impeccable hospitality.

5-Star Luxury
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Event Goals

The "Triple Threat" Strategy

Market Integration

Cross-border partnerships and pilot collaborations between technology and logistics firms

Leadership Literacy

Move decision-makers from awareness to actual AI implementation within organizations

Policy Advocacy

The Sandton Manifesto: recommendations for aligning AI regulations across Africa

Conference Themes

Key Topics

Seven transformative themes shaping Africa's future through technology, leadership, and continental integration.

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Artificial Intelligence & Digital Transformation in Africa

Harnessing AI and digital innovation to drive economic growth and continental competitiveness

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Renewable Energy Innovation & Green Economy Careers

Sustainable energy solutions and emerging career opportunities in Africa's green economy

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Strategic Leadership for Economic Growth

Executive insights on leading organizations through transformation and market disruption

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Unlocking Opportunities under AfCFTA

Maximizing trade potential through the African Continental Free Trade Area framework

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Youth Leadership, Skills Development & Future of Work

Preparing the next generation of African leaders for emerging industries and opportunities

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Trade, Innovation & Continental Integration

Building stronger African economies through strategic trade and innovation partnerships

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Public–Private Partnerships for Sustainable Development

Collaborative models driving sustainable development and shared prosperity across Africa

Explore these topics and more at the summit. Register now to secure your seat!

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Tickets

Secure Your Seat

Choose the experience that suits you. All tickets include access to the full-day conference on 30 May 2026.

Conference Ticket

General

R2,000
or $120 USD
  • Full Conference Access
  • Networking Sessions
  • Conference Materials
  • Lunch & Refreshments
Register Now
Popular
Conference Ticket

VIP

R3,500
or $260 USD
  • Full Conference Access
  • Priority Seating
  • Exclusive Networking
  • VIP Dinner Access
  • Conference Materials
  • Premium Hospitality
Register Now
Premium
Conference Ticket

VVIP

R5,000
or $350 USD
  • Full Conference Access
  • Front-Row Seating
  • VVIP Lounge Access
  • Exclusive Dinner
  • 1-on-1 Networking
  • Premium Gift Pack
  • Priority Check-in
Register Now

All prices include VAT. Payment accepted via EFT, card, or international wire. Contact us on WhatsApp to complete your registration.

VIP & VVIP Exclusive

Exclusive Networking Dinner

18:00 – 22:00
The Houghton Hotel

Immediately following the conference, VIP and VVIP attendees are invited to an exclusive black-tie networking dinner. This intimate gala brings together Africa's most influential leaders for an evening of premium cuisine, cultural celebration, and high-level strategic conversations that continue long after the conference floor closes.

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Premium Cuisine
World-class multi-course dinner curated by award-winning chefs
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Elite Networking
Intimate setting with Africa's top executives, ministers, and innovators
🎡
Live Entertainment
Sophisticated live music and cultural performances
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VIP & VVIP Only
Exclusive access for VIP and VVIP ticket holders only
Sponsorship

Become a Strategic Partner

Align your brand with Africa's most influential AI and trade leadership forum. Our sponsorship packages offer unparalleled visibility, networking access, and strategic positioning across the continent.

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Sponsor Package

Bronze

$600 USD
or R10,000
  • Logo on all official marketing materials
  • Recognition as official sponsor
  • Social media mentions
  • Exhibition area opportunity
  • 2 VIP attendee passes
  • Inclusion in conference programme
  • Listing on event website
  • Access to attendee demographics
  • Company brochures at event
  • Recognition in email campaigns
Become a Bronze Sponsor
πŸ₯ˆ
Sponsor Package

Silver

$1,500 USD
or R25,000
  • Strategic brand visibility
  • Exhibition space engagement
  • Logo on banners, stage & screens
  • Company profile in programme
  • Social media promotion
  • 4 VIP attendee passes
  • Recognition at ceremonies
  • Press release mentions
  • 1-on-1 networking meetings
  • Enhanced positioning for AI & digital
Become a Silver Sponsor
Most Popular
πŸ₯‡
Sponsor Package

Gold

$3,000 USD
or R50,000
  • Premium brand visibility across all platforms
  • Exhibition space with direct engagement
  • Company profile in attendee packages
  • Short address or company presentation
  • 2 VVIP attendee passes
  • 2 nights 5-star accommodation for VVIPs
  • Front-row seating & exclusive networking
  • All digital & print marketing materials
  • Pre-event media & email campaigns
  • Priority in event photography & videography
Become a Gold Sponsor
πŸ’Ž
Sponsor Package

Platinum

$7,000 USD
Contact Us
  • Top-tier sponsor – maximum visibility
  • Logo on main stage, website & all materials
  • Premium exhibition positioning
  • Branded gifts for all attendees
  • Full-page recognition in programme
  • Access to attendee data for follow-up
  • 4 VVIP passes + VVIP lounge access
  • 2 nights luxury accommodation
  • Dedicated session, panel or presentation
  • Highlighted in all post-event reports
Become a Platinum Sponsor
Venue & Accommodation
5-Star Luxury

The Houghton Hotel

Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa

Nestled in the prestigious suburb of Houghton, this iconic 5-star hotel offers an unparalleled combination of luxury, comfort, and world-class conference facilities. With sweeping views of Johannesburg, a stunning infinity pool, and award-winning cuisine, The Houghton Hotel sets the perfect stage for Africa's most important leadership gathering.

🏊Infinity Pool
🍽️Fine Dining
πŸ’†Luxury Spa
πŸ‹οΈFitness Centre
πŸš—Valet Parking
✈️Airport Transfer
πŸ“ΆHigh-Speed WiFi
🎭Event Facilities
Contact Us

Get in Touch

Our team is ready to assist you with registration, sponsorship enquiries, accommodation bookings, and any other questions about the event.