AfDB Postpones 2025 Africa Economic Conference Amid Continental Reforms
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has announced the postponement of the 2025 Africa Economic Conference (AEC)—a flagship continental forum that brings together economists, policymakers, researchers, innovators and development partners to shape Africa’s economic agenda.
The conference, originally scheduled for December 7–8, will now hold on a new date to be announced after further consultations with partners and host institutions.
In a statement published on its official channels, the AfDB—co-organiser of the event alongside the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)—expressed regret over the rescheduling but emphasised the Bank’s commitment to delivering a high-quality, well-coordinated conference that reflects Africa’s evolving development priorities.
AEC: Africa’s Brain Trust for Economic Transformation
Since its inception in 2006, the Africa Economic Conference has served as the continent’s premier knowledge-exchange hub.
It is renowned for convening Africa’s brightest policy minds—bringing together global economists, thought leaders, academics, and researchers to interrogate macroeconomic risks, development opportunities and the future of Africa’s structural transformation.
Over nearly two decades, AEC has evolved into an incubator for policy innovation, research-driven reforms, and evidence-based decision-making, shaping Africa’s approach to trade, regional integration, digitalisation, climate finance, agro-industrialisation and inclusive growth.
A Necessary Pause, Not a Retreat
In announcing the deferral of the 2025 Africa Economic Conference, AfDB extended apologies to stakeholders and reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Africa’s development discourse.
“We offer our sincere apologies for any inconvenience this change may cause. A new date will be announced as soon as it is confirmed,” the Bank stated.
Participants and interested institutions are encouraged to reach out to the organisers via [email protected] for updates and logistical guidance.
BRANDECONOMY INSIGHT
The postponement of AEC 2025 is significant—not because of the delay, but because of what it signals. Africa is currently navigating a complex economic landscape: debt vulnerabilities, tightening global financial conditions, climate shocks, industrialisation pressures, and accelerating digital competition.
A well-timed and well-coordinated AEC is crucial. The Bank’s decision reflects a strategic recalibration to ensure the conference aligns with emerging reforms, financing frameworks and regional integration imperatives shaping the continent’s future.
AEC’s eventual return will be even more influential—positioned to catalyse new investment dialogue, macro-policy innovation, and continent-wide economic re-alignment at a critical moment.
