Senior policymakers, diplomats, business leaders, and academics from across the world convened in Nairobi this week for the African International Conference, a landmark three-day summit themed “Africa – The Center of Focus for the Next Decade.”
Held from September 15 to 17 at the Kempinski Hotel, the event brought together participants from more than 30 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, reflecting the continent’s growing importance in global strategic and economic planning.
Organised by Strategic Renaissance 21 (SR21) in partnership with Konza Technopolis Development Authority, the conference aimed to position Africa not just as a stakeholder in global affairs, but as a driver of innovation, diplomacy, and sustainable development.
Africa as the Strategic Pivot
In a series of high-level panels and keynotes, discussions focused on Africa’s evolving role in geopolitics, finance, technology, and human capital development. Delegates explored the continent’s growing significance in multipolar power dynamics, particularly in the context of BRICS+ frameworks, and the potential of African economies to leapfrog in fields like AI, fintech, and smart cities.
Youth activism and generational shifts were also a prominent theme, with Kenyan student activist Crystabel W. highlighting the recent Gen Z-led protests as part of a global youth movement for justice and accountability.
A major highlight was the unveiling of a $20 million “AAS x SR21 Campus Development Plan”, which aims to establish AI labs, agricultural research hubs, and carbon-credit infrastructure to build long-term research capacity across the continent.
Global Dialogue, Local Relevance
The speaker list spanned the globe. African leaders included Dr. Chris Kiptu, Kenya’s Treasury Secretary, Ambassador Mabuhungo of South Africa, and Cameroon’s High Commissioner Vivian Nain. Asia was represented by Frank Zhang of China’s AI Universe Association and Indian digital strategist Kamal Madishetty, while Saliya Weerakoon of Sri Lanka gave a regional perspective on South Asia’s development trajectory.
Europe and the Americas added further insight, with participation from Lt. Gen. Johan Kihl of Sweden, Ranil Wickremesinghe, former President of Sri Lanka (via video), and Dr. Howard Morgan, Chair of SR21 and B Capital.
SR21 President Phil Midland described the conference as a turning point in building “a new era of trust and shared strategy.”
Quotes from the Summit
Howard Morgan, SR21 Chairman:
“Africa is not only part of the future, but a leader in the future. This conference demonstrated how dialogue across continents can turn today’s crises into tomorrow’s opportunities.”
Nkem Khumba, African Academy of Sciences:
“By connecting Africa’s innovation potential with global partners, we are designing a future where no region is left behind.”
Frank Zhang, AI Universe Association (China):
“This is not about exporting a model—it is about sharing lessons, adapting them locally, and building a new chapter of South-South cooperation.”
Looking Ahead: Africa 2035
The summit concluded with a keynote titled “Africa 2035: The World’s Strategic Pivot”, emphasising Africa’s central role in shaping a more equitable and sustainable global order.
Organisers said plans are already underway for follow-up initiatives, including investment forums, bilateral cooperation programmes, and regional innovation accelerators.
About SR21
Strategic Renaissance 21 is a global initiative committed to fostering long-term strategic thinking, stability, and cross-border collaboration in governance, economics, and innovation.
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