The Financial Times has announced that the 12th edition of its flagship FT Africa Summit will be held on 21–22 October 2025 at The Peninsula, London, under the theme “Africa in a Changing World.”
Focus on innovation and policy
This year’s summit will examine how African countries, including Nigeria, are shaping growth through innovation, renewable energy transition, and youth-led entrepreneurship. The agenda will also explore policies, technologies, and investment opportunities that can support the expansion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
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Key topics include policy reforms in Nigeria, Angola, and South Africa, opportunities in fintech, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure, as well as industrial development and renewable energy adoption.
High-level speakers
Speakers will include Mahmoud Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission; Ronald Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations; and David Sengeh, Sierra Leone’s Chief Innovation Officer. Executives from companies such as Infinity Power and TotalEnergies will also take part.
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Opportunities for SMEs
For SMEs, the summit provides access to investors, development partners, and international stakeholders. The event is expected to open networking and partnership opportunities across trade, finance, infrastructure, and energy.
Senior editors from the Financial Times will moderate sessions, ensuring a focus on diplomacy, digital growth, and development priorities.
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David Pilling, FT Africa Editor, described the summit as “a vital platform to explore Africa’s role in a rapidly changing world.” Alec Russell, FT Foreign Editor, added that it will also be a space for “candid dialogue on Africa’s challenges and fresh thinking on investment and innovation.”
The FT Africa Summit continues to serve as a bridge between African entrepreneurs and the global community, creating pathways for SME visibility and market expansion.
