Harvard Africa Development Conference 2026: Reclaiming Africa’s Agency in a New Global Order

The global order is being rewritten. Africa’s choices today will shape the continent for generations. The 17th Annual Harvard Africa Development Conference brings together the leaders, thinkers, and builders making those choices right now.

Over two days at Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Law School, you’ll hear from some of the most influential voices shaping Africa’s future: Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, President of the African Development Bank Group, and Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former President of Mauritius and the first woman to hold the office. They’ll be joined by heads of state, ministers, investors, and entrepreneurs tackling the continent’s most urgent questions.

What you’ll experience:

Five powerful clusters examining geopolitics, governance, industrialization, climate, and innovation. Led by practitioners who’ve built institutions, closed deals, and shaped policy on the ground.

A private cocktail reception with speakers and fellow attendees building across borders and sectors.

Recruiting events connecting you directly with organizations driving transformation across the continent.

A policy hackathon for those ready to turn ideas into action.

A conference gala closing two days of serious conversation and real connection.

This isn’t a conference where you watch from the sidelines. It’s where you meet the people reshaping Africa’s future and figure out your role in it.

Get your ticket now. Spots are limited.