AWIEF2026 Conference & Exhibition

AWIEF

Africa women innovation
& Entrepreneurship Forum

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10-11 November 2026
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

The Leading Platform for Women Entrepreneurship in Africa

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AWIEF2025 brought together Africa’s vibrant entrepreneurial community under one roof.

The two-day conference and exhibition, held on 30–31 October 2025, united global thought leaders, policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs for engaging discussions, knowledge sharing, and meaningful networking.

More than 500 attendees from across Africa and beyond showcased innovation, shared insights, and explored strategies to drive inclusive, equitable, and sustainable growth through entrepreneurship and innovation.

The event created powerful opportunities for collaboration, visibility, and connection — reinforcing AWIEF’s role as Africa’s leading platform for women in entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation.

What To Expect

Why Attend

Exhibition Opportunities

Showcase | Connect | Grow

2025 Speakers

Fatima Elsheikh

Secretary General of Boards Governors and Directors

Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA)

Hajar Elhaddaoui

Director General

Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) Switzerland

Boitumelo Mosako

CEO

Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA)

H.E Vera Kamtukule

Minister

Tourism, Malawi Government

Hon. Christelle Vuanga

Member of Parlement (MP) Présidente réseau parlmentaire abolitionnistes

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

Christine Titih

President & Founder

Oaks Of Central PA, USA

Ope Lawal

Chief Marketing Officer

NBA Africa, Kenya

Cheryl Tibbs

Business Funding Advisor

Commercial Capital Connect, USA

2025 Sponsors

Why Attend AWIEF

“The AWIEF Conference was exceptionally well organised, inspiring, and impactful. The speakers were high-calibre, the sessions were practical, and the networking opportunities were invaluable. I left feeling empowered and ready to take my leadership journey to the next level.”

“Some of the most valuable growth came from the informal conversations. Being surrounded by brilliant, purpose-driven women was incredibly inspiring and energising.”

“AWIEF is a powerful platform for women empowerment in Africa. Seeing women leaders and entrepreneurs share openly was both affirming and motivating.”

“The sessions were relevant, insightful, and forward-looking. AWIEF creates space not only to learn, but to connect and build meaningful partnerships.”.”

“From the first AWIEF conference I attended, my expectations have always been met. It’s a space that continues to deliver value, inspiration, and connection.”

“AWIEF offers real value — strong networking, innovative ideas, and practical insights that support entrepreneurship and community impact across the continent.”

Your AWIEF 2026 Experience: A Game-Changer for Your Business

Day 1: Opening Ceremony & Keynotes

Kick off with inspiring keynotes from global thought leaders like Fatma Samoura (FIFA Secretary General, 2023 AWIEF Lifetime Leadership Award recipient) and Dr. Naledi Pandor (Former South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, 2024 AWIEF Lifetime Leadership Award recipient).

Workshops & Panels

Participate in hands-on workshops on topics like securing investment, leveraging technology for growth, and navigating regulatory challenges. Join panel discussions with experts on DEI and sustainable entrepreneurship.

Multi-Sector Exhibition

Explore the exhibition floor to connect with businesses, discover innovative solutions, and showcase your own products or services to a targeted audience.

Day 2: Closing Sessions & Action Planning

End with actionable takeaways through a closing keynote and a session on building your post-AWIEF action plan to implement what you’ve learned.

AWIEF Awards Gala & Networking Dinner

Celebrate Africa’s top women entrepreneurs at the AWIEF Awards Gala. Network over dinner with award winners, investors, and peers in a relaxed setting.

2025 Event Gallery

Hear from the AWIEF Community

“What I like about AWIEF is its strong focus on fostering entrepreneurship and driving innovation, which is key to shaping the future of our economies.”

“AWIEF and its amazing team should be proud of this achievement. It has made a significant impact on policy dialogue across Africa. As the organization continues to grow, it’s important to reflect on its accomplishments while also looking ahead at the challenges in sustainable development and inclusive growth, areas where AWIEF is well-positioned to contribute.”

“Entrepreneurship is the backbone of Africa’s economic growth, and forums like AWIEF are where resilience, innovation, and opportunity come together to drive real change for women across the continent.”

"Events like AWIEF bring together private sector leaders, government, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to unlock real opportunities for women and youth, and to turn Africa’s prosperity potential into reality."

"AWIEF is a critical platform for bringing together women from across the African continent to share experiences, discuss barriers, and explore what we can scale up to drive real growth for women entrepreneurs"

“The AWIEF Conference is a key event of the year, bringing together stakeholders and decision-makers from across Africa. It provides a platform to discuss critical issues and support SMEs.”