November 10 – 11, 2026

CTICC, Cape Town, SA

Powering Prosperity: Shaping Markets & Transforming Economies

AWIEF returns as Africa's premier platform for women in leadership and innovation, shifting the conversation from simple participation to absolute economic ownership.

SECURE ACCESS PASS EXPLORE THE JOURNEY

Where Africa’s Leaders Unite

The Forefront ofChange

AWIEF returns in 2026 with the theme: Beyond Access: Owning Capital, Markets & Power. It remains Africa's premier platform for women in leadership, shifting the conversation from participation to power.

Both a dynamic conference and diverse exhibition, AWIEF is a powerful forum where some of the continent’s most influential entrepreneurs, investors and policymakers collaborate to forge strategic partnerships, unlock capital and market. Together, we explore practical and achievable solutions to how women can reclaim economic influence and drive inclusive growth across Africa.

1000+

Delegates

50+

Countries Represented

All

Sectors Covered

Multimodal

Summit Format

A Critical Platform

What will AWIEF Do For You?

AWIEF is more than a conference; it is a powerful platform that connects entrepreneurs, drives policy change, and unlocks access to investment. Attending positions you at the heart of Africa’s female-led economic transformation.

Thought Leadership & Influence

Gain in-depth access to panels led by ministers, enterprise executives, industry experts, and institutional investors exploring the policies and strategies that determine capital ownership.

Unrivalled Networking Platform

Leverage curated B2B matchmaking opportunities to connect with potential partners, global buyers, and key ecosystem allies.

Real-time Industry Trends

Decode shifts in venture capital flows, AfCFTA-driven trade, and digital business optimisation models.

Direct Business Growth

Pitch products, showcase technological services and engage directly with procurement heads representing corporate and public entities.

Skill Development Masterclasses & Workshops

Participate in hands-on workshops and masterclasses targeted at scaling enterprises, building robust governance structures, and navigating global supply chains.

The Delegate Experience

THE ATTENDEE JOURNEY

Every phase of our curated conference is designed to bring you closer to unlocking your business potential.

Phase 1

Arrival & Network Induction

Your journey commences in the premium reception area at the illustrious Cape Town International Conference Centre. Connect over coffee with delegates from 50+ countries and prepare your matching preferences for two days of collaboration.

Phase 2

Leadership Panels

Head to the main stage and engage in strategic panels led by some of the world’s most influential business leaders. Contribute to the discussion, exchange ideas, and make your mark.

Phase 3

Exhibition Showcase

Transition into the bustling Exhibition Hall for results-oriented networking. Present your services, explore innovative solutions at vendor stalls and attend your pre-scheduled B2B private sessions.

Phase 4

Celebratory AWIEF Gala

Conclude the summit in style at the highly prestigious black-tie AWIEF Awards & Gala Dinner. Raise a glass to the continental pioneers breaking glass ceilings in entrepreneurship while celebrating your achievements and the relationships you’ve cultivated over an evening of cultural entertainment and gourmet dining.

Reflections from the AWIEF Community

SUCCESS STORIES

“The conference creates a powerful space to connect, share knowledge, and align our efforts towards economic empowerment. The sessions were enlightening, offering fresh perspectives and showcasing the strength of collaboration among women. I’ll definitely be back.”

Anatolia

Kenya Delegate

“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.”

Naledi Pandor

Former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, South Africa

“AWIEF has significantly impacted policy dialogue across Africa and is well-positioned to tackle future challenges in sustainable development and inclusive growth.”

Michael B. O'Sullivan

World Bank, US Speaker

World-Class Voices

2026 SPEAKERS

An exceptional lineup of policymakers, C-Suite business leaders, high-growth founders and international and global venture investors.

Keynote speakers will be announced soon.

Showcase | Connect | Grow

EXHIBITION OPPORTUNITIES

SHOWCASE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES TO A HIGH-PROFILE AUDIENCE OF BUSINESS LEADERS, INVESTORS, AND GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS
BUILD STRATEGIC CONNECTIONS THROUGH CURATED NETWORKING AND BUSINESS MATCHMAKING
BOOST BRAND VISIBILITY WITH EXPOSURE ACROSS AWIEF’S MEDIA, DIGITAL, AND MARKETING CHANNELS