2026 Agenda Sessions

Beyond symbolism: Government-Industry alignment in practice

As competition for capital intensifies, symbolic engagement is no longer enough to unlock investment. This session brings together senior government leaders and mining CEOs to examine how alignment between public policy and private capital actually delivers results. The discussion will focus on what investors look for beyond political presence, how governments can translate strategy into bankable frameworks, and how industry and the state can align on timelines, risk allocation, and execution. Grounded in real examples, the session moves past rhetoric to explore how effective government–industry partnerships drive projects from intent to investment.

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Debate: Africa is a winner from current geopolitical disruption

Conventional wisdom suggests that Africa is negatively impacted by the current geopolitical forces. Tariffs, immigration curbs, reduced development funding and a more nationalist agenda in traditional allies are risks to Africa's growth, particularly in minerals. But could the opposite be true? Could the geopolitical (dis)order have more upside than downside for the continent, through for instance - new investment and trade routes, extra focus on intra-Africa trade, and a push for local beneficiation and industrialisation? 

This debate will see two teams argue the case in opposite directions relating to Africa's place in the current geopolitical order. The views they express may not represent their personal or organisational view, but they assume the side they've been given so we can benefit from a diversity of perspectives.

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How can Africa future-proof its strategic corridors amid shifting geopolitics?

Africa’s trade and mineral corridors are central to its integration story, but also vulnerable to global realignments. As partners recalibrate their investment strategies, which corridor models can secure long-term African ownership and sustainability?

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