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Innovation in Africa is shaping the world's future

This year’s conference will explore how innovations across various sectors in Africa can influence the global economy. What role does African innovation play in shaping the global future? How do current ventures on the continent position Africa to become a leader in the global economy?

At this conference we would like to challenge the narrative that “Africa is the future” and explore whether “Africa is now.” We will welcome diverse perspectives on Africa’s unique opportunities and challenges as our speakers discuss what they see as Africa’s role in today’s economy.

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Events to Look Forward To

This year we will have speakers who are creating innovative ways of tackling challenges in healthcare, fintech, clean energy, cryptocurrencies, investing (private equity and venture capital), infrastructure & cities and entrepreneurship.

In addition to our lineup of amazing speakers and panelists, SABF will also be hosting a Venture Pitch Competition on April 17th. Come hear from inspiring and innovative founders as they pitch to early-stage investors from across the globe.

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A long history of cultivating forward-looking conversation

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Stanford Africa Business Forum. In 2007, the forum theme was “Fostering Entrepreneurial Activities in Africa”. Its objective was to portray Africa in a more positive light than that more commonly seen in the media and create awareness of the diverse and burgeoning opportunities. The first forum was organized by a group of enthusiastic students headed by Wilson Irungu Nyakera and Kwame Ansong-Dwamena.

Though the theme has changed from year to year, the motivation behind the forum hasn’t changed. The forum has always been aimed at creating awareness of the opportunities on the African continent and bring together Africans and friends of Africa from the continent and the diaspora to engage on the most important issues affecting the continent’s growth. Click to learn more about conferences in 2021, 2020, 2019, and 2018.