Abidjan hosts landmark African economic conference with new economist network launch

Abidjan’s African Development Bank headquarters served as the venue for the African Economic Conference (AEC) 2026, co-organized with the United Nations Development Programme and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. This year’s theme, Strengthening Africa’s Geopolitical Influence and Trade Resilience in a Multipolar World, set the stage for three days of high-level discussions.

Ivorian Minister of Planning and Development Souleymane Diarrassouba inaugurated the event, with more than 4,000 participants engaging virtually throughout the conference.

New African Chief Economists Network unveiled

The final day of the conference marked the official launch of the African Chief Economists Network (ACE-Network), a platform designed to align the continent’s economic expertise and streamline public policy responses to global economic shocks.

According to the African Development Bank, this network will help develop solutions to Africa’s most pressing challenges amid growing geopolitical fragmentation. Professor Kevin Urama, Vice President of the African Development Bank, emphasized the need for Africa to bolster its knowledge systems to shape the global financial order.

From export dependency to strategic autonomy

Speakers repeatedly highlighted the urgency of adding value to local resources rather than exporting them in raw form. Ahunna Eziakonwa, UNDP Regional Director for Africa, stressed that Africa’s economic self-reliance is its strongest geopolitical asset.

Raymond Gilpin, UNDP Chief Economist for Africa, warned that global uncertainties will continue to test the resilience of African institutions. Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade, Senior Vice President of the African Development Bank, urged participants to convert the conference’s recommendations into concrete decisions and actions.

Côte d’Ivoire’s pivotal role in the regional economy

Abidjan has been home to the African Development Bank’s headquarters since 2014, following its temporary relocation to Tunis during the Ivorian crisis. The city has since become a key diplomatic and financial hub in West Africa.

The conference’s selection as the event’s host underscores Abidjan’s strategic importance in shaping Africa’s economic future. As the leading economy in the West African Economic and Monetary Union, Côte d’Ivoire is prioritizing infrastructure development and local processing of raw materials, particularly cocoa.

Boosting intra-African trade and economic sovereignty

Discussions centered on overcoming barriers that limit trade between African nations, including tariffs and inadequate infrastructure. Rather than aligning with external geopolitical blocs, participants advocated for true economic decision-making sovereignty.

The conclusions published on July 12 and 13 call for building a resilient and prosperous Africa capable of influencing global trade negotiations. The newly launched African Chief Economists Network is positioned as a critical tool for implementing these goals through coordinated continental policies.