The Manufacturing Indaba has officially launched its highly anticipated 2026 Conference Programme, setting the stage for a dynamic and solutions-driven gathering of industry leaders, policymakers and investors committed to advancing Africa’s industrialisation agenda.

Taking place on 14–15 July 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre, this year’s event will be held under the theme: Made in Africa: Scaling Growth, Shaping Trade

The programme reflects a bold and practical approach to accelerating manufacturing growth across the continent, with a strong focus on unlocking value chains, strengthening regional trade and mobilising investment into Africa’s industrial sectors.

Bringing together senior representatives from government, industry and finance, the Manufacturing Indaba continues to serve as a key platform where policy meets business and strategy translates into action.   The 2026 programme opens with a high-level Ministerial addresses.    These high-level contributions underscore the strong government support behind South Africa’s and Africa’s broader industrial development agenda.

The two-day programme features a comprehensive mix of plenary sessions and specialised breakaway panels, addressing the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the manufacturing sector today.

Key discussions will include Africa’s transition from a supplier of raw materials to a global manufacturing hub, the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and strategies to unlock a market valued at over US$3.4 trillion. 

A strong emphasis will be placed on financing industrialisation, with dedicated sessions exploring how to mobilise capital, de-risk projects and attract both domestic and international investment into Africa’s manufacturing sector.

Infrastructure and logistics will also take centre stage, with sessions examining how improvements in rail, ports and trade corridors can enable faster, more efficient movement of goods across the continent—critical to enhancing competitiveness and supporting intra-African trade.

In recognition of the rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the programme includes focused discussions on Industry 4.0, including artificial intelligence, automation and digitalisation, and how these technologies can be leveraged to boost productivity and global competitiveness.

Sector-specific opportunities will be explored through targeted breakaway sessions covering key industries such as automotive manufacturing, FMCG, mining, agro-processing and critical minerals beneficiation. These sessions are designed to provide practical insights into scaling production, building regional value chains and unlocking new market opportunities.

The programme also highlights the importance of skills development and workforce readiness, with discussions centred on vocational training and equipping Africa’s workforce for the future of manufacturing.

Energy remains a critical enabler of industrial growth, and dedicated sessions will examine how Africa’s evolving energy landscape—including the transition to more sustainable and diversified energy sources—can support manufacturing expansion while ensuring reliability and affordability.

In addition to its robust conference agenda, the Manufacturing Indaba places a strong emphasis on business engagement and deal-making. Through its structured B2B Connect platform, delegates will have the opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers, explore partnerships and advance investment opportunities.“The Manufacturing Indaba is not just a conference—it is a catalyst for industrial growth,” said Liz Hart, Managing Director of the Manufacturing Indaba.  

“The 2026 programme has been carefully designed to address real challenges, unlock opportunities and drive meaningful outcomes for Africa’s manufacturing sector.” As Africa continues to position itself within a shifting global manufacturing landscape, the Manufacturing Indaba provides a critical platform to align stakeholders, share insights and accelerate progress toward a more competitive and industrialised continent.

With strong participation expected from across Africa and beyond, the 2026 edition is set to reinforce the Manufacturing Indaba’s role as a leading platform for shaping the future of manufacturing on the continent.