By ebosele@hotmail.com –
The 7th Africa Emerging Markets Forum (AEMF 2026), hosted by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in Abuja, opened with high-level discussions on the future of Africa’s economy and strategies for strengthening the continent’s resilience and growth.
The forum brought together policymakers, economists, global thought leaders and industry experts from across Africa and beyond to examine emerging economic challenges and opportunities confronting the continent.
A major highlight of the opening day was a high-level fireside dialogue between CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, and Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
The session focused on the forces reshaping the global economy and the strategic choices that will determine Africa’s next phase of economic development.
The opening session also featured remarks by the CBN Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, Dr. Muhammad Sani Abdullahi; Founding Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Emerging Markets Forum, Harinder Kohli; and Dr. Chukwuka Onyekwena, who welcomed delegates to the forum.
Panel discussions on the first day examined critical issues affecting Africa’s economic outlook.
The first panel, titled “Navigating Global Shocks: Monetary Policy Challenges for African Central Banks,” brought together policymakers and economists to discuss strategies for strengthening macroeconomic stability, addressing inflation and improving policy coordination amid persistent global uncertainties.
Participants also examined the need for African central banks to adopt effective policy measures capable of cushioning their economies against external shocks while supporting sustainable growth.
Another major highlight was a keynote address by Indermit Gill, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President for Development Economics at the World Bank Group.
Gill highlighted the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and urged developing economies to adopt bold, forward-looking strategies to harness the technology for economic development.
He emphasised the importance of preparing economies and institutions to take advantage of emerging technological opportunities while addressing the challenges associated with rapid digital transformation.
The second panel, titled “Deepening Regional Economic Integration Through Cross-Border Payments, Fintech, Infrastructure and Policy Coordination,” focused on practical measures for accelerating economic integration across Africa.
Discussions centred on the role of digital payments, fintech, infrastructure development and stronger policy coordination in removing barriers to intra-African trade and investment.
The forum is expected to continue providing a platform for policymakers and other stakeholders to exchange ideas and develop practical approaches to strengthening Africa’s economic resilience, integration and long-term development.
