African Free Trade & Special Economic Zones Administration Masterclass

Theme: Digital Transformation for Smart Zone Administration: Enhancing Efficiency, Transparency, and Investment Competitiveness”.

  • Batch B: Accra, Ghana | 16 – 22 November 2025
  • Batch C: Dakar, Senegal | 7 – 13 December 2025

Rationale & Overview

Africa’s Free Trade Zones (FTZs) and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are vital engines for industrialization, export growth, job creation, and economic diversification. UNCTAD (2024) reports that the continent attracted over $20 billion in FDI into its zones in the past five years, yet many zones continue to underperform due to productivity gaps, regulatory inefficiencies, and limited digital infrastructure. Strengthening the administrative and governance capacity of these zones is critical for unlocking sustainable economic impact and enhancing Africa’s role in global trade.

 

African Free Trade & Special Economic Zones Administration Masterclass

Why Attend?

Participants will:

  • Master Digital Governance: Implement technology-driven systems for efficient, transparent FTZ/SEZ administration.
  • Drive Investment & Compliance: Apply strategies to attract investment and ensure regulatory alignment in a digital-first environment.
  • Benchmark Best Practices: Adopt high-impact operational models from continental and global smart zones.
  • Align with AfCFTA Standards: Facilitate seamless intra-African trade and cross-border investment.
  • Build Strategic Networks: Connect with regulators, investors, and technology partners to expand influence and collaboration.

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Key Focus Area

Africa’s Financial Leadership & Capital Markets

Digital Transformation & Fintech Innovations

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) & Economic Growth

Sustainable & Green Finance

African Free Trade & Special Economic Zones Administration Masterclass

Programme Methodology

The Masterclass combines:

  • Expert Briefings: Insights on digital administration, governance, and policy alignment in FTZs/SEZs.
  • Sector-Specific Case Studies: Practical applications of digital transformation in zone operations.
  • Hands-On Workshops: AI, IoT, blockchain, and predictive analytics for operational efficiency.
  • Executive Roundtables: Peer discussions on policy, investment, and strategic management.

African Free Trade & Special Economic Zones Administration Masterclass

Expected Outcomes

By the end of the Masterclass, participants will be able to:

  • Implement technology-driven frameworks for efficient zone governance.
  • Deploy digital strategies to enhance investor confidence and cross-border trade.
  • Reduce operational inefficiencies, delays, and compliance risks using smart data analytics.
  • Influence national and regional trade policy aligned with AfCFTA digital trade objectives.
  • Position their agencies and zones as globally competitive, digitally enabled hubs.

AFLF 2025

Target Audience

The forum will attract key players in Africa’s financial sector, including:

  • African Ministers of Finance and Central Bank Governors.
  • CEOs and CFOs of major African financial institutions.
  • Leading executives in fintech, banking, and asset management.
  • Global investors, venture capitalists, and private equity firms.
  • Policymakers from multilateral institutions such as the World Bank and IMF.
  • Development finance institutions and regional economic bodies.

Speakers

Learn From Renowned educators & innovators

Gain insights into emerging trends, cutting-edge technologies, and novel methodologies shaping the educational landscape.

Event Agenda

Expand All +
  • AFLF Schedule


  • Day 1


  • Day 2


  • IFAL Schedule


  • We haven't found any session that matches you're criteria
  • Participants register, receive event materials, and network informally over breakfast.
    IFAL

  • • Master of Ceremonies (MC) Introduction
    • Opening Address by [Name], Chairperson of the Forum
    IFAL

  • Topic: "The Future of Africa’s Security Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities"
    • Delivered by (High-Level Government Official or Expert)
    IFAL

  • Topic: "Combating Cross-Border Crime: Strategies for Regional Cooperation"
    • Panelists: Defense Ministers, Security Experts, and Regional Leaders
    • Moderator: Name

  • 1. Technological Innovations for Border Management
    2. Counterterrorism Strategies for Africa
    3. Addressing Human Trafficking and Smuggling Networks
    IFAL

  • Topic: "Capacity Building for Border Officials: Tools and Best Practices"
    • Led by (Name/Organization)
    IFAL
    Where
    Hall 1, Building A

  • • Summary of Discussions
    • Insights from Day 1 by the Moderator
    IFAL

  • Topic: "The Role of Regional Organizations in Enhancing Africa’s Defense Capacity"
    • Delivered by (African Union Representative or Keynote Speaker)
    IFAL

  • Topic: "Policy Harmonization: Aligning Regional and National Border Security Frameworks"
    • Panelists: Regional Leaders, AU Representatives, and Policy Analysts
    IFAL

  • 1. Leveraging AI and Big Data for Intelligence Sharing
    2. Strengthening Maritime and Land Border Security
    3. Developing Legal Frameworks for Migration and Refugee Management
    IFAL

  • Topic: "Technology Showcase: Tools for Smarter Border Surveillance and Management"
    • Presentations by Leading Solution Providers
    IFAL

  • Topic: "Successful Cross-Border Operations: Lessons Learned"
    • Presented by (Name/Organization)
    IFAL

  • • Celebrating Excellence in Defense and Border Security
    • Key Takeaways from the Forum
    • Closing Address by (Name, Organizing Committee Head)
    • Vote of Thanks
    IFAL


African Free Trade & Special Economic Zones Administration Masterclass

Who Should Attend?

This selective programme targets policymakers, senior executives, and regulators, including:

  • Managing Directors and Executive Directors of FTZs/SEZs
  • Heads of Investment Promotion and Trade Agencies
  • Directors and Heads of Operations, ICT, Legal & Regulatory Affairs
  • Senior Compliance, Policy, and Logistics Officers
  • Regional Operations Strategists and Policy Advisors

African Free Trade & Special Economic Zones Administration Masterclass

Registration Fees

Registration Fees

US$3,500 per participant, including:

  • Full access to Masterclass sessions led by global FTZ/SEZ digital experts
  • Certificate of Participation and comprehensive digital training materials
  • Breakfast, lunch, and refreshments during the sessions
  • Professional tablet preloaded with tools, case studies, and resources

 

The African Leadership Organisation (UK) focuses on promoting African opportunities and dignity globally. We have committed the last 19 years to promoting impactful leadership on the continent and promoting African opportunities globally through an ecosystem of quality Afro-positive content, Africa trade facilitation and market entry solutions, Afro-centric communities and business networking platforms, as well as through public sector training and consulting.

 

For confirmation of participation, registration details, or any additional information and assistance, kindly send an email to elaikwu@africanleadership.co.uk or call +44 23 9265 8276.

Peduase Valley Resort

To inquire about availability, rates, and additional services, please contact our dedicated events team at events.@africanleadership.co.uk or visit our website for more details.

Pricing

Select an individual ticket or reserve a table of ten and bring your colleagues to maximize your time at the event.

General Admission

Individual Admission

$199

Table of Ten Admission

$1,899

Sponsors & Partners

We appreciate our supporters

The US – Africa Non-Oil Trade & Investment Forum offer premium sponsorship opportunities, allowing organizations to:

  • Showcase their brand to high-level finance professionals and policymakers.
  • Gain visibility among Africa’s most influential financial leaders.
  • Participate in exclusive networking and business matchmaking sessions.

For partnership and sponsorship inquiries, please contact: events@africanleadership.co.uk

Founding Partner

Supporting Partner

Conclusion

Join the Movement

The US – Africa Non-Oil Trade & Investment Forum will take place on 27-28 November 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. The event will be hybrid, with both in-person and virtual attendance options, ensuring a global audience can participate.

Whether you are a business leader, investor, policymaker, or entrepreneur, this is your opportunity to be part of a transformative movement. Together, we can build bridges, drive diversification, and unlock new horizons for US-Africa trade.

The future of US-Africa trade lies in diversification, innovation, and collaboration. The US – Africa Non-Oil Trade & Investment Forum will serve as a catalyst for this transformation, bringing together the brightest minds and boldest ideas to shape a more prosperous and sustainable future.

For inquiries and sponsorship opportunities, contact:
Ehis Ayere
events.@africanleadership.co.uk
+44 20 3051 1883

Supporting Partner

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African Free Trade & Special Economic Zones Administration Masterclass

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