In an era defined by unprecedented global uncertainty and complexity, Africa is no longer merely a recipient of global business strategies but an active architect of innovative solutions that are reshaping international commerce, supply chains, and economic models. The continent’s unique economic, social, and institutional contexts offer invaluable empirical insights for advancing international business scholarship and challenging established paradigms in management science. With a combined GDP exceeding US$3 trillion, the world’s youngest population, and a demonstrated ability to leapfrog traditional development models, Africa is undoubtedly emerging as a critical player in shaping the future of global business.
Against this background, the 2026 AIB Africa conference provides a platform to advance business understanding by combining academic rigor with practical insights, leveraging Africa’s rich business contexts to develop knowledge that is both theoretically sound and practically relevant. The conference addresses the reality that uncertainty has become the new constant in global commerce. Rather than viewing volatility as an obstacle, we will examine how African markets, entrepreneurs, and institutions are developing adaptive strategies, resilient business models, and innovative approaches that not only transform the continent but also offer valuable lessons for global business leaders navigating an increasingly complex world. With 54 independent countries – each with a unique institutional framework – and demonstrated capacity for innovative business models, Africa offers unparalleled opportunities for rigorous academic inquiry and the development of theory.
Through a program that integrates scholarly presentations with practitioner panels, the conference will feature keynote addresses from leading international business (IB) academics, CEOs of major organizations, and policy makers, research workshops led by renowned scholars, executive roundtables facilitated by industry leaders, and collaborative sessions that bring together academics and practitioners to address complex business challenges. This hybrid approach aims to facilitate academic contributions that are both practically relevant and advance theoretical understanding through business insights.
Date: May 27th– 29th, 2026
Location: Strathmore University Business School, Nairobi, Kenya
Submission Deadline: February 2nd, 2026