In a dynamic convergence of entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders, the tenth edition of the AFSIC – Investing in Africa conference held at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel in London marked a resurgence of energy post-COVID. With over 1,200 delegates, 350 speakers, and a formidable assembly of institutional investors managing assets exceeding $1 trillion, the event set the stage for two days of intensive networking, insightful presentations, and strategic discussions.
The AFSIC conference, evolving as a powerhouse for African investment discussions since its inception in 2013, has re-emerged stronger than ever, reflecting the resilience of star African economies. Last week’s event, from October 9-10, transformed the sprawling Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel into a bustling hub of entrepreneurial vigor.
The conference, spearheaded by seasoned organizer Rupert McCammon, former CEO of the Botswana Stock Exchange, has become a cornerstone for connecting investors and business leaders with lucrative opportunities across the African continent. The agenda, meticulously organized around key streams such as banking, informed investing, building, fintech innovation, sustainable growth, agriculture, and power, allowed top asset managers and industry experts to share insights into emerging trends.
Quickfire sessions, a highlight of the conference, provided a platform for over 70 entrepreneurs and promoters to deliver rapid 5-minute pitches, injecting a sense of urgency and excitement into the proceedings. The AFSIC African Investments Dashboard, boasting over 1,000 investor-ready projects, took center stage during these sessions, showcasing a plethora of opportunities.
The conference app facilitated myriad meeting options, including one-on-one sessions and informal gatherings spread across the hotel’s multiple floors. This setup not only fostered an atmosphere conducive to networking but also allowed potential investors to engage with management in more relaxed settings.
AFSIC’s impact resonates across various investment landscapes, generating deal flows that span from start-ups seeking venture capital to significant development projects. Investors, ranging from development finance institutions (DFIs) and international finance institutions (IFIs) to private equity and venture funds, foundations, family offices, and impact funds, actively participated in discussions and exploration of opportunities.
In a world where the investment horizon is evolving, AFSIC London 2023 proved to be a nexus where synergies between entrepreneurial visionaries and seasoned investors converged, laying the groundwork for a new wave of investment dynamics in the African context.
