Key trends, risks, and opportunities for Africa’s future: Foresight Africa 2026

Thursday, January 15, 2026, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. EST 
Online: https://www.brookings.edu/events/key-trends-risks-and-opportunities-for-africas-future-foresight-africa-2026 

2025 was an impactful year for Africa. Last year saw increased regional integration under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area, pivotal national elections in many countries, and South Africa hosting the first G20 Summit on the African continent. At the same time, African economies have been adapting to dramatic global changes, such as steep cuts to international aid and new tariff polices from the United States. 

On January 15, the Africa Growth Initiative at Brookings will launch its 2026 Foresight Africa report, in which the implications of these changes will be analyzed by top experts on and off the continent. Join us for an in-depth discussion on the top priorities and trends that will shape Africa in 2026—from reforming development financing to establishing Africa’s place in a changing global order.

Online viewers can submit questions via e-mail to events@brookings.edu or by using #ForesightAfrica on X or Bluesky. For media inquiries, please contact globalmedia@brookings.edu.