Navigating Africa’s future: forecasting development trends and opportunities

Effective forecasting and strategic planning will allow Africa to navigate a future of rapid change and complex challenges.

Date: 2024-10-29

Time: 10:00 to 18:00

Venue: Online via AFI Zoom

RSVP: Register to attend online

Join us for the inaugural African Futures conference on 29 October, when 22 carefully selected speakers will present an array of forecasts, scenarios and research across six themes on Africa’s long-term future.

The conference aims to enhance forecasting methodologies for African contexts, identify trends and challenges, establish a network of practitioners, and generate insights to drive sustainable development and resilience across the continent.

The conference will conclude with an introductory training session on the International Futures forecasting tool that underpins the ISS’ African Futures and Innovation programme’s work. The session will be hosted virtually by the University of Denver.

10:00–11:00 | Opening session | PLENARY

Introduction and opening remarks: Dr Fonteh Akum, Executive Director, Institute for Security Studies

Keynotes

Dr Jakkie Cilliers, Chairperson of the Board, Institute for Security Studies

Reshma Francy, Associate Director, Policy Pathfinding & Trilemma, World Energy Council, London

Bronwyn Williams, Partner, Flux Trends, South Africa

11:00–13:00 | Work, social and geo-political forecasting | BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Breakout 1: Exploring work, living, and social dynamics in the future

Breakout 2: Global power and geopolitical shifts: forecasting and foresight

13:30–15:00 | Political and energy transitions | BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Breakout 1: The future of peace, security and political transitions in Africa

Breakout 2: Energy transitions in Africa: pathways and scenario planning

15:15–16:45 | Education and environmental futures | BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Breakout 1: Methods and models for educational futures

Breakout 2: Environmental trends – foresight and forecasting methods

17:00–18:00 | Introduction to the IFs modelling platform | PLENARY