In a world of shifting alliances and great power competition, Africa is no longer content to be a passive player. This panel examines how African nations and leaders are designing partnerships on their own terms — balancing relationships with traditional Western allies, China, and emerging partners — to maximize the continent's strategic interests and economic sovereignty.

Cryptocurrency and stablecoins are emerging as powerful tools for solving some of Africa's most persistent financial challenges — from expensive cross-border remittances to volatile local currencies. This panel explores how crypto rails are being built across the continent, the regulatory landscape, and whether digital assets can deliver on their promise of a more inclusive and efficient African payments ecosystem.

Join Research ICT Africa (RiA) for a lunch-and-learn exploring how digital policy and ICT research are shaping Africa's technological future. Learn about the critical role of evidence-based research in driving digital inclusion and innovation across the continent.

Join Hakeem Belo-Osagie for a faculty address at the 28th Annual Africa Business Conference at Harvard Business School.