Daniel Nyionkuru
Several African heads of state and senior government officials have begun arriving in Rwanda to attend the Africa CEO Forum 2026, an international conference scheduled to take place at the Kigali Convention Centre from May 14 to 15, 2026.
Among those who have already arrived in Kigali are President Ahmed Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, Daniel Francisco Chapo of Mozambique, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania, and Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema of Gabon. President Tinubu was received at Kigali International Airport by Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, while other leaders were welcomed by various members of the Rwandan Government.
The forum is expected to bring together more than 2,800 participants, including heads of state, government officials, investors, top business executives, and development partners from across Africa. Other leaders expected to attend include President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, William Ruto of Kenya, and Mamadi Doumbouya of Guinea.
The opening session will feature a discussion between President Kagame and key figures in investment and economics, including Jean Guy Afrika, who leads the Rwanda Development Board, as well as Makhtar Diop and Amir Ben Yahmed. Many sessions will focus on investment opportunities across Africa and on how the private sector can play a greater role in driving the continent’s economic growth.
Among the other planned sessions is one dedicated to investment opportunities specifically in Rwanda, which will be attended by representatives from the Rwanda Development Board, Zipline, the Rwanda Social Security Board, and major companies operating in the energy, mining, and infrastructure sectors.
On the sports side, Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, will hold discussions with partners on how sports infrastructure and international competitions can help boost the economy, both nationally and across the wider region.
Also expected at the forum is Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary-General of the International Organisation of La Francophonie, who has already arrived in Rwanda to participate in sessions focused on strengthening cooperation between governments and the private sector to promote investment and economic development in Africa.
The organizers say that Africa CEO Forum 2026 will provide an opportunity for leaders to collectively explore how Africa can continue building its economy through stronger partnerships, sustainable investment, and developing the capabilities of its nations.
Muhire Obed
RUSAGARA MUVUNANKIKO Valens
