African Diaspora and Development Day (AD3) 2026

Join diaspora leaders, investors and changemakers shaping Africa's future through investment, enterprise and collective action.
About this Event

African Diaspora and Development Day (AD3) 2026 - Africa Reimagined: Collective Action for a New Era

How the Next Generation of Diaspora Investors Can Drive Decent Job Creation, Employability and Growth in Africa

African Diaspora and Development Day (AD3) is AFFORD's flagship annual convening, bringing together diaspora leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, policymakers, development practitioners, academics, and ecosystem builders committed to advancing Africa's growth through collective action.

Now in its 25th year, AD3 has become one of the leading platforms for dialogue, collaboration, and practical engagement around diaspora participation in Africa's development. This year's event will explore how the next generation of diaspora can contribute to job creation, employability, enterprise growth, and long-term economic transformation across the continent.

Importantly, AD3 recognises that diaspora investment extends beyond financial capital alone. It includes the investment of skills, expertise, mentorship, networks, innovation, and leadership that help unlock opportunities and strengthen development outcomes across Africa.

What to Expect

Participants will benefit from:

• A practical Diaspora Investor Essentials Masterclass, delivered in partnership with ARK Group International, providing participants with actionable insights into diaspora investment pathways, and mechanisms for engaging more effectively in Africa's growth and development.
• High-level keynote and panel discussions featuring leading voices from across the diaspora, investment, development, and policy ecosystem;
• Intergenerational dialogue exploring how established and emerging diaspora leaders can work together to shape Africa's future;
• Practical showcases of diaspora investment initiatives, enterprise platforms, and development solutions already driving impact;
• Networking opportunities with investors, entrepreneurs, policymakers, development partners, and changemakers;
• The launch of new initiatives and pathways designed to strengthen diaspora participation beyond the event itself; and
• Opportunities to engage with a growing ecosystem committed to translating ideas into practical action.

Who Should Attend?

AD3 is designed for:

• Diaspora investors and entrepreneurs;
• Business leaders and professionals;
• Policymakers and government representatives;
• Development partners and international organisations;
• Students and emerging leaders;
• Academics and researchers;
• Diaspora organisations and community leaders; and
• Anyone interested in the future of diaspora engagement and Africa's growth.

Whether you are already actively engaged in Africa's development or looking for practical ways to contribute, AD3 2026 offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, collaborate, and become part of a growing movement shaping a new era of diaspora participation across the continent.