The World Economic Forum (WEF) confirmed that its Africa summit will return to South Africa in April 2027, after a hiatus of almost eight years. The meeting will take place in either Johannesburg or Cape Town, according to sources connected to the international organization.
South African Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille emphasized that the country's selection as host represents recognition of South Africa's ability to organize global events. She noted that the infrastructure for meetings, conferences, and exhibitions is ready to welcome delegations from across the continent.
Chido Munyati, the World Economic Forum's director for Africa, indicated that the summit will serve as a platform to discuss the region's economic challenges and attract international investment. This confirmation came during the Forum's recent annual meeting in Davos, which brings together business leaders and government representatives.
The last edition of the African forum was held in Cape Town in September 2019. Since then, the pandemic and global strategic adjustments forced the suspension of face-to-face meetings, thus interrupting a cycle that had begun in 1993 with itinerant events in different African cities.
The South African government emphasized that the summit will strengthen the country's international standing and provide an economic boost to key sectors such as tourism, trade, and services. Authorities are confident that the meeting will attract investment and collaborative opportunities across the continent.
Experts emphasize that the forum's return reflects Africa's growing importance in the global economy. The summit is expected to serve as a platform for discussing initiatives in renewable energy, technology, and sustainable development, further solidifying the continent's presence on the global agenda.
Source: xinhuanet.com