Business and political leaders called for stronger regional integration and larger African-owned companies during a summit in Kigali, Rwanda.

This push for scale aims to transform Africa from a collection of fragmented markets into a united economic force capable of attracting significant global investment.

The 13th Africa CEO Forum [1] took place from May 14 to 15, 2026 [2]. The event brought together thousands of delegates [3] to discuss the necessity of shared ownership and the expansion of domestic enterprises. Among the high-profile attendees was President Bola Tinubu, who arrived in Rwanda earlier this week to participate in the discussions [4].

Participants focused on the need for African companies to reach a size that allows them to compete on a global stage. The forum addressed the structural barriers that often prevent local businesses from scaling across borders, a challenge that leaders said hinders the continent's overall economic growth.

While some reports described the forum's theme as "Scale or Fail" [2], others identified it as "The Scale Imperative: Why Africa Must Embrace Shared Ownership" [3]. Despite the difference in phrasing, the central objective remained the same: moving toward a more integrated economic framework.

Delegates emphasized that without regional cooperation, individual markets remain too small to sustain the growth required for industrialization. By coordinating policies and removing trade barriers, leaders said the continent could better leverage its resources, and human capital, to build competitive industries.

“leaders called for stronger regional integration and larger African‑owned companies to compete globally”

The emphasis on 'scale' reflects a strategic shift toward reducing reliance on foreign conglomerates by fostering home-grown champions. By prioritizing regional integration, African leaders are attempting to operationalize the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to create a single market that provides the necessary volume for local companies to achieve economies of scale.