Welcome to AKAC 2026
Africa is moving. Africa is improving. And in October 2026, Africa will gather in Mauritius for the most important productivity event of the year.
The Africa Kaizen Annual Conference (AKAC) 2026 is the continent’s premier platform for governments, businesses, researchers and practitioners to come together, share experiences and accelerate the adoption of Kaizen — the philosophy of continuous improvement — as a driver of productivity and sustainable development.
Hosted by the National Productivity and Competitiveness Council (NPCC) of Mauritius, AKAC 2026 will bring together delegates from across Africa and beyond for two days of high-level dialogue, practical workshops, inspiring keynotes and powerful networking.
CONFERENCE AT A GLANCE Event: Africa Kaizen Annual Conference 2026 |
About the Conference
Background
The Africa Kaizen Annual Conference (AKAC) is a flagship continental event dedicated to promoting Kaizen — the Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement — as a transformative tool for productivity, quality and sustainable economic growth across Africa.
Established under the framework of the Africa Kaizen Initiative (AKI), AKAC brings together national productivity organisations, government ministries, private sector leaders, development partners, academia and international experts each year to reflect on progress, share best practices and chart the way forward for productivity-led development on the continent.
Conference Objectives
• Advance the adoption of Kaizen and continuous improvement methodologies across African enterprises and public institutions
• Foster knowledge exchange between African and international productivity practitioners
• Highlight case studies and success stories that inspire replication and scaling
• Strengthen collaboration between national productivity organisations and regional bodies
• Support the alignment of productivity strategies with continental development frameworks such as Agenda 2063
Conference Theme 2026
Sustainable Kaizen for a Competitive and Connected Africa
The theme for AKAC 2026 reflects the aspirations of African nations to leverage productivity and continuous improvement as pathways to inclusive and sustainable growth.
Format
• Keynote addresses by high-level government officials and international thought leaders
• Thematic sessions on productivity, quality, innovation and digital transformation
• Practical workshops and Kaizen case study presentations
• Networking sessions and bilateral meetings
• AKAC Awards Ceremony recognising excellence in Kaizen implementation
About the Host Country — Mauritius
Mauritius is a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 2,000 km off the south-east coast of Africa. Known for its political stability, multicultural society and open economy, Mauritius has established itself as one of Africa’s most competitive and business-friendly destinations.
Why Mauritius?
Strategic Location A natural bridge between Africa and Asia, Mauritius offers excellent connectivity with regular flights to major African, Asian and European cities. Safe & Stable Mauritius ranks consistently among Africa’s top countries for political stability, rule of law and ease of doing business. World-Class Infrastructure Modern conference facilities, international-standard hotels and well-developed transport infrastructure ensure a seamless delegate experience. | Multicultural Hospitality A melting pot of African, Asian and European cultures, Mauritius offers warm hospitality, diverse cuisine and a rich cultural heritage. Tourism Destination With its pristine beaches, lush landscapes and vibrant culture, Mauritius offers delegates a unique and memorable experience beyond the conference halls. Productivity Champion Mauritius, through the NPCC, has been at the forefront of Kaizen promotion and productivity improvement in Africa, making it the ideal host for this continental gathering. |
About the Host Organisation — NPCC
The National Productivity and Competitiveness Council (NPCC) is Mauritius’ national body responsible for promoting productivity, quality and continuous improvement across all sectors of the economy. The NPCC has been a leading advocate for Kaizen in Africa and has collaborated extensively with regional and international organisations to drive the continent’s productivity agenda.
Conference Programme
AKAC 2026 will be a two-day conference featuring a rich and diverse programme designed to inspire, inform and connect participants from across Africa and the world. The full and detailed programme will be published closer to the conference date.
CONFERENCE DETAILS
Dates: 26 – 27 October 2026
Venue: The Ravenala Attitude Hotel, Mauritius
Format: Hybrid
Additional Notes: Capacity Enhancement Programme for AKI members will be held on 28 – 29 October 2026 (onsite).
Tentative Programme (subject to change)
Day 1 – Monday, 26 October 2026
Time | Session |
09:00 – 10:00 | Registration and |
10:00 (GMT+4) | Online Streaming Starts |
10:00– 10:30 | Official Opening Ceremony |
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10:30– 11.00 (30 mins) | Keynote Address, Mr. |
11:00– 11:15 | Coffee Break and Group |
11:15– 12:15 | Panel Discussion 1: |
Moderator: Mr. Jovin Hurry, Core Team Member, NELIS (Next Leaders’ Panel Members: • • • • • | |
12:15– 13:15 | Panel Discussion 2: From |
| Moderator: AUDA-NEPAD (TBC) Panel Members ·
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13:15– 13:30 | Wrap-Up of Morning |
13:30– 14:30 | Networking Lunch |
Day 1 Afternoon | |
Time | Session |
14:30– 14:45 | Announcement of Potential Centres of |
14:45– 17.00 | Africa Kaizen Awards (AKA) |
17.00-17.05 | Closing remarks by Cyprian |
| End of Day 1 |
Day 2 – Tuesday, 27 October 2026
(Half Day – Morning Session)
Time | Session |
08:30 – 09:00 | Arrival Coffee and |
09:00 – 10:00 | Panel Discussion 3: Kaizen |
| Moderator (TBC) Country Presentations Mauritius- NPCC South Africa -AIDC-EC Tunisia- Mr. Hosni Bel Haj Ethiopia- Mr. Jemil Abdala (Each presentation: |
10:00 (GMT+4) | Online Streaming Starts |
10:00 – 11:00 | Panel Discussion 4: |
| Moderator: Ms. Flore Panel Members
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11:00 – 11.45 | From Vision to Action: (Interactive Stakeholder |
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Break |
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12.00-12.30 | Closing Session |
| • Final Communiqué read by AUDA-NEPAD |
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| • Final Remarks- Dr Vinaye Ancharaz, |
12:30 – 13:30 | Lunch |
13:30 – 16:30 | Enterprise Visits for |
Meet Our Speakers
AKAC 2026 will feature a distinguished lineup of keynote speakers, session moderators, panelists and workshop facilitators drawn from government, the private sector, international organisations and academia across Africa and beyond.
Session Moderators
Experienced facilitators will guide thematic sessions, panel discussions and workshops, ensuring rich, structured and engaging conversations that generate actionable insights for participants.
Panelists
Representing diverse sectors and geographies, panelists will bring varied perspectives on the conference themes, sharing experiences, evidence and recommendations for advancing Kaizen across Africa.
International Experts & African Practitioners
AKAC 2026 will feature a strong contingent of both international Kaizen and productivity experts and African practitioners who have successfully implemented continuous improvement initiatives in real-world African contexts. Their practical insights will be among the most valuable contributions to the conference.
Who are Attending AKAC 2026?
Government & Public Sector • Ministers and senior government officials • Heads of national productivity and quality councils • Directors of planning and economic development ministries • Public service reform officers Private Sector & Entrepreneurs • Chief Executives and Senior Managers • SME owners and entrepreneurs • Quality and operations managers • HR and organisational development professionals | International & Development Organisations • UN agencies and development banks • Regional economic communities (AU, SADC, COMESA, etc.) • Bilateral and multilateral development partners Media & Civil Society • Journalists covering business and development • Civil society organisations working on economic empowerment |
Participating Countries
AKAC 2026 will bring together delegates from across the African continent and beyond. We anticipate representation from more than 30 countries, including members of the Africa Kaizen Initiative network and partner nations of the NPCC.
Visa Guidance
Mauritius operates a visa-on-arrival system for citizens of many countries. Citizens of certain countries may require a visa in advance. Delegates are advised to check their visa requirements early and apply in advance where necessary. Delegates requiring a visa in advance should apply at least 6–8 weeks before travel. For visa information, visit the Mauritius Immigration website or contact your nearestMauritius embassy or high commission.
Need a visa invitation letter?
Registered delegates who require an official invitation letter for visa application purposes may request one by emailing the secretariat with their full name, passport details, country of residence, and registration reference number.
Important Travel Advisory: Health and Entry Requirements for Participants
In line with the advice of the Ministry of Health and Wellness of Mauritius, all travellers to Mauritius are required to complete the All-In-One Travel Form and Health Declaration Form on https://safemauritius.govmu.org/ prior to embarkation.
In addition, non-Mauritian nationals who have travelled from, transited through, or been present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda, or South Sudan within the preceding 21 days, are temporarily prohibited from entering Mauritius, in accordance with the current public health measures.
Visa requirements
All participants are urgently requested to verify the visa requirements applicable to their nationality prior to making travel arrangements to Mauritius. Entry and visa requirements vary by country and the official country-wise list, together with entry information, is available on the Passport and Immigration Office, Mauritius website https://passport.govmu.org/passport/?page_id=605. Delegates are strongly encouraged to consult this information and complete any necessary visa formalities well in advance of their travel to ensure a smooth entry into Mauritius.
About the Venue
AKAC 2026 will be hosted at The Ravenala Attitude, a 4-star all-suite hotel nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Citron River on the north-west coast of Mauritius, in the village of Balaclava in Mauritius. The hotel sits on the island’s north-west coast, tucked between the sea and river, surrounded by emerald gardens and a backdrop of mountains. Part of the Attitude Hotels group, it reflects a commitment to sustainable tourism, offering delegates a setting that blends comfort, natural beauty and Mauritian hospitality — a fitting backdrop for a conference dedicated to Sustainable Kaizen and Africa’s productivity journey.
Venue Features
-Main plenary hall accommodating all delegate
-Dedicated breakout and workshop rooms
-Exhibition and networking space
-Media centre and press area
-On-site catering and refreshment stations
-Accessible facilities for delegates with special needs
-Wi-Fi connectivity
Accommodation
A selection of partner hotels has been identified in close proximity to the conference venue, offering a range of accommodation options at preferential rates for AKAC 2026 delegates. Accommodation must be booked directly with the hotel or through www.booking.com.
Transport & Travel
Getting to Mauritius
Mauritius is served by Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), located approximately 48 km from Port Louis, the capital city. The airport receives direct flights from major African, European and Asian hubs, including Johannesburg, Nairobi, Dubai, Paris, London and several other cities.
Airport Transfers
Delegates arriving at the airport will be welcomed by NPCC representatives and will have access to official conference shuttle services to partner hotels. Detailed transfer schedules and booking instructions will be provided.
Local Transport
Shuttle services between partner hotels and the conference venue will be provided on both conference days. Details will be communicated to registered delegates in advance of the event.
Our Sponsors & Partners
AKAC 2026 is made possible through the generous support of our partners and sponsors — organisations that share our commitment to advancing productivity, quality and continuous improvement across Africa.
We are proud to acknowledge the organisations that stand with us in making AKAC 2026 a continental milestone. Partner and sponsor logos, links and acknowledgements will be published on this page as partnerships are confirmed.
Announcements
20-05-26 – AKAC 2026 First Announcement (English version)
20-05-26 – AKAC 2026 Première Annonce (Version française)
Communiqués
Ebola Health Update – Notice from Ministry of Health and Wellness – Mauritius
Mise à jour sanitaire sur l’Ebola – Avis du ministère de la Santé et du Bien-être – Maurice
Photo & Video Gallery
This page will be the window into the energy, conversations and moments that define the Africa Kaizen Annual Conference 2026. Photos and videos will be updated in real time during the conference and will remain accessible for download and sharing after the event.
During the Conference — Live Updates
From opening ceremony to closing awards, our team will capture the key moments of AKAC 2026 and share them here in real time. Follow along remotely and experience the conference as it happens.
• Live photo stream — updated throughout both conference days
• Session highlights — key quotes, moments and insights from each session
• Behind the scenes — setup, networking moments and delegate experiences
Livestream & Virtual Access
WATCH LIVE — AKAC 2026
Selected plenary sessions and keynote addresses will be livestreamed and accessible to virtual participants. Livestream links will be published here and shared with registered virtual delegates before the event. [ Livestream links — [Date TBC] ]
Post-Event Recordings
After the conference, recordings of plenary sessions, keynote speeches and selected workshops will be made available on this page and on the NPCC’s YouTube channel. These recordings serve as a lasting resource for productivity practitioners and Kaizen enthusiasts across Africa and beyond.
AKAC 2026 Gallery
Photos and videos from previous editions of AKAC will be displayed here to provide context and inspire prospective delegates.
Photo Usage Policy
All photos and videos taken at AKAC 2026 by the official conference photographers are the property of the NPCC. They may be used freely for non-commercial purposes with appropriate attribution. Media organisations wishing to use high-resolution images for publication should contact the NPCC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about AKAC 2026 below. If your question is not addressed here, please contact us at the secretariat.
Registration & Participation
Q: Who are attending AKAC 2026?
A: AKAC 2026 will be attended by \government officials, private sector professionals, representatives of international organisations, academics, researchers and media. Anyone with an interest in productivity, Kaizen and continuous improvement is welcome to participate online.
Q: How do I register?
A: You can register online via the Registration page on this website. Complete the online form, submit your details and you will receive a confirmation email to attend the sessions virtually.
Q: Will the entire conference be available virtually?
A: Selected sessions will be livestreamed. Please check the Gallery / Lives page for livestream links.
Q: How will I receive my delegate information pack?
A: Your delegate information pack will be emailed to you prior to the conference. It includes the full programme, venue and hotel details, transport schedules, and all practical information you need.
Travel & Accommodation
Q: Do I need a visa to enter Mauritius?
A: Mauritius offers visa-on-arrival for citizens of many countries. However, some nationalities require a visa in advance. Please check with your nearest Mauritius embassy, high commission or the official Mauritius Immigration website to confirm your requirements. Click here for more information on visas.
Q: Can the secretariat provide an invitation letter for my visa application?
A: Yes. Registered delegates who require an official invitation letter for visa purposes may request one by emailing contact@npccmauritius.com with their full name, passport number, nationality, country of residence and registration reference.
Q: Will there be airport transfers?
A: Yes. Official conference shuttle services will be available from the airport to partner hotels on designated arrival days. Transfer schedules will be shared with registered delegates in advance.
Q: What is the weather like in Mauritius in October?
A: October marks the beginning of the warm season in Mauritius. Temperatures are typically between 23°C and 28°C (73°F–82°F). Light summer clothing is appropriate, with a light layer for air-conditioned conference rooms.
Conference Content & Logistics
Q: What language will the conference be conducted in?
A: AKAC 2026 will be conducted primarily in English, with French interpretation available for selected sessions. Delegates requiring interpretation in other languages should notify the secretariat in advance.
Q: Will conference materials be available after the event?
A: Yes. Presentations, reports and session recordings (where permitted by speakers) will be made available to registered delegates after the conference. These will be shared digitally via email and the conference website.
Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Business or smart casual attire is recommended for both conference days.
Q: What should I do if I have a disability or special requirement?
A: Please notify the secretariat of any accessibility requirements, dietary restrictions or special needs at the time of registration so we can make appropriate arrangements. We are committed to ensuring AKAC 2026 is accessible and welcoming for all delegates.
Get in Touch
The AKAC 2026 Secretariat is here to assist you with all queries related to registration, travel, the conference programme, partnerships and media. We aim to respond to all enquiries within two working days.
CONFERENCE SECRETARIAT
Organisation: National Productivity and Competitiveness Council (NPCC)
Address: 3rd Floor, The Catalyst
Silicon Avenue, Cybercity
Ebene 72201, Mauritius
General Enquiries: contact@npccmauritius.com
Telephone: +230 467 7700
Website: www.npccmauritius.org
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 08:30 – 16:00 (Mauritius Time, UTC+4)
