Johannesburg, South Africa: 14 January 2026: As Africa charts its path toward sustainable economic growth, manufacturing and industrialisation have emerged as the cornerstone of long-term development, job creation and economic resilience. Across the continent, governments and industry leaders are increasingly recognising that Africa’s future prosperity will depend on its ability to move beyond raw material exports toward value-added production, beneficiation and industrial capacity building.
Manufacturing is more than an economic sector — it is a catalyst for inclusive growth. It creates skilled employment, strengthens supply chains, boosts exports and supports the development of small and medium enterprises. Most importantly, it enables African economies to retain more value locally, reducing dependence on imports and increasing global competitiveness.
At the centre of this conversation is the Manufacturing Indaba, a leading platform dedicated to advancing Africa’s manufacturing agenda by bringing together policymakers, manufacturers, investors, suppliers and development partners to accelerate industrial growth across the continent.
Manufacturing as the Engine of Industrialisation
Industrialisation remains one of Africa’s most powerful tools for transforming economies. Countries with strong manufacturing bases are better positioned to withstand global shocks, diversify revenue streams and support growing populations.
Yet Africa’s manufacturing contribution to GDP remains significantly lower than global averages, constrained by challenges such as energy reliability, infrastructure gaps, skills shortages and limited access to finance. Addressing these barriers requires coordinated action between the public and private sectors — a role the Manufacturing Indaba has been designed to fulfil.
By convening decision-makers from across the manufacturing value chain, the Indaba facilitates practical dialogue on how to unlock industrial capacity and scale manufacturing across sectors including automotive, agro-processing, chemicals, metals, machinery, consumer goods and industrial equipment.
Enabling the Conditions for Manufacturing Growth
Reliable energy, efficient logistics and modern infrastructure are essential to industrial development. Without these foundations, manufacturers struggle to operate competitively and attract investment.
The Manufacturing Indaba highlights the interconnected nature of manufacturing, energy and infrastructure, recognising that industrial growth depends on integrated planning and investment. Discussions at the Indaba focus on improving energy security, strengthening transport corridors, developing industrial parks and special economic zones, and modernising ports and logistics networks. These enabling conditions are critical to creating a manufacturing ecosystem that supports both domestic production and export-led growth.
Mobilising Investment and Strengthening Supply Chains
Manufacturing growth requires capital — for plant expansion, technology upgrades, skills development and supply chain localisation. The Manufacturing Indaba serves as a meeting point for manufacturers and investors, enabling engagement around project financing, localisation strategies and industrial partnerships.
As global supply chains continue to evolve, Africa has an opportunity to position itself as a competitive manufacturing destination. By strengthening regional value chains and promoting intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), manufacturers can access new markets and reduce reliance on external suppliers.
The Indaba provides a platform for these conversations, supporting collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers and policymakers to build resilient, competitive supply chains across Africa.
Supporting Skills, Technology and Innovation
Industrialisation is not only about factories — it is about people, skills and innovation. A modern manufacturing sector requires a skilled workforce, access to advanced technologies and a culture of continuous improvement.
The Manufacturing Indaba addresses these needs by showcasing innovation, automation and digitalisation as key drivers of productivity and competitiveness. By promoting technology adoption and skills development, the Indaba supports the evolution of African manufacturing toward higher-value production and global standards.
A Platform for Africa’s Manufacturing Future
As Africa’s population grows and urbanises, the demand for locally produced goods will continue to rise. Manufacturing offers a pathway to meet this demand while creating jobs, supporting SMEs and strengthening economies.
The Manufacturing Indaba stands as a catalyst for this transformation — a platform where policy meets industry, challenges are addressed collaboratively, and opportunities for growth are realised.
By advancing industrialisation and strengthening manufacturing capacity, Africa can unlock inclusive growth and build a more resilient economic future. The Manufacturing Indaba is where that future begins.
