Africa’s Project Delivery Landscape

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Following a successful gathering in Kigali, Rwanda, the Project Management Institute (PMI) Global Summit Series is set to convene in Cape Town, South Africa, from September 14-15, 2026. The event, hosted by PMI Sub-Saharan Africa at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, aims to address Africa’s project delivery challenges and foster collaborative innovation.

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The PMI Global Summit Series has established itself as the continent’s largest platform for advancing project delivery, leadership, and innovation. Cape Town, a recognized hub for business, infrastructure, and innovation, serves as an appropriate venue, reflecting the ambition required for transformative projects across Africa.

This year’s Summit carries the theme “Africa Delivers M.O.R.E Together.” This theme signifies a shift in project delivery, encouraging professionals to move beyond mere execution. M.O.R.E. represents a mindset focused on managing perceptions, owning success, responding to change, and considering the broader impact of projects.

The Deeper Meaning of M.O.R.E. in Africa

George Asamani, Managing Director of PMI Sub-Saharan Africa, highlights the theme’s specific resonance within the African context. He points to the continent’s history of progress built on partnership and shared purpose, citing regional blocs like ECOWAS, SADC, and EAC, alongside initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

This collective spirit aligns with the philosophy of Ubuntu, “I am because we are,” underscoring the interconnectedness of Africa’s success. The Summit aims to translate this philosophy into actionable strategies, bringing together governments, industries, and communities to deliver projects with lasting value.

Addressing the Project Pipeline and Talent Gap

Last year’s Summit in Kigali brought to light a critical challenge: Africa’s primary obstacle is not a lack of capital, but a shortage of “bankable projects” – well-prepared opportunities capable of attracting investment and delivering impact. This was a key message from leaders at the African Development Bank (AfDB).

Compounding this issue is a significant talent gap. PMI’s Talent Gap report projects a global need for 30 million additional project professionals by 2035. Sub-Saharan Africa alone faces a projected demand increase of up to 75%, emphasizing the urgent necessity to bolster project management capacity across the region.

“Without the right skills and capability, even the most promising initiatives stall,” Asamani states. “The Global Summit Series Cape Town is designed to change that, moving beyond conversation to build the talent and expertise Africa needs to deliver at scale.”

Lessons from Kigali and Future Focus

The Kigali Summit featured prominent speakers, including Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, then President of the African Development Bank, who stressed the importance of projects moving beyond planning to deliver tangible impact. Other notable speakers included representatives from the African Development Bank, Zipline Rwanda, the Government of Zambia, NASA, and influential figures like Nigerian artist and entrepreneur Banky W, and Guinness World Record holder Tunde Onakoya.

Academic perspectives were also shared by leaders from the University of Rwanda and UNISA, alongside Prof. Lavagnon Ika from the Telfer School of Management. These discussions centered on delivering complex projects in a dynamic environment, emphasizing collaboration, adaptability, and value-driven execution.

The Cape Town Summit will build upon these conversations, with a renewed focus on delivering impact at scale. Attendees can expect to explore practical tools for mega-project management, investigate AI applications in African infrastructure, and network with leading project delivery experts from the continent.

Redefining Project Success

Asamani emphasizes that the Summit will continue to redefine project success. In the current landscape, success is measured not just by timelines and budgets, but by the broader value created—whether in economic growth, social inclusion, environmental sustainability, or improved quality of life.

Early-bird registration for the Summit is now open, with discounted rates available until May 12, 2026. This event marks a decade of the PMI Global Summit Series in the region, tracing its journey from its first edition in Johannesburg to this significant gathering in Cape Town.

Looking Ahead

The Cape Town Summit is poised to be a critical inflection point for project delivery in Africa. With a clear focus on developing bankable projects and addressing the talent deficit, the event aims to translate the spirit of collaboration and shared purpose into tangible results. The discussions and practical insights shared will be crucial for navigating the complexities of large-scale development and driving sustainable growth across the continent. Attendees should anticipate actionable strategies and a renewed understanding of what constitutes true project success in the African context.

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“aigenerated_tags”: “Project Management, PMI Global Summit, Cape Town, Africa, Project Delivery, Innovation, Infrastructure, Talent Gap”,
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