The 13th Manufacturing Indaba has successfully concluded following two impactful days of dialogue, collaboration and business engagement at the Sandton Convention Centre, bringing together government leaders, manufacturers, investors, policymakers, industry experts and innovators from across Africa under the theme “Made in Africa: Scaling Growth and Shaping Trade.”
The event once again reaffirmed its position as Africa’s leading manufacturing conference and exhibition, providing a platform for meaningful discussions on industrialisation, regional trade, investment, technology adoption and the future of manufacturing on the continent.
Over the course of the two-day event, delegates participated in high-level conference sessions, networking opportunities, business matchmaking engagements and an expansive exhibition showcasing innovative products, technologies and services that are driving manufacturing competitiveness across Africa.
A key highlight of this year’s Manufacturing Indaba was the participation of Deputy President Paul Mashatile, whose keynote address underscored government’s commitment to advancing industrial development, localisation, infrastructure investment and economic growth through a stronger manufacturing sector. Senior government leaders, policymakers and industry stakeholders echoed the need for greater collaboration between the public and private sectors to unlock Africa’s manufacturing potential.
Addressing delegates, Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition John Steenhuisen called for Africa to shift from exporting raw materials to producing higher-value manufactured goods.
“Africa should increasingly trade in value-added products rather than just exporting raw materials and importing finished goods. Africa must transition from merely being the source of raw materials to becoming the manufacturing powerhouse,” said Steenhuisen.
Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa highlighted the central role of energy security in enabling industrial growth, noting that expanding electricity generation and strengthening transmission infrastructure are essential to creating the stable energy environment manufacturers need to invest, expand production and compete globally.
Throughout the conference, experts explored critical issues shaping the future of manufacturing, including:
- Industrial policy and economic resilience
- Regional trade opportunities through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
- Investment and access to finance
- Localisation and supply chain development
- Digital transformation, automation and artificial intelligence
- Energy security and sustainable manufacturing
- Skills development and the future workforce
- Manufacturing competitiveness across African markets
The exhibition floor served as a vibrant marketplace where exhibitors connected directly with decision-makers, procurement professionals and investors, creating new commercial opportunities and partnerships that will continue long after the event.
Speaking on the success of this year’s event, Liz Hart, Managing Director of Manufacturing Indaba, said:
“Manufacturing Indaba 2026 demonstrated the incredible momentum that exists across Africa’s manufacturing sector. The conversations held over the past two days were focused not only on identifying challenges but, more importantly, on implementing practical solutions that will strengthen industrial growth, increase investment and expand intra-African trade. The collaboration we have witnessed between government, industry and investors reinforces our belief that Africa’s manufacturing future is bright.”
This year’s theme, “Made in Africa: Scaling Growth and Shaping Trade,” resonated throughout the programme, highlighting the importance of building resilient local industries capable of supplying domestic markets while competing globally.
The event also showcased how emerging technologies, innovation and strategic partnerships are transforming manufacturing operations, improving productivity and positioning African manufacturers to take advantage of new regional and international market opportunities.
Manufacturing Indaba extends its sincere appreciation to all sponsors, partners, exhibitors, speakers, delegates, government representatives, media partners and industry associations whose support contributed to the success of the event.
As the conversations sparked over the past two days continue to translate into partnerships, investments and policy action, Manufacturing Indaba remains committed to supporting Africa’s industrialisation journey and creating platforms that accelerate manufacturing growth across the continent.
The momentum continues with Automation Day, taking place on 16 July 2026, where industry leaders will explore the technologies, automation strategies and digital innovations shaping the next generation of African manufacturing.
Planning is already underway for the next edition of Manufacturing Indaba, which will continue to champion industrial growth, innovation and collaboration across Africa.