CAPE TOWN, South Africa, October 23, 2025/APO Group: The Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) Conference and Exhibition event will kick off from October 30-31 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), South Africa.
AWIEF2025 will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, corporate executives, and development partners from across Africa and the diaspora for two days of high-level dialogue, innovation showcases, and collaboration — focusing on advancing women’s economic empowerment and leadership on the continent.
The 2025 edition will have as its theme, “Breaking the Barriers: Now More Than Ever”, discussing the various challenges facing women in business — from financing and digital transformation to sustainability and policy reform — while celebrating innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth.
“I’m excited to be part of AWIEF2025 because it’s a powerful platform that amplifies women’s leadership and innovation across Africa. It offers an incredible opportunity to connect, collaborate, and drive real impact in shaping a more inclusive and prosperous future,” commented the Secretary General, Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Fatima Elsheikh.
“AWIEF is a dynamic platform that empowers women entrepreneurs and drives inclusive economic growth across Africa. It aligns with our mission to support small businesses, foster innovation, and create sustainable opportunities for South African entrepreneurs,” added the Deputy Minister, Department of Small Business Development, South Africa, Hon. Jane Sithole.
The Opening Keynote will be delivered by Dr. Fatima Elsheikh, setting the tone for a transformative conference with several highlights such as sessions on AI and the Future of Work, Mobilizing Capital for Women Entrepreneurs, Africa’s Green Transition, and Harnessing the AfCFTA for Intra-African Trade.
AWIEF2025 will see more than 70 powerful and high-profile African and global thought leaders across business, development, and politics who will share insights and thought leadership during the conference, spanning across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas — reinforcing AWIEF’s position as a truly pan-African and global platform connecting women entrepreneurs and leaders to opportunity and impact.
