The 8th Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation Ministerial Conference opened on September 9, 2026, in Seoul under the theme of digital technology. Theme: “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Digital Infrastructure for Africa’s Transformation.” About forty African countries are attending.
Seoul wants to accelerate its partnership with Africa through artificial intelligence. KOAFEC 2026 was opened by Prime Minister Han Seong-sook, former head of Naver, the Korean tech giant. Her government has made AI and digital transformation strategic priorities.
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Co-chaired by the President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, and Korean Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yun-cheol, the conference brings together African ministers, multilateral institutions, investors, and startups from both continents.
For Dr. Ould Tah, participating in his first KOAFEC since taking office a year ago, the challenge is to reposition the partnership in a changing world. He will advocate the new strategic direction of the AfDB centered around the Four Cardinal Points and the New African Financial Architecture (NAFAD).
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NAFAD aims to mobilize African savings, transform the continent’s liquidity into productive investments, and reduce risks to attract international capital through co-investment.
At the conclusion of the work, a Final Declaration and a 2027-2028 Action Plan are expected to open a new chapter in Korea-Africa cooperation, betting on digital as a growth lever.
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