Africa Philanthropy Forum./PHOTO;APF
Philanthropists, funders and social impact leaders from Africa and the Global South will gather in Cape Town, South Africa, in October for the 2026 African Philanthropy Forum (APF) Conference, a platform aimed at exploring new ways of strengthening collaboration and financing for development.
The conference, scheduled for October 25 to 27, will be held under the theme “Bridge the Divide; Reimagine the Future,” and will focus on how philanthropy can respond to changing global challenges while supporting solutions shaped by communities and local leaders.
The event will bring together actors from across the philanthropy and development sectors to exchange ideas, build partnerships and discuss approaches that can improve the impact of giving.
Discussions will centre on issues such as leadership, sustainable funding models, collaboration between sectors and the future of African-led development.
Through keynote sessions, panel discussions, workshops and networking engagements, participants will explore how philanthropy can move beyond traditional approaches and play a stronger role in addressing social and economic challenges facing communities.
The conference comes amid growing conversations around the need for stronger local ownership of development efforts and increased investment in solutions led by African organisations and communities.
Across the continent, philanthropy actors have increasingly called for funding approaches that recognise local expertise and strengthen long-term impact.
Founded in 2014, the African Philanthropy Forum works to connect philanthropists, social investors and development leaders while promoting strategic giving and collaboration across Africa.
The 2026 gathering will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on the changing landscape of philanthropy and explore new partnerships aimed at building more inclusive and sustainable futures.
