African Futures Conference 2025: Call for contributions

The African Futures Conference is the leading platform for African-led foresight. From 21–22 October 2025, policymakers, analysts, researchers, young changemakers, and foresight practitioners will gather for two days of bold thinking, rigorous analysis and practical collaboration. The theme Insight, Imagination, Action highlights that sustainable African futures must be evidence-based, creatively envisioned, and translated into impact.

Objectives

The conference strengthens African foresight and long-term planning by showcasing practical examples, innovative tools, and inclusive narratives that bridge quantitative and qualitative approaches. It demonstrates how strategic insight drives real-world impact through tools, stories, and partnerships. The event amplifies African changemakers’ voices, connects researchers with policymakers, and launches the African Futures Network to foster lasting collaboration.

Call for contributions: share your ideas!

We are seeking proposals for talks, sessions, creative showcases or tools that fit within one or more of our three conference pillars:

• Insight: Grounding African futures in evidence and analysis
• Imagination: Envisioning futures through creative storytelling
• Action: Embedding foresight in policy, governance and practice

Young changemakers competition

We are offering young (below the age of 35) the opportunity to submit innovative and creative contributions. Submit and share your vision of Africa’s future in 2050.

• Format: 1 500-word written story (Word or PDF) or 3-minute video (MP4)
• Prize: Top 3 winners invited to attend in-person in Pretoria

Submission formats

• Lightning talk (7min)
• Presentation (15min)
• Workshop (45min)

Who should apply?

Policymakers, researchers, data scientists, civil society leaders, young changemakers, and anyone building Africa’s future through foresight.

How to apply

Submit via our online form by 26 August 2025 with:

• Name, affiliation and contact details
• Preferred format: Lightning talk / Presentation / Hosted workshop / Changemakers submission
• Which pillar(s) does/do your contribution fit: Insight/Imagination/Action
• Title and abstract (max 300 words)

Key dates

• Deadline for submissions: 26 August 2025
• Notification of acceptance: 10 September 2025
• Conference dates: 21–22 October 2025