Washburn University to host conference for African business, development leaders

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Washburn University will host a conference for African business and development leaders.

According to Washburn University, Africa’s business and development efforts will set up shop in Kansas for a week as Washburn University hosts the Academy of African Business and Development conference on May 14-18. The annual event assembles scholars across various disciplines to discuss and shape policies impacting business and development in Africa.

Washburn University officials said this year’s conference theme, “Sustainable Development – Stakeholder Engagement and Participation,” aims to explore stakeholder engagement and their crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals, both in Africa and in the global economy.

Officials with Washburn University indicated Dr. Norma Juma, Brenneman Professor of Business Strategy at Washburn University and current vice president of finance for AABD, serves as conference co-chair along with Dr. Dmitri Nizovtsev, professor and associate dean of the Washburn University School of Business. Juma says it takes a community effort to organize a conference of this caliber.

“This year, we are excited to welcome more than 80 participants from 14 countries, including Mandela Washington Fellows, Fulbright fellows, business researchers and medical professionals,” Juma said. “This diverse participation highlights the significance of interdisciplinary efforts in tackling global issues.”

Washburn University officials said in the past, many renowned institutions have hosted the AABD Conference including the University of East London, MacEwan University in Canada, George State University and University of Florida. Notably, the keynote speaker at the 2022 conference was Nana Akufo-Addo, the current president of Ghana.

“We are pleased that Washburn University is sponsoring and hosting such an important academic conference, now in its 24th year,” said Dr. David Sollars, dean of Washburn University School of Business. “As an institution, we understand the importance of learning across international borders. It is also great that we can show off our beautiful campus and vibrant city to visitors from around the world.

Washburn University officials noted conference highlights include keynote speeches, interactive workshops and a social event at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park in Topeka. Learn more about the conference HERE.