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The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) strengthened its engagement in global economic policy discussions as a co-convenor of the 2026 Africa at the World Bank/IMF Annual Meetings, held in Bangkok, Thailand hosted and convened by Nkafu Policy Institute and Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation
The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) strengthened its engagement in global economic policy discussions as a co-convenor of the 2026 Africa at the World Bank/IMF Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Thailand. The gathering was hosted and convened by the Nkafu Policy Institute and the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation, bringing together stakeholders to discuss Africa’s economic priorities and development prospects.
Representing CSEA, Executive Director Dr. Chukwuka Onyekwena participated in a panel session titled “Africa-Asia Trade and Digital Connectivity,” contributing to discussions on strengthening trade relations and leveraging digital connectivity to expand economic opportunities between Africa and Asia.
A major highlight of the meetings was the recognition of CSEA’s founder, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), with the 2026 Trailblazer for Africa Award on October 14. The award recognises her leadership and contributions to Africa’s economic transformation and development.
For CSEA, these milestones reflect the Centre’s continued role in advancing evidence-informed policy dialogue and strengthening Africa’s voice in global economic conversations. They also highlight the value of bringing research institutions and policymakers together to address the continent’s development priorities.
Award and Recognition
The founder of the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, received the Trailblazer for Africa Award, in recognition of her achievements in global economic leadership, debt relief and development, on the 14th of October, 2026, highlighting Africa’s influence in shaping institutions and policies.
The award was conferred by the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation and the Nkafu Policy Institute, together with their policy partners: PEP - Partnership for Economic Policy, the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET), and the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa.
