AMC–TICON Africa 2025 ends with strategic dialogues on empowering Africa’s tech

The African Marketing Confederation (AMC) and Technology Information Confederation Africa (TICON Africa) are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the AMC–TICON Africa 2025 Joint Conference, held from August 20–22 at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, Ghana. Co-hosted by the Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana (CIMG) and the Institute of ICT Professionals Ghana (IIPGH). The conference brought together over 500 delegates from across Africa and beyond, marking a significant milestone in the continent’s journey toward digital transformation, inclusive trade, and cross-sectoral collaboration.

This year’s conference was guided by two powerful themes: ‘Thriving in Africa’s Evolving Markets: Trust, Trends, and Technology’ from AMC, and ‘Empowering Africa’s Tech Future: Innovation, Standards, and Global Influence’ from TICON Africa. These themes converged to create a dynamic platform for dialogue, learning, and strategic partnerships between marketing and technology professionals, policymakers, academics, and business leaders.

The opening plenary set the tone for the conference with a series of impactful addresses. Mr. Michael Abbiw, President of CIMG, welcomed delegates and introduced AMC President Helen McIntee, while Mr. Richard Kafui Amanfu, Executive Director of IIPGH, introduced Mr. David Gowu, President of TICON Africa. Both leaders delivered concise and powerful remarks, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in shaping Africa’s digital and marketing future.

Dr. Stephane Nwolly, CEO of Npontu Technologies, welcomed delegates on behalf of Ghana’s business community, followed by a keynote address from Mr. Charles Murito, Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at Google, who shared insights on Africa’s digital potential and the role of global partnerships. Mr. Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, delivered the traditional “Akwaaba” welcome, celebrating Ghana’s hospitality and cultural richness.

Representing the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Hon. Mohammed Adams Sukparu, Deputy Minister, delivered the Special Guest of Honour’s speech and officially declared the conference open. The plenary concluded with a compelling address by Prof. Ebo Hinson, who reflected on the evolution of the conference and its impact on professional development across the continent.

Following the plenary, delegates participated in domain-specific breakout sessions—AMC for marketing professionals and TICON for ICT experts. These sessions featured high-level presentations and panel discussions on topics such as brand trust, digital transformation, fintech, smart infrastructure, cybersecurity, and AI adoption. Speakers included renowned experts from across Africa and the global stage, offering diverse perspectives and actionable insights.

The conference also featured exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge African innovations, and the launch of collaborative initiatives between academia, industry, and government. These engagements underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in driving sustainable development and digital inclusion.

Among the standout keynote speakers were Girish Sharma, Managing Director & CEO of Guinness Nigeria, and Prof. Douglas Boateng, Africa’s first Professor of Supply Chain Management. Their presentations offered deep insights into the intersection of marketing, supply chain, and technology across Africa. Mr. Sharma emphasized the importance of brand trust and consumer engagement in evolving markets, while Prof. Boateng highlighted the strategic role of supply chain innovation in driving sustainable growth and competitiveness across the continent.

On the technology front, Prof. Anthony Wong, President of the International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP), led a high-level panel discussion on AI and Data Governance, exploring the ethical, regulatory, and strategic dimensions of emerging technologies in Africa. His session sparked critical dialogue on how African nations can shape responsible AI ecosystems that reflect local values and global standards.

In a significant gesture of support for capacity-building, Joice Benza, Vice President of IFIP, presented scholarships to three professionals from member associations—Institute of ICT Professionals Ghana, ICT Association of Uganda (ICTAU), and ICT Association of Malawi (ICTAM). These scholarships will support master’s degree studies in emerging technology domains, reinforcing IFIP’s commitment to nurturing Africa’s next generation of digital leaders.

Evening activities added cultural depth to the experience. Curated by the Ghana Tourism Authority, delegates enjoyed guided tours of Osu Castle, Independence Square, and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park. The cultural night and beach party celebrated Ghana’s heritage through music, dance, and cuisine, fostering camaraderie and cross-cultural exchange among participants.

The closing plenary reunited marketing and technology professionals for a final session that highlighted the importance of innovation and academic leadership. MTN Ghana presented its new application, MTN Ads, showcasing how telecoms are evolving to support digital marketing. Prof. Fred McBagonluri, President and Provost of Academic City University and Board Chair of IIPGH, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the role of academic innovation, regulatory alignment, and data governance in shaping Africa’s digital future.

The conference culminated in a vibrant Awards and Gala Night, celebrating excellence and leadership across both sectors. Prof. Nii Narku Quaynor, widely recognized as the Father of the Internet in Africa, received a Lifetime Achievement Award. AMC President Helen McIntee and TICON Africa Founder Nigel Tattersall were honoured with honorary lifetime awards by the Chartered Institute of Marketers UK for their exceptional contributions to the marketing profession in Africa.

Zambia and Uganda emerged as a standout performers for technology and Marketing respectively, winning eleven awards. The ICT Association of Zambia (ICTAZ) was named Best ICT Professional Body, reflecting its commitment to capacity-building and innovation. In a heartfelt moment, Mr. David Gowu, President of TICON Africa, received a special citation from Mr. Richard Kafui Amanfu on behalf of the TICON Africa leadership, recognizing his unwavering dedication to the TICON movement and Pan-African digital transformation.

The conference concluded with the announcement of the next host country for AMC–TICON Africa 2026. After a rigorous selection process involving Malawi, Zambia, and Botswana, Zambia was officially declared the next destination. The baton was ceremonially handed over from IIPGH to ICTAZ, symbolizing continuity and shared responsibility in advancing Africa’s tech and marketing agenda.

AMC–TICON Africa 2025 has set a new benchmark for excellence, collaboration, and innovation. Delegates departed with renewed energy, actionable insights, and strengthened networks, reaffirming Africa’s readiness to lead in marketing and digital transformation. The conference also laid the groundwork for future engagements, including policy roundtables, digital literacy programs, and regional innovation hubs.

Organizers expressed profound gratitude to all partners, sponsors, speakers, and participants for their commitment to building a digitally empowered Africa. The success of the Accra edition reflects the power of unity, vision, and shared purpose in driving the continent forward.