Africa faces persistent challenges such as inadequate access to finance, high unemployment, and social inequality. Conventional financial systems often fall short in addressing these issues, particularly among rural and underserved populations. Islamic finance, rooted in ethical principles of risk-sharing, social responsibility, and prohibiting exploitative practices, offers alternative pathways to economic empowerment and community development.
Moreover, as the global Islamic finance industry continues to grow—surpassing $3.7 trillion by 2024—Africa has the potential to become a hub for this sector, particularly in regions with significant Muslim populations. The African International Conference on Islamic Finance 2025 aims to bridge this gap by fostering deeper engagement with Islamic finance across African economies.
The African International Conference on Islamic Finance (AICIF) brings together thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and academics to explore the role of Islamic finance in driving sustainable economic growth, fostering community development, and creating lasting social impact across Africa. Set against the backdrop of rapid economic transformation in the continent, Islamic finance offers innovative and ethical solutions to address pressing challenges like poverty, financial inclusion, and equitable growth.
Scheduled for November 2025, this conference highlights the potential of Islamic finance to not only stimulate economic development but also to empower communities, build collaborative partnerships, and catalyze impactful investment, and will focus on leveraging Islamic finance for community development, sustainable growth, and impact-driven investments
AICIF proposes to feature a pitch competition aimed at supporting innovative ventures, where a non-profit social impact organization and a halal tech startup will each win a N5 million grant, further aligning with the conference’s focus on social responsibility and ethical innovation. The Pitch Competition will spotlight pioneering ventures that align with Islamic finance principles and drive positive social impact. The competition features two categories—Non-Profit Social Impact Organization and Halal Tech Startup—with each winner receiving a N5 million grant to support and scale their initiatives. By showcasing innovative, Shariah-compliant solutions, the competition will to encourage ethical practices that address Africa’s economic and social challenges. Finalists will go through a screening process and finalists will present their projects to a panel of experts, gaining exposure, mentorship, and the opportunity to further their impact.
