By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider

The 12th annual Manufacturing Indaba Conference which took place from 15-16 July 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre. The conference was moderated by Kearney Principal,  Frances Phillips, who led a panel discussion on Trade, Supply Chains and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This conference served as a key event which discussed the future of African industrialisation in the modern era.

Frances Phillips is an expert in global management consultation and holds extensive knowledge of African trade and industry. Her role at Kearney, which is a leading management consulting firm, puts her in a unique position as leader in the industry, as she has a broad understanding of the complexities and opportunities presented by AfCFTA. 

The AfCFTA is a spearhead for African trade and industry, it is a transformative initiative which helps Africa reach economic integration and industrial development. It establishes the largest free trade area by member states, population, and geographic size. Key policy members as well as stakeholders are expected to participate at the Manufacturing Indaba Conference with discussions to be facilitated by Phillips.

Discussions will range from exploring new market opportunities as well as overcoming logistical barriers to building resilient local supply chains and reducing dependency on imported raw materials, Phillips offers expert insights into the key issues shaping the future of African Manufacturing. Key talking points will include:

• How AfCFTA is transforming intra-African trade for manufacturers.
• The biggest logistical challenges in implementing AfCFTA and how to overcome them
• Strategies for African Manufacturers to reduce dependency on imported raw materials
• The role of regional supply chains in enhancing Africa’s industrial competitiveness

This conference comes with concrete solutions on how to improve African Manufacturing, from efficient machinery and automation to logistics as well as green manufacturing. Companies showcased innovations as well as pragmatic solutions which will drive sustainability, productivity and competitiveness.

 High-level executives from major business sectors from automotive, textiles, food & beverages, steel, and cleaning-tech manufacturing shared their insights and announced new investment plans and opportunities. This conference serves as a platform for various business leaders to advance in forging partnerships, networking and a space for critical deals to take place.