BPIA-IMF 10th Annual Economic Forum on Sub-Saharan Africa

Date: Friday, November 6, 2026

Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM EDT

Location (Virtual - Zoom): https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87939148957

Why This Matters

Sub-Saharan Africa’s economy has demonstrated resilience amid geopolitical conflict, higher energy costs, and tightening development finance. The IMF projects regional GDP growth of 4.5% in both 2026 and 2027, supported by economic reforms, private-sector adaptation, and favorable commodity receipts in some countries. However, rising inflation, high debt-servicing costs, declining aid, and limited fiscal buffers threaten the sustainability and inclusiveness of growth in the region. Understanding these dynamics is essential to identifying practical strategies that strengthen African businesses, expand regional value chains, and translate economic growth into meaningful employment and shared prosperity.

We will explore the key findings of the IMF’s October 2026 Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa, examining the region’s economic resilience, emerging risks, and opportunities to accelerate inclusive growth.

What Participants Will Gain

You will gain valuable insights from the IMF report’s authors and other economic development and public policy experts. You will be equipped to identify opportunities for partnerships, collaboration, and how to contribute to Africa's inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

About the Speakers

Nikola Spatafora is a Senior Economist in the IMF’s African Department. Previously, he worked in the Fund’s Research Department and was Lead Economist for East Asia & the Pacific at the World Bank. His research focuses on economic growth, inequality, structural transformation, and natural resources. He has published widely, and his work has been featured in The Economist, Financial Times, and Wall Street Journal,

Woubet Kassa is an economist in the Chief Economist Office of Africa at the World Bank Group, working on trade, macroeconomics, structural transformation, and industrial policy in developing economies. His research examines how countries integrate into global and regional markets, how changes in trade and the global economic environment shape development outcomes, and how economies build the productive capabilities needed for sustained growth and structural transformation.

Kenneth Reinert is a Professor of Public Policy at the School of Policy and Government of George Mason University, where he served as Program Director of the Global Commerce and Policy graduate program for about 15 years. His research focuses on international economic policy, globalization, development policy, economic ethics, and trade policy, including trade policy modeling. He has consulted for the World Trade Organization, the World Bank, the OECD Development Centre, and the US Department of Commerce.

Stella Vewessee is a business and economic development leader, experienced in building strategic partnerships, strengthening business ecosystems, and advancing initiatives that create lasting economic and social impact. With experience spanning U.S. federal agencies, private industry, and international development organizations, she is recognized for transforming ideas into impact, developing strategies that drive sustainable growth, and translating policies into measurable programs.