The ACL Conference 2026 taking place in Johannesburg this week will explore the future of infrastructure development in Africa and be part of the conversation shaping the continent's construction law dynamics.
Image: Supplied/Elton Jansen
The Africa Construction Law (ACL) Conference returns for its highly anticipated sixth edition this week, marking a significant moment in the conference’s evolution as the premier pan-African platform for construction law, infrastructure development, and dispute resolution. This year’s event, taking place on May 11 and 12, boasts unique importance, as it will be the first time the conference takes place in South Africa, having previously been hosted in Nigeria and Kenya.
Under the compelling theme "Construction in Transition: Building Africa’s Infrastructure for the Next Era", the conference gathers a diverse assembly of professionals from the legal, construction, infrastructure, and energy sectors across Africa and beyond. Taking place at The Wanderers Club in Johannesburg, attendees will engage with construction law and dispute resolution experts with substantial experience spanning English-speaking, Francophone, and Lusophone jurisdictions.
Building on the successes of earlier conferences that attracted robust participation from various countries, ACL Conference 2026 is expected to be no different. It will welcome delegates from not just Africa, but also Europe, the Middle East, and North America. A rich tapestry of professionals will be represented, including contractors, employers, developers, banks, development finance institutions, government bodies, law firms, chambers of commerce, arbitral institutions, expert consultancies, and academia.
The carefully curated conference agenda promises two days filled with plenary sessions featuring industry leaders who will share insights on current trends and emerging developments within the spheres of construction law and infrastructure. Attendees will also benefit from extensive networking opportunities designed to encourage direct engagement with key decision-makers in the construction sector. Interactive sessions, networking breaks, and exhibition spaces will foster connections and collaborations that could shape the future landscape of construction across the continent.
Key programme highlights include discussions on:
A special feature of the conference is an Oxford-style debate tackling contemporary issues that affect construction projects across the continent. This interactive forum will provide a dynamic platform for stakeholders to voice their viewpoints and engage in constructive dialogue.
As a highlight of the event, the ACL Annual Gala Dinner and Awards will celebrate excellence within Africa’s construction and legal industries. This exclusive evening shines a spotlight on individuals, firms, and organisations that have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and significant impact in furthering infrastructure delivery and advancing construction law in Africa.
With its rich agenda and unparalleled networking opportunities, the ACL Conference 2026 promises to be a landmark event that not only addresses pressing issues but also sets the stage for the future of Africa’s construction landscape.
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