Thousands of delegates from across Africa gathered in Lusaka as the Africa Creative Market (ACM) 2026 concluded six days of high-level dialogue, strategic partnerships, investment conversations and cultural exchange, reaffirming the continent’s growing determination to build a globally competitive creative economy.

Held from 29 June to 4 July 2026, ACM 2026 was delivered in collaboration with the Creative Industries Business Summit Zambia (CIBSZ) and the Kwimbo National Arts Festival, bringing together participants from Zambia, Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Cameroon, Senegal and several other African countries.

The gathering united government officials, policymakers, investors, development partners, entrepreneurs, creatives and industry leaders in one of the continent’s most comprehensive platforms dedicated to advancing Africa’s creative and cultural industries.

Throughout the week, delegates participated in a rich programme of specialised summits, conferences, exhibitions, film screenings, awards, business forums, networking sessions and cultural showcases, all centred on a common objective: unlocking the full economic potential of Africa’s creative industries through stronger institutions, strategic investment, innovation and cross-border collaboration.

Opening the event, Inya Lawal, founder of Africa Creative Market, described Zambia as the ideal host for this year’s gathering, pointing to the country’s growing commitment to the creative economy.

“People often ask me why we chose Zambia. My…