AACOSE Conference Catalysing Africa’s Social Economy through Innovation and Dialogue.

Nairobi is set to host the 8th Annual Africa Conference on Social Entrepreneurship dubbed AACOSE 8, a flagship continental forum aimed at advancing inclusive growth, innovation, and sustainability through social enterprise. The conference scheduled for My 14 to 16,2025 at Tangaza University, Institute for Social, AACOSE 8 will convene a diverse range of actors from across Africa and beyond, ranging from grassroots innovators to policymakers, funders, and academics with an objective of shaping the future of the continent’s social economy.

At a time when rising inequality and environmental degradation challenge traditional economic models, the case for a new approach has never been stronger. Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, regarded as the father of social entrepreneurship, once stated, “The capitalist system will not transform the world for the better. We need a new economic system, one that puts people first.” This ethos strongly echoes through the AACOSE agenda, building an Africa where social enterprises drive equitable and sustainable prosperity.

This year’s conference comes at a critical moment for Africa’s development discourse. Social enterprises also known as mission-driven businesses that prioritize social and environmental outcomes, have increasingly demonstrated their potential to address systemic challenges. Whether through access to healthcare, education, clean energy, or livelihoods, social enterprises are catalysing change where conventional markets and government services fall short.

AACOSE 8 offers a rare, collaborative space for dialogue, learning, and action. Organised by the Institute for Social Transformation at Tangaza University in partnership with regional and global organisations, the three-day convention will feature keynote addresses, expert panels, masterclasses and exhibitions. Topics will span social finance, climate resilience, youth innovation, circular economy and inclusive procurement.

“AACOSE is not just a conference, it is a movement that nurtures the soul of Africa’s social economy,” said Dr Bro. Jonas Dzinekou, Director of IST. “We create space for practitioners, scholars, and investors to co-design and scale innovations that advance systemic change,” he added.

One of AACOSE’s defining strengths is its ability to bridge sectors. Government actors, both at national and county levels will engage directly with practitioners and investors in the impact economy. These interactions can help inform evidence-based policies and governance frameworks that better align with the realities and potential of the social economy. Notably, the recent adoption of the African Union’s Ten-Year Social and Solidarity Economy Strategy (2023–2032) signals growing institutional recognition of this sector as vital to the continent’s development.

Dr Julius Kipngetich, a prominent voice in enterprise leadership once said, “Africa’s greatest asset is its people. What we need are systems that unleash that potential through enterprise models that serve both people and the planet. AACOSE is the forum where such systems are envisioned.”

Beyond policy and practice, AACOSE places strong emphasis on learning and research. Through a dedicated academic track, AACOSE Academia will showcase research papers and evidence-based case studies, creating synergy between theory and practice. This platform enables researchers and scholars to contribute meaningfully to shaping Africa’s evolving social enterprise landscape.

For funders and development partners, AACOSE 8 presents a unique opportunity to identify high-impact investible ventures. Through curated exhibitions, pitch sessions, and networking forums, investors can connect directly with social entrepreneurs tackling Africa’s most pressing challenges.

Innovation will take centre stage, with case studies featuring breakthrough solutions in healthcare, education, agriculture, refugee livelihoods, and technology for development. Masterclasses led by seasoned practitioners will provide hands-on insights into what it takes to build resilient, scalable, and mission-aligned enterprises.

AACOSE’s value proposition lies in its emphasis on co-creation, not simply sharing best practices but collectively shaping a shared vision of Africa’s future. It is a platform for building partnerships that endure beyond the event itself, fostering a continent-wide community united by a commitment to people-centred development.

As Africa navigates complex challenges from climate shocks to youth unemployment, the role of the social economy will be increasingly pivotal. AACOSE 8 is a timely and strategic intervention, offering a bold alternative to business as usual. It invites all actors; whether from government, business, academia, or civil society to reimagine economic systems grounded in equity, solidarity, and shared prosperity.

By; Isaack Onyonyi