Johannesburg is set to host the Africa Live Entertainment Conference (ALEC) 2026 from 23 to 25 April, bringing together key figures from across music, live events, policy and investment sectors. The three day conference will take place at a time when global interest in Africa’s creative economy is growing, with organisers positioning the event as a platform to address structural challenges in the live entertainment industry. For Gauteng, the gathering signals both economic opportunity and increased focus on the province as a hub for continental collaboration in music and events.
According to the official release, the conference aims to strengthen infrastructure and support a more connected touring circuit across Africa.
Johannesburg to Host Continental Industry Gathering
The Africa Live Entertainment Conference is scheduled to take place in Johannesburg, attracting participants from across Africa and the global African music diaspora.
Key details include:
- Dates: 23 to 25 April 2026
- Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
- Participants: Industry leaders, policymakers, artists and investors
- Focus areas: Live events, touring, infrastructure and financing
The event has received endorsement from the National Council for Arts and Culture and the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, reflecting its continental relevance .
Focus on Infrastructure and Industry Growth
A central theme of ALEC 2026 is the development of infrastructure needed to support Africa’s live entertainment sector.
According to organisers, the conference will explore:
- Gaps in event infrastructure across the continent
- Investment opportunities in live entertainment
- Challenges affecting touring logistics
- Access to financing for artists and promoters
The aim is to move beyond discussion and support long term industry growth through collaboration and policy alignment .
Programme to Address Key Industry Challenges
Over three days, the conference will host multiple sessions focusing on the business and operational aspects of live entertainment.
Programme highlights include:
- Panel 1: The state of African live entertainment
- Panel 2: Breaking African artists into global markets
- Panel 3: Festivals, venues and fan experience
- Panel 4: Rights, royalties and revenue
- Panel 5: Johannesburg commitments roundtable
A flagship session titled Touring Without Borders will address mobility, visa access and regional cooperation, which remain significant barriers for artists working across African markets .
Key Speakers From Across The Continent
ALEC 2026 will feature speakers from various sectors within the entertainment industry.
Confirmed keynote participants include:
- Amb. Ninikanwa Olachi Okey Uche, Consul General of Nigeria in Johannesburg
- Olivier Laouchez, Co Founder and CEO of Trace TV
- Sipho Dlamini, President for Africa and Middle East at gamma
- Mo Abudu, Founder and CEO of EbonyLife
Additional speakers and panellists include executives, artists, legal experts and policymakers, reflecting the conference’s multi sector approach .
Broader Participation Across African Markets
Organisers expect participation from stakeholders representing multiple African countries.
These include:
- Nigeria
- South Africa
- Kenya
- Ghana
- Senegal
The conference is designed to encourage cross border collaboration and deal making within the live entertainment space.
According to organisers, ALEC aims to create a more commercially viable and interconnected ecosystem across the continent .
Industry Challenges Remain Central to Discussions
The conference will focus on persistent challenges affecting the sector.
These include:
- Visa restrictions limiting artist mobility
- High costs associated with touring logistics
- Limited venue infrastructure in some regions
- Gaps in funding and investment
Organisers have indicated that these issues will be addressed through both panel discussions and closed door roundtables aimed at producing actionable outcomes .
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
Hosting ALEC 2026 positions Gauteng as a key location in Africa’s entertainment economy.
For residents:
- The conference highlights Johannesburg’s role as a regional hub for music and events
- It may contribute to increased investment in local venues and infrastructure
- It places Gauteng within broader continental industry discussions
The presence of international and African industry leaders also reinforces the province’s visibility within the global creative sector.
FAQ: Africa Live Entertainment Conference 2026
When is ALEC 2026 taking place?
From 23 to 25 April 2026.
Where is the conference being held?
In Johannesburg, South Africa.
What is the main focus of the event?
Strengthening Africa’s live entertainment industry and infrastructure.
Who will attend the conference?
Industry leaders, artists, policymakers and investors.
What are the key topics being discussed?
Touring, infrastructure, funding, artist mobility and global market access.
What Happens Next
With the conference scheduled to begin on 23 April, attention will turn to the outcomes of discussions and whether they translate into measurable changes within the industry.
Organisers have indicated that ALEC is intended to move beyond dialogue toward implementation, particularly in areas such as touring infrastructure and cross border collaboration.
The extent to which these discussions influence policy, investment and industry practice will likely determine the long term impact of the conference on both Gauteng and the broader African live entertainment sector.
