Next year’s ARDA Week 2026 conference will mark two decades of the African Refiners and Distributors Association (ARDA) driving downstream transformation across the continent — and promises to be the most dynamic edition yet.

Taking place from 13th to 17th April 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, this milestone event will bring together refiners, distributors, regulators, government representatives, investors, traders, technology providers, and international partners. Attendees will share insights, forge partnerships, and explore the innovations and strategies shaping the next era of Africa’s oil and energy industry.

“As we celebrate 20 years of ARDA, we’re not just looking back — we’re setting the stage for the next generation of African energy innovation,” said Anibor Kragha, ARDA Executive Secretary. “ARDA Week 2026 will bring together the brightest minds and most influential players to explore new solutions, forge partnerships, and drive the sector forward.”

Since its inception on 23rd March 2006, when the first three-day constituent congress was held in Cape Town with just 36 delegates, ARDA has grown into a cornerstone of Africa’s downstream oil and energy sector. ARDA Week now attracts close to 600 industry leaders — with even more expected for this landmark 20th edition.

Over the past two decades, ARDA has stayed true to its founding mission: “to provide a crucible for synergy, solidarity, and development among its members through discussions and exchanges of ideas and experience in all areas of refining.” This commitment has empowered African refiners to thrive in a competitive global market while fostering collaboration and innovation across the continent.

ARDA Week 2026 – Bigger, Bolder and More Impactful Than Ever

ARDA Week 2026 will celebrate this milestone in style. The exhibition promises to be our largest and most exciting yet, with new opportunities designed to maximise value for delegates and sponsors alike. Highlights include:

• Plenary Sessions: For the first time, sponsors will be able to host dedicated plenary sessions, showcasing innovations, ongoing projects, and practical solutions to the sector’s most pressing challenges.
• Exclusive VIP Area: Premium sponsors can connect in a private, high-level environment designed to foster meaningful business discussions and strengthen strategic partnerships.
• Breakfast Networking: Open to all delegates, this new morning session on Tuesday, 14th April offers a dynamic setting to build relationships, share insights, and explore collaboration opportunities before the day’s sessions begin.
• Expanded Exhibition Space: With more exhibition space than ever before, attendees will experience a larger showcase of cutting-edge technologies, products, and services shaping Africa’s downstream industry.

Be Part of ARDA’s 20th Anniversary Celebration

There has never been a better time to partner with ARDA. As we celebrate 20 years of driving Africa’s downstream transformation, ARDA Week 2026 offers an unparalleled platform to showcase your brand, connect with key decision-makers, and play a central role in shaping the continent’s energy future.

Why Partner with ARDA?
ARDA provides a strategic platform for engagement with African refiners, distributors, and international service providers. Whether through membership or sponsorship, partners gain access to influential networks, high-impact events, and opportunities to demonstrate expertise to industry leaders.

ARDA Membership
Members benefit from year-round access to ARDA workshops and forums, commissioned studies, collaborative initiatives, the ARDA African Downstream Database, and ARDA Week. Membership ensures ongoing engagement with Africa’s downstream community and positions your organisation at the heart of sector developments.

ARDA Sponsorship
Sponsorship provides targeted visibility and influence across Africa’s downstream sector. Four tiers — Diamond, Platinum, Gold, and Silver — include benefits such as:

• Attendance at ARDA Week and other events
• Presentation opportunities at plenary sessions and workshops
• Advertising and promotional packages
• Delegate nominations for workgroups and discounts on CITAC workshops

With ARDA Week 2026 marking two decades of achievement, sponsors and members alike can take advantage of prime exhibition space, exclusive networking opportunities, and high-visibility promotion through ARDA’s digital channels to strengthen their presence in Africa’s downstream energy sector.

Registration and Contact

Registration for ARDA Week 2026 opens in December 2025. To pre-register your interest or learn more about membership or sponsorship opportunities, please visit our ARDA Week 2026 page or contact: Laure Liarcou – laure@citac.com.

 

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About ARDA

The African Refiners & Distributors Association (ARDA) is a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing the sustainable development of Africa’s energy sector. The mission of our community is to promote collaboration among industry stakeholders, foster innovation, and drive investment to address Africa’s energy challenges. Through its work, ARDA aims to help unlock the continent’s energy potential, reduce energy poverty, and support Africa’s economic growth.

For all press enquiries, please contact: media@afrra.org

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