The 2026 FAIC Conference, held in Ghana on May 13, 2026, has produced three strategic resolutions. These resolutions will guide efforts to improve Africa's built environment. The Ghana Consulting Engineers Association (GCEA) hosted the event.
The first key area is Innovation & Digital Transformation. This pillar mandates the use of Artificial Intelligence for tasks like design and surveys. Human oversight will remain essential. Investments in local data and network infrastructure are planned. Data protection will be integrated into procurement processes. Engineers, tech providers, and governments are the main groups involved. Actions are expected between 2026 and 2028. Strengthening the link from education to industry is also a goal. Projects using local materials will be prioritised. This effort is ongoing.
The second strategic area addresses Resilient Finance & Policy Reform. This calls for clear stakeholder responsibilities and risk sharing from the start. Projects must be made ready for funding. Comprehensive project preparation is a priority. Infrastructure bonds and Special Purpose Vehicles will be used. Financing tools for projects will be improved. Technical experts will move into governance roles. This will help coordinate policies across sectors. Consultants, funding agencies, legal experts, and governments are key stakeholders. Action on this is immediate.
The third pillar focuses on Sustainability and Inclusive Leadership. This involves using renewable resources in projects. Pavement vulnerability indicators will be integrated. Training rates will be varied to include more people. Revenue streams will be diversified. Examples include the FIDIC Africa E-magazine. The Future Leaders (FL) Fund will grow. All professionals will receive broader competency training. Urban planners, research institutions, industry, governments, and member associations are involved. FIDIC Africa and FIDIC Global are also key players.
The conference discussions centred on sustainable infrastructure. Climate resilience and Africa's green transition were major topics. The organizers explored new solutions for Africa's growing infrastructure needs. These resolutions are expected to drive significant development across the continent.