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Agenda

Meeting room: Sirocco, Novotel Hotel Abidjan

DAY 1 Thursday 26 June

Time
Event
12:00
Optional charity event:
Lace up your boots and relive Santiago's glory days! Join our alumni football tournament, where friendly competition meets charitable giving. All proceeds will support a charity. It's a fantastic opportunity to bond, show off your skills, and make a real difference in our community. Any money left over from Module 7 budget will also be donated to this charity.
17:00
Welcome & Registration with opening remarks from the organizing committee and TRIUM leadership
18:00
Group icebreaker & opening dinner for TRIUM and local partner school alumni.

Get ready for a complete immersion into the heart of Ivorian culture! We'll whisk you away to Le Débarcadère, a staple restaurant of Abidjan, for a spectacular evening on the waterfront. Prepare to feast on authentic delicacies like Attiéké-poisson, Kedjenou, and poulet braisé. The night will be filled with lively entertainment and traditional dance performances you won't want to miss.

DAY 2 Friday 27 June

Time
Event
08:00
Registration & coffee
08:15
Opening of the Conference by Professor Robert Falkner
09:00
Keynote 1:
Future trends in African Economies

Speaker: Patrick Achi, Minister of State, Special Advisor to the President of Côte d’Ivoire, Former Prime Minister of Côte d’Ivoire.

This keynote will provide a comprehensive business-focused analysis of the evolving African economic landscape, highlighting the key factors driving change and shaping investment opportunities. We will explore how regional politics, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and local policy reforms are influencing the social, economic, and business environments across the continent. These factors not only affect market stability but also impact business operations, supply chains, and the overall investment climate in Africa.

In addition, we will identify emerging sectors that present significant growth potential for investors. From technology and digital transformation to renewable energy, agriculture, and fintech, Africa is experiencing a surge in innovation and market demand. However, successful market entry and investment will require navigating challenges such as regulatory complexities, political risk, and infrastructure gaps. This session will offer a practical outlook on the most promising industries and key strategies for businesses looking to capitalize on Africa’s economic transformation, while addressing the risks and opportunities in this rapidly changing environment.
10:30
Coffee break
11:00
Panel Discussion:
The Future of Commodities in Africa: Opportunities and Challenges

Speakers:
Karim Traoré, Chief of Staff of Prime Minister Côte d’Ivoire, TRIUM Class of 2018.
Albert Zeufack, World Bank Country Director for Angola, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Sao Tome and Principe.
Nouhoun Coulibaly, Chief of Staff, Ministry of Agriculture.

As Africa continues to play a pivotal role in the global commodities market, the future of its key resources—agriculture, energy, and mining—remains both highly promising and increasingly complex. This session will explore how shifting global market dynamics, environmental concerns, and technological advancements are reshaping Africa’s commodities sector, providing both new opportunities and unique challenges for businesses and investors.

From agricultural commodities like cocoa and coffee to the continent's rich reserves of oil, gas, and minerals such as gold, uranium, and bauxite, Africa’s resource wealth is a cornerstone of its economic development. However, the impact of global demand shifts, climate change, and sustainability regulations is altering the landscape of these industries. Moreover, geopolitical tensions, infrastructure limitations, and fluctuating prices present additional hurdles for stakeholders across the value chain.

In this panel discussion, industry experts will dive into the evolving trends and investment opportunities in Africa’s commodities markets, while critically examining the challenges that companies must navigate. With Africa's vast resource potential at the center of global energy and supply chain conversations, this session will provide essential insights for businesses seeking to capitalize on Africa’s commodity sector, while addressing the need for innovation, sustainability, and resilience in an increasingly interconnected world.
12:30
Lunch
13:30 - 15:30
Company visit: TRANSCAO Côte d’Ivoire

We will have the distinct pleasure of visiting TRANSCAO-NÉGOCE, a key player in Côte d'Ivoire's vital agro-industrial sector. It is a state run project with Chinese capital.

The company specializes in the sourcing, processing, and export of the nation's most important agricultural commodities, including cocoa and coffee. This visit offers a unique insight into the value chain that connects local Ivorian farmers to the global market. We will learn about their commitment to sustainability, quality, and their mission to improve the livelihoods of producers, providing a fascinating look into a primary driver of the Ivorian economy.

Key take aways: Knowing that Côte d’Ivoire is the first world producer of cocoa.
  • Understand the cocoa value chain
  • Develop a global strategic vision
  • Raise awareness of economic and social issues
  • Study industrial and technological issues
  • Analyze operational and logistical management
  • Deepen knowledge of the Ivorian and African market
  • Explore sustainability, CSR and fair-trade issues
17:00 - 19:00
Cocoa activity

Location: Bushman Cafe

Engage your senses in an exclusive, interactive workshop dedicated to the world of artisanal chocolate. You will discover the secrets of transforming premium Ivorian and Ghanaian cocoa into exquisite, high-end chocolate through a live demonstration. Following this, we will dive into a discussion on the future of African cocoa, exploring the challenges and opportunities for producer countries to move up the value chain. The experience culminates in a tasting of unique and delicious chocolate creations.
20:00 onwards
Free evening; You can have dinner on the spot at Bushman Cafe or have dinner at the West restaurant. Let the committee know if you want them to book a table for you.

DAY 3 Saturday 28 June

Time
Event
08:00
Coffee & refreshments
08:30
Opening remarks and Day 1 summary
08:45
Panel Discussion
Navigating the African Market: Insights from Successful Leaders

Speakers:
Solange Amichia, CEO, Centre de Promotion des Investissements en Côte d'Ivoire (CEPICI).
Charles Kié, President, Genesis Holding Company, TRIUM Class of 2009.

Panel Discussion : Energy and Mines for Growth in Africa: Opportunities and Challenges
Speakers:
Kalifa Ehouman Narcisse, Directeur Général Energie, Ministry of Mines, Oil and Energy, Côte d’Ivoire
Bienvenu Esse, Directeur Général Hydrocarbures, Ministry of Mines, Oil and Energy, Côte d’Ivoire
Seydou Coulibaly, Directeur Général Mines, Ministry of Mines, Oil and Energy, Côte d’Ivoire
10:45
Coffee break
11:15
Panel Discussion
Harnessing Technology for Growth in Africa

Speakers:
Redda BEN GELOUNE. CEO & Founder Aitek Group.
Mathias Léopoldie, CEO Julaya, Cofounder Julaya.

Africa is a continent of immense opportunity, but navigating its diverse and dynamic markets requires a deep understanding of local nuances, regulatory landscapes, and industry-specific challenges. In this panel discussion, we will hear from successful leaders across multiple sectors—finance, technology (panel 3), agriculture, and energy—who have not only entered but thrived in the African market.

Our distinguished panelists will share their experiences, best practices, and strategies for overcoming barriers to entry, adapting to local business environments, and scaling operations across the continent. From navigating complex legal and regulatory frameworks to capitalizing on Africa’s burgeoning tech ecosystem and natural resource potential, this discussion will provide practical insights on how businesses can succeed in one of the world’s most promising yet challenging markets.

Whether you're a seasoned investor, a startup founder, or a corporate executive looking to expand into Africa, this session will equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate and capitalize on Africa’s diverse and rapidly evolving market opportunities.
12:15
Network Lunch
13:00
Keynote Speaker:
Building a Resilient Business in Africa: Discussion on risk management, adaptability, and long-term planning

Speaker: To be confirmed.

In this session, we will explore how businesses—both large and small—can develop a resilient framework for thriving in the face of uncertainty. We will delve into strategies for effective risk management, the importance of adaptability in an ever-changing environment, and the critical role of long-term planning in sustaining growth in the African context.
13:45 - 14:30
Professor Michel Fender will set the stage for our port visit. As a renowned expert in value chain, Professor Fender will connect the complex, real-time operations of a major shipping hub to the core principles of modern business strategy. This 45-minute session will address the critical challenges and innovations in global logistics, preparing us to view the port not just as infrastructure, but as a dynamic and vital node in the world economy.
14:30 - 14:45
Conference wrap up
15:00
Bus leaving to the Port tour
15:00 - 17:00
Go behind the scenes for an exclusive tour of one of West Africa's most vital commercial hubs. This guided visit will provide a comprehensive look at the port's modern terminals and strategic infrastructure, revealing its critical role as an economic engine for Côte d'Ivoire and the entire region.

We will gain firsthand insight into the complex commercial and logistical operations that drive international trade. The tour includes a real-time observation of cargo movements and the import/export process, offering a fascinating look at global supply chains in action.
19:00 - 22:00
Final Gala Dinner

To conclude our reunion in Abidjan, we invite you to our Gala Dinner. Held in the enchanting setting of Palais D'Akwa, this will be the culminating moment of our program—a perfect occasion to celebrate our shared successes and forge lasting connections with peers.

Prepare for a gourmet meal crafted by a celebrated chef, complemented by an open bar. The evening will be brought to life with a live DJ and MC. Every detail has been thoughtfully arranged for an unforgettable final night together.

DAY 4 Sunday 29 June

Time
Event
10:00 – 16:00
Optional activity:
Before you depart, unwind and reflect on our reunion with an idyllic escape to the seaside of Assinie. This optional excursion is the perfect way to end your journey in style.

Join us for a day dedicated to leisure and celebration in a beautiful, natural setting. We will travel to La Maison d'Akoula for a festive and delicious brunch. Spend the day relaxing by the sea, enjoying the pool, and soaking in the convivial atmosphere with fellow alumni.

Important Details:
  • Date: Sunday, June 29, 2025
  • Schedule: We will depart from the hotel at 10:00 AM and return by 4:00 PM.
  • Airport Transfer: For those departing Sunday evening, a direct transfer from Assinie to the airport can be arranged.
  • Price & Booking: The cost for this excursion is €175 per person. Please note that spots are limited, so we encourage you to book early to secure your place by using this link: https://forms.gle/hZ3ZqHbycGphFShs9