With its 1.4 billion people, rapid population growth rate of 2.3% and median age is just 19 years, Africa generates an average GDP growth of 4% through a high number of projects in many economic sectors. This shows the tremendous need to train and qualify the next generation of project managers to drive future growth and development across the diverse continent. In this context, IPMA recently marked three significant milestones in its ongoing efforts to support and develop project management in Africa.

First, IPMA actively participated in the 5th Pan African Project Management Conference in Yaoundé, Cameroon, from October 22–24 2024. The main objectives were to:

• Support the event as a member of the advisory committee of the conference
• Highlight the importance of standards and quality in project management tailored to the African context,
• Raise awareness among participants of the IPMA Ecosystem, which offers products and services designed for project management professionals,
• Share experiences on successful projects realised in Africa
• Advance the project management profession in Cameroon by connecting with stakeholders, including the Project Management Association and representatives from ISO involved in project management.

The Pan-African Project Management Conference not only represents an opportunity for professional development but also serves as a catalyst for collaborative efforts aimed at overcoming the unique challenges faced by project managers in Africa. As the continent continues to grow and develop, the importance of quality project management has never been more critical.

PanAfrican Project Management Conference in Yaoundé, Cameroon 24.10.2024

Second, IPMA led a coaching session with its member association in Algiers, guiding it to progress toward full IPMA membership. This session coincided with Algeria’s commemoration of the 70th anniversary of its independence movement, which began on November 1, 1954. The coaching session also celebrated the achievements of APMA, the certification body (CB) of IPMA in Algeria, which is today the only French-speaking IPMA CB in Africa. This enables French-speaking candidates across the continent to achieve certification at levels D and C in the four level certification system of IPMA.

Coaching session with the board of the Algerian Project Management Association in Algiers, Algeria, 01.11.2024

Third, IPMA’s involvement underscores its commitment to elevating project management standards worldwide, especially as IPMA will hold its first World Congress in Africa, in Cape Town from 27-29 November 2024. By collaborating with regional leaders and experts, IPMA aims to promote best practices that can lead to more successful project outcomes in Africa. This historic event underscores IPMA’s commitment to Africa, with its five member associations and hopefully more in Africa.

IPMA’s first World Congress in 60 years in Africa, Cape Town, 27-29^th November 2024

With the three previously described milestones Africa’s potential in the field of project management for IPMA but also in general in clearly to be considered for now and in the future

Let’s keep project management and IPMA move forward in Africa !