Theme: Facilitating Africa’s Future in the Digital Era: People, Processes, and Platforms
Date: Saturday, 7 November 2026
Time: 10:00–17:30 EAT (Nairobi)
Format: Virtual | One-day programme
Hosted by: IAF Rwanda
Register here
About the event
You are warmly invited to the IAF Africa Facilitators’ Exchange 2026, a one-day virtual gathering bringing together facilitators, practitioners, and community leaders from across Africa and the wider global facilitation community.
Under the theme “Facilitating Africa’s Future in the Digital Era: People, Processes, and Platforms,” this year’s Exchange will explore the evolving role of facilitation in an increasingly digital world, while celebrating the cultural knowledge, diverse perspectives, and innovative practices that shape facilitation across the African continent.
Through engaging discussions, interactive sessions, regional insights, and opportunities for collaboration, participants will exchange ideas, explore practical approaches, and build meaningful connections with fellow facilitators.
Whether you’re an experienced facilitator, new to the profession, or simply curious about the power of facilitation, the Facilitators’ Exchange offers an opportunity to learn, share, and connect with a vibrant community of practitioners.
Event Programme
Join us for a full day of learning, sharing, and connection, featuring regional perspectives, interactive discussions, and opportunities to explore new approaches to facilitation.
10:00–10:45 | Opening Plenary and Virtual Welcome
We’ll begin with a warm welcome from our hosts in Rwanda, an introduction to the day’s theme, and an opportunity to connect with fellow participants.
Through cultural highlights, music, and visual storytelling, we’ll also celebrate Rwanda’s rich heritage and set the stage for an engaging day of learning and exchange.
10:45–12:00 | Regional Insights: Part One
Contextualising the Theme – People, Processes, and Platforms
Hear from IAF Chapters across Africa as they share how facilitation is evolving within their local contexts.
This session will explore the intersection of cultural knowledge, facilitation practices, and digital innovation, highlighting how facilitators are adapting their approaches to meet the changing needs of their communities and organisations.
The session will feature presentations from three IAF Chapters, followed by an opportunity for questions and discussion.
12:00–12:20 | The Virtual Artefacts Gallery
Explore a digital exhibition celebrating the creativity and diversity of African facilitation practices.
Featuring artefacts and contributions from members of the facilitation community, this interactive gallery will showcase approaches to facilitation, community engagement, and collaboration from across the continent.
12:20–12:30 | Stretch Break
Take a short break to refresh and recharge before our afternoon sessions.
12:30–14:00 | Regional Insights: Part Two
Continuing the Conversation – Regional Perspectives and Practices
Our exploration of facilitation across Africa continues with insights from four additional IAF Chapters.
Discover how facilitators are incorporating local traditions, cultural practices, and emerging technologies into their work, and learn from the experiences and innovations of colleagues across the region.
The session will conclude with an opportunity for questions and shared reflections.
14:00–14:30 | Lunch Break and Virtual Networking
Take a break, enjoy lunch, or join one of our optional virtual networking rooms to connect with fellow facilitators.
Participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences through informal conversations on topics including:
- Digital facilitation and emerging technologies
- The business of facilitation
- Collaboration and professional networking
- Inclusive facilitation practices
- Tools, methods, and approaches to facilitation
- Building a career in facilitation
Whether you’re looking to share experiences, explore a new topic, or simply meet fellow practitioners, these conversations offer an opportunity to connect with the wider community.
14:30–14:50 | Networking Debrief and Shared Reflections
We’ll come back together to share key insights, ideas, and reflections from the networking conversations.
This session will highlight common themes, emerging opportunities, and perspectives shared by participants.
14:50–15:50 | The Mentoring Panel
Learning Through Shared Experience
Join experienced facilitators and emerging professionals for an interactive discussion exploring real-world challenges in facilitation practice.
Through shared experiences, practical examples, and collaborative problem-solving, participants will explore how facilitation can help address challenges, strengthen professional practice, and support the next generation of facilitators.
15:50–16:50 | The Fun Zone
Creative and Participatory Approaches to Facilitation
Facilitation is about more than guiding conversations. It’s also about creating engaging, meaningful experiences for participants!
Join us for an interactive session exploring creative and participatory methods that bring energy, connection, and engagement into facilitated spaces.
Discover practical activities and approaches that you can adapt and bring into your own facilitation practice.
16:50–17:30 | Synthesis, Recognition, and Closing Ceremony
We’ll close the day by reflecting on the ideas, experiences, and connections shared throughout the programme.
This final session will bring together key insights, celebrate contributions from across the facilitation community, and explore how we can continue strengthening collaboration and learning across Africa and beyond.
Celebrating Rwanda
With Rwanda serving as our virtual host, the Facilitators’ Exchange will also offer participants an opportunity to experience elements of the country’s vibrant culture and heritage.
Through visual storytelling, music, and cultural highlights woven throughout the programme, participants will enjoy a glimpse into Rwanda’s landscapes, traditions, and creative spirit.
Who should Attend?
The IAF Africa Facilitators’ Exchange welcomes facilitators at all stages of their professional journeys, including experienced practitioners, emerging facilitators, IAF members, chapter leaders, and anyone interested in the role of facilitation in strengthening communities, organisations, and collaboration.
Whether you’re looking to expand your professional network, discover new approaches, share your experiences, or learn from colleagues across the continent, this event offers an opportunity to connect and grow.
Join us!
Be part of a dynamic exchange of ideas, experiences, and perspectives as we explore the future of facilitation in Africa’s digital era.