On Friday, February 6, 2026, the Executive Academy of Groupe Supdeco Dakar held its 2026 Kick-Off Lecture at the Pullman Teranga in Dakar. Held under the theme:
“Between Geopolitical Tensions and Economic Transformations: How Are African Companies Redefining Their Strategies?”
the event brought together executives, senior managers, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers to discuss the strategic challenges facing African companies in a rapidly evolving international environment.
High-Level Contributions
The Kick-Off Lecture featured presentations from four distinguished panelists who shared their expertise and strategic insights:
Mahi Hamet Kane – Managing Partner at Mansa Tax Legal and President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Senegal
He outlined the tax and legal implications of geopolitical tensions and economic shifts for African companies, while emphasizing the critical role of leadership in competitiveness and investment attractiveness.
Cheikh Ahmed Tidiane SY – Founder of Bazila Holdings
An agro-economist engineer and entrepreneur, he discussed the dynamics of the agro-industrial sector, export and sustainable development strategies, as well as the importance of food sovereignty and local entrepreneurial initiatives.
Abdoulaye FAYE – Director of Formalization, Enterprise Development and Ecosystem at ADEPME
With over 25 years of experience, he detailed strategies for the formalization and development of African SMEs, highlighting resilience drivers and multi-sector partnerships to stimulate economic growth.
Majdi YASSINE – Board Member and Chairman of the Strategic Committee at Kapital Assurances
With 24 years of experience in the insurance sector, he shared his perspectives on digital transformation, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic governance, illustrating how African companies can anticipate risks while seizing emerging opportunities.
Engaging Discussions with the Audience
The audience, composed of Executive Academy participants, professionals, and alumni, actively engaged in the Q&A session, enriching the discussions and exploring the practical implications of the panelists’ analyses across various industries.
The Executive Academy: A Catalyst for Transformation
Through this Kick-Off Lecture, the Executive Academy reaffirmed its central role in developing African leaders by offering programs tailored to professionals’ needs and creating a privileged platform for exchange among experts, practitioners, and future decision-makers.
The 2026 Kick-Off Lecture initiated constructive dialogue on the transformations necessary for the development of African businesses. It provided participants with a unique opportunity to learn, exchange ideas, and draw inspiration from the experiences and journeys of the distinguished leaders present.
We extend our sincere thanks to Mr. Mahi Hamet Kane, Mr. Cheikh Ahmed Tidiane SY, Mr. Abdoulaye FAYE, and Mr. Majdi YASSINE for their availability, commitment, and outstanding contribution to this Kick-Off Lecture. Their expertise and insights greatly enriched the strategic discussions and inspired all participants.