PRESS STATEMENT- 3RD HIGH-LEVEL AFRICA CIVIL SOCIETY AML/CFT CONFERENCE

Spaces for Change | S4C is partnering with the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML) of

the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), with support from local and international partners,

to convene the 3rd edition of the annual Africa High-Level Civil Society AML/CFT Conference. The conference

is scheduled to take place from July 14–17, 2026, in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria, under the theme:

“Implementing FATF Recommendation 8 Correctly: Practices, Lessons Learned and

Opportunities for Reform.”

Now in its third year, the conference builds on the growing recognition of civil society as a critical partner to

governments in tackling money laundering and terrorism financing. This year’s edition will bring together over

200 participants from around the world, including representatives from African governments, FATF-style

regional bodies (FSRBs), non-profit organizations, law enforcement agencies, regional and economic bodies,

financial intelligence units, financial institutions, diplomatic missions, indigenous groups, academia, and

international organizations. Discussions will focus on developing locally grounded, context-sensitive solutions

to financial crimes across Africa, while ensuring that AML/CFT measures are implemented in ways that do not

constrain civic space or adversely impact communities.

Since its inception, the conference has provided a vital platform for examining both the progress and the

challenges associated with implementing FATF Recommendation 8 across the continent. Previous editions

held in Kampala, Uganda, and Gaborone, Botswana, have critically assessed national AML/CFT frameworks,

advanced calls for tailored risk-mitigation approaches, and advocated for a rights-based approach to

implementation that will not stifle the humanitarian efforts of development organizations.

Designed as a continental platform for conferences within a conference, this edition will feature four

specialized masterclasses, disruptive remarks/speeches, dynamic panel sessions, and in-depth engagements

designed to unpack the FATF Recommendations, evaluate their application across sectors, and identify

practical pathways for reform.

As Africa continues to navigate the complex intersection of regional, financial security and civic freedoms, this

conference offers a timely opportunity to strengthen collaboration, deepen mutual understanding, and chart a

more balanced and effective course for AML/CFT implementation. By fostering dialogue among key

stakeholders and amplifying evidence-based, locally driven perspectives, the convening aims to advance

reforms that safeguard both financial systems and the indispensable role of civil society across the continent.