The Africa Gathering commenced on the 1st May, 2025 and lasted till 3rd May, 2025. The delegates from 19 countries across Africa and Europe immersed themselves in insightful content over the three-day event, creating long-lasting memories and meaningful connections.

PKF Global CEO, Theo Vermaak, welcomed the delegates to the Africa Gathering at the Idera Hall of Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel.

PKF Nigeria CEO, Tajudeen Akande, also welcomed the delegates to Nigeria and provided a local perspective of the country.

There was a vibrant display of local culture which wowed the audience. The PKF Nigeria team members also took to the stage to showcase traditional Nigerian music and dancing. This unique welcome set the scene for an authentic and high-energy gathering.

The President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Chief Davidson C.S. Alaribe delivered a goodwill address and a brief description of the activities of ICAN.

The President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Samuel Agbeluyi delivered a goodwill address and a brief description of the activities of CITN.

The Executive Secretary of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr Rabiu Olowo, through his representative Titus Osawe, a Director at FRCN, delivered the Executive Secretary goodwill message.

There was a thought-provoking keynote address from political economist and strategist Professor Anthony Kila. During this engaging session ‘Nigeria in focus – Global strategy & Economic impact’, Professor Kila shared deep insights into Nigeria’s emerging role on the world stage and its influence on broader economic trends.

Another standout session was delivered by guest speaker Dr Tola Bamigbaiye-Elatuyi on the topic of ‘Power of Purpose Driven Marketing’. She highlighted how aligning marketing efforts with values and social impact helps to build meaningful brand presence.

Madonna Thompson and Papa Gueye spoke on the topic ‘Evolving with Clients: Adopting Services for a Changing Landscape’, this was an interactive session with several delegates contributing to the discourse.

Theo Vermaak and Debbie Dell delivered a speech on ‘Strengthening our Network for Growth and Impact in Africa’.

Theo Vermaak, Debbie Dell and Doug Woolley provided global updates on Network Insights.

Mari-Louise Kotzé shared practical insights on automating tasks, improving data analysis and enhancing decision-making in an address titled ‘Audit Identity Progress, Pilots and Practical Insights’.

Hezekiah and Doug Woolley spoke on ‘Harnessing Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Efficiency and Insights’.

Waldek Wasowicz, partnered with the Head of Sustainability & ESG, Zack Fineberg, to lead a thought-provoking session about integrating sustainability into strategy and staying ahead of the curve.

Alpesh Vadher spoke on the topic ‘Adopting for Impact, Strategy in Action’.

Angie da Silva delivered a presentation titled ‘Driving Growth Innovation and Sustainable Profitability’. She highlighted the need for growth and how a growth strategy can be applied at a regional level - leveraging the collective support of firms coming together at a national level.

Theo Vermaak spoke on the topic: ‘People, Progress and Succession: Shaping the Future of Firm’.

Discussions on sustainability and ESG demonstrated how our African firms are embedding long-term value into their services and operations, while sessions on AI and people explored the balance between innovation and human connection in the evolving professional landscape.

Our gathering culminated with a traditional Nigerian barbecue on Friday evening. Guests donned their finest green and white attire (the colours of the Nigerian flag) and celebrated the country’s rich culture in style.

In line with previous years, delegate gift bags at global events are replaced with donations to good causes. Antony Ranjan of Zambia spoke passionately about the plight of abused females in the country, the activities of PKF Zambia especially in the area of humanitarian support. We’re proud to be supporting Lushomo Home in Zambia this year, an organisation which cares for abused girls. $1,000 was raised at the Africa Gathering – thank you to all members for your commitment to this cause and helping us make a difference.

PKF Global CEO, Theo Vermaak, said, ‘Our Africa Gathering was more than just a meeting. It was a celebration of what it means to be part of a united and forward-thinking professional community. I was struck by the overwhelming sense of pride in the country, the region and the PKF network. I’d like to thank everyone who attended for making this such an unforgettable experience.’

Tajudeen Akande, Managing Partner at PKF Nigeria, said, ‘My heartfelt appreciation to all the delegates from PKF member firms across Africa and beyond for your active participation. Without your engagement, the event would not have been as impactful and memorable as it was.’