Historic first: University of Johannesburg to host 2026 African Accounting and Finance Association Conference
Members of the African Accounting and Finance Association (AAFA) executive committee ahead of the 2026 AAFA Annual Conference, which will be hosted for the first time by UJ’s Department of Commercial Accounting.
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The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has been selected as the official host of the African Accounting and Finance Association (AAFA) Annual Conference in 2026. It will be the first international conference hosted by UJ’s Department of Commercial Accounting.
The AAFA Conference is regarded as one of the most respected gatherings of scholars, policymakers and industry leaders in accounting and finance. It will bring together hundreds of delegates from across Africa and beyond to exchange knowledge, share research and collaborate on economic and financial challenges.
Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UJ, said to be chosen to host the AAFA 2026 Conference is a proud moment for the university and recognition of its commitment to Africa-focused scholarship. “This platform will allow us to showcase our leadership in accounting and finance education and foster dialogue that drives real impact for communities across our continent. At UJ, we are committed to co-creating knowledge that is not only academically rigorous but also socially impactful. This platform will allow us to amplify African voices in global debates and to shape solutions that are both innovative and home-grown.”
Professor Tankiso Moloi, Executive Dean of the College of Business and Economics, said hosting the 2026 AAFA Conference is both an honour and a responsibility. He highlighted the contributions of UJ’s leadership team and partners, naming Professor Ben Marx, Director of the School of Accounting, Ms. Boitumelo Kuzwayo, Head of the Department of Commercial Accounting, and Ms. Lulama Boyce, Senior Lecturer.
Moloi said the confidence shown in UJ is a testament to the university’s ability to convene critical conversations in the profession and foster collaboration for sustainable African solutions. Echoing Professor Mpedi’s statements, he described the event as a historic milestone for the Department as it prepares to host its first international conference. He also emphasised the importance of inspiring the next generation of African scholars and professionals through dialogue and innovation.
Dr Sedzani Musundwa, Senior Lecturer at Unisa and AAFA Southern Africa Region Representative (2023–2025), stressed the role of academics in bridging research, practice and societal needs, noting the opportunities that AAFA 2026 will bring. UJ’s selection underscores its standing as one of Africa’s leading higher education institutions, known for driving Africa-focused research, capacity building and international collaboration.
Further details about the 2026 AAFA Conference, including dates, themes and speaker line-up, will be announced in due course.