The stage is set for what promises to be one of the most significant gatherings of human resource professionals and business leaders in Africa, as the HR Focus Africa Conference and Awards 2025 prepares to welcome hundreds of delegates to the Accra International Conference Centre on Friday, 17th October 2025, beginning at 8:30am.
Under the compelling theme “Equity, Innovation and Impact: Reimagining Work and Talent in Africa’s Emerging Future,” this year’s conference brings together an exceptional lineup of thought leaders, practitioners and innovators who will share insights on navigating the rapidly evolving world of work across the African continent.
The conference’s impressive speaker roster features Rt Hon Chloe Smith, former UK Cabinet Minister and current President of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, who will bring her extensive experience from the highest levels of government and her groundbreaking work as the first in the G7 to lead both AI and labour market ministries. Named the most influential person in technology in the UK in 2023, Smith’s expertise in technological change, workforce transformation and inclusive leadership promises to offer invaluable perspectives on Africa’s digital future.
From Ghana’s own halls of leadership comes Professor Victor Kwame Agyeman, Chairman of the Public Services Commission, whose remarkable career spans tropical forest ecology, law, and scientific research. As a Fellow of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences with over 130 publications and consulting experience with major international organisations including the World Bank and African Development Bank, Professor Agyeman brings a uniquely African perspective to sustainable development and institutional excellence.
Dr Francis Eduku, Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management Ghana, will share his more than two decades of HR leadership experience spanning multinational gold mining firms and various executive roles. His journey from Vice President positions at Gold Fields and Golden Star Resources to championing HR excellence across Ghana makes him particularly well placed to address the practical realities facing African organisations today.
The conference has assembled a distinguished panel of HR directors and leaders currently shaping workforce strategies across major corporations in Ghana and beyond. Georgina Bartels, Director of People Business Partner for Africa at Newmont, brings 23 years of experience driving people and culture strategies across the continent’s mining, logistics, telecom and banking sectors. Her expertise in inclusive workplace design and change management will resonate with organisations navigating transformation.
Rachael Appenteng, Human Resources Director at Telecel Ghana, adds an international dimension with her 20 years of experience across financial and healthcare sectors in Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East, including 15 years in Hong Kong with institutions like JPMorgan Chase, UBS and Credit Suisse. Her global perspective on workforce transformation and passionate advocacy for women’s empowerment enriches the conference’s commitment to equity and inclusion.
Also joining the conversation is Maataa Safoa Boakye, whose global talent and HR career spans Africa, the UK and Lithuania. As an SPHRi-certified professional and adjunct lecturer at the HR Certification Centre, she represents the new generation of African HR leaders combining international credentials with commitment to developing local talent.
Dr Prince Aning from Ashesi University brings academic rigour to the discussions with his research on how businesses innovate in challenging environments. His work advising growth-oriented SMEs across Africa and his focus on industrial policy relevant to start-ups offers practical insights for organisations building resilient business models.
From Nigeria, Joel Omeike, Founder and Lead Consultant at P4PE Institute for Professional Excellence in Africa, contributes over 22 years of strategic HR expertise. His specialisation in organisational development, HR transformation and data analysis, combined with international consulting experience across Ghana, Namibia and South Africa, positions him to address the continent’s unique HR challenges.
Clement Wiredu, current CEO of Becksworth Consulting and former CEO of the Institute of Directors Ghana, rounds out the speaker lineup with his people-centred approach to project management, recruiting and change management. His expertise in workshop facilitation and human capital development training will prove invaluable for delegates seeking actionable strategies.
Speaking about the upcoming conference, Managing Director of L’AINE HR Mr. James Laar said, “We are excited to host the HR Focus Africa Conference and Awards once again — a platform that drives innovation, celebrates excellence, and inspires collaboration across the HR landscape. As the world of work evolves, we remain committed to shaping the future of HR in Africa.”
The conference promises insightful discussions, corporate exhibitions and the prestigious HR Focus Africa Awards, recognising excellence and innovation in human resource management across the continent. With ticket prices set at GHS 5,100 for standard entry, GHS 2,100 for VIP access and GHS 510 for virtual attendance, the event offers universe members an attractive 40 per cent discount on both standard and virtual tickets.
The impressive roster of sponsors including Laine HR, Workflow, Pensol, Translight Solar, Newmont, Petrosor, and numerous other leading organisations underscores the business community’s commitment to advancing HR excellence in Africa.
As Africa’s demographic dividend continues to grow and the continent positions itself as a global economic force, the conversations at this year’s HR Focus Africa Conference could not be more timely. The gathering offers a rare opportunity for HR professionals, business leaders and policymakers to engage with cutting-edge thinking on talent management, innovation and organisational transformation.
For more information and registration, visit www.hrfocusevents.com or contact 0509020204.
