As global financial and insurance markets navigate an era of unprecedented volatility, insurance leaders, reinsurers, regulators, and policy experts from across the globe will converge in Harare, Zimbabwe, from September 27 to 30, 2026, for the 24th Annual Association of Insurers and Reinsurers of Developing Countries (AIRDC) Conference.
Hosted at the Rainbow Towers Hotels, this flagship event is organized in collaboration with the Insurance Council of Zimbabwe (ICZ). Expecting over 500 decision-makers and high-level delegates representing more than 40 nations, the conference stands as one of the premier gatherings for insurance professionals dedicated to advancing financial protection across emerging markets.
Navigating disruptions: the 2026 theme
This year’s conference centers on a pivotal theme: “strengthening insurance resilience for developing countries amid geopolitical and technological disruptions.”
As developing nations face a complex landscape, ranging from macro-economic shifts and regulatory transitions to rapid digital transformation and severe climate risks, the regional insurance sector faces both a challenge and a mandate. The 2026 agenda is structured to address how emerging markets can fortify their underwriting frameworks, leverage innovative tech, and build sustainable risk-retention models to protect populations and economies.
Leadership insights
The AIRDC Secretary General Januario Aliwalas emphasized the role of international cooperation in safeguarding economic development:
“The AIRDC Conference serves as a critical bridge for developing countries to pool knowledge, share adaptive risk strategies, and build institutional strength against systemic global shocks.”
Echoing these sentiments, Patrick Kusikwenyu, Local Organising Committee (LOC) Chairman for AIRDC 2026, highlighted Zimbabwe’s readiness to host the premier event:
“We extend a warm welcome to our fellow insurers and reinsurers to Harare. This gathering comes at a crucial junction where collaboration across African markets and broader developing nations will define our collective capacity to withstand disruption.”
What to expect: 2026 agenda
Keynotes & strategic panels: Industry leaders, policymakers, and technical specialists will examine digital transformation, climate resilience, regulatory alignment, and regional capacity building,
Networking & partnerships: Dedicated sessions will connect global reinsurers, primary insurers, and tech innovators seeking strategic partnerships across developing markets.
Driving the future of emerging market insurance
For African insurers and stakeholders across developing economies, AIRDC 2026 offers an essential forum to shape policy, learn from peer markets, and strengthen localized resilience strategies.
Registration and sponsorship options are open via the official AIRDC 2026 Conference Portal.