Supply chain sector breaks new ground with founding of Africa-wide body

With the vision of ‘Unified Professional African Supply Chain Standards and Networks’, ASCON seeks to strengthen Africa’s participation in global trade by fostering professionalism, collaboration and shared growth across the continent.  

The organisation was founded in Accra, Ghana, on 22 August 2025 during the joint conferences of the African Marketing Confederation (AMC) and Technology Information Confederation Africa (TICON Africa).  

Several leading supply chain experts were present in Accra to observe the inner workings of the marketing and IT confederations, both of which have made good progress in developing and uniting their respective professions across Africa. The intention is that all three bodies will collaborate closely, given the rapid evolution and convergence of marketing, IT and supply chain. 

In September 2026, ASCON will hold its first conference at Livingstone in Zambia. The AMC and TICON Africa are scheduled to hold their own conferences at the same time. Livingstone is located on the banks of the Zambezi River at Victoria Falls. 

A strategic player in global value chains 

“The strategic importance of elevating the role of the supply chain management profession in Africa for economic development cannot be overstated. ASCON is here to ensure that our continent is not just a participant, but a strategic player in global value chains,” states Ronald Mlalazi, President of ASCON. 

Mlalazi says ASCON is more than an institution; it is a continental movement to align Africa’s supply chain capabilities with global standards while driving inclusive and sustainable growth.  

“By uniting national associations under one professional umbrella, we are positioning Africa for a unified voice to drive reforms across the continent, thereby impacting the people’s lives for growth,” he stresses. 

ASCON’s stated mission is ‘To foster a cohesive African supply chain ecosystem grounded in professionalism, a standard of practice, education and competence, powered by collaborative networks that deliver mutual benefit and continental impact through professional bodies.’ 

To find out more about the African Supply Chain Confederation and its member associations, visit the website.