Spaces for Change (S4C) is partnering the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), with support from local and international partners, to convene the third edition of the yearly Africa High-Level Civil Society Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Conference.

According to the Executive Director of S4C, Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, the conference will take place from July 14 to 17, 2026, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, under the theme, ‘Implementing FATF Recommendation 8 Correctly: Practices, Lessons Learned and Opportunities for Reform.’

The conference builds on the growing recognition of civil society as a critical partner to governments in tackling money laundering and terrorism financing.

This year’s edition will bring together over 200 participants from around the world, including representatives of African governments, FATF-style regional bodies (FSRBs), non-profit organisations, law enforcement agencies, regional and economic bodies, financial intelligence units, financial institutions, diplomatic missions, indigenous groups, academia and international organisations.

“Discussions will focus on developing locally grounded, context-sensitive solutions to financial crimes across Africa, while ensuring that AML/CFT measures are implemented in ways that do not constrain civic space or adversely impact communities,” Ibezim-Ohaeri stated.

Since its inception, the conference has provided a vital platform for examining both the progress and the challenges associated with implementing FATF Recommendation Eight across the continent.

Previous editions, held in Kampala (Uganda) and Gaborone (Botswana), critically assessed national AML/CFT frameworks, advanced calls for tailored risk-mitigation approaches and advocated a rights-based approach to implementation that will not stifle the humanitarian efforts of development organisations.

Designed as a continental platform for conferences within a conference, this edition will feature four specialised masterclasses, disruptive remarks/speeches, dynamic panel sessions and in-depth engagements designed to unpack the FATF Recommendations, evaluate their application across sectors and identify practical pathways for reform.

s Africa continues to navigate the complex intersection of regional, financial security and civic freedoms, this conference offers a timely opportunity to strengthen collaboration, deepen mutual understanding and chart a more balanced and effective course for AML/CFT implementation.

By fostering dialogue among key stakeholders and amplifying evidence-based, locally-driven perspectives, the confab aims to advance reforms that safeguard both financial systems and the indispensable role of civil society across the continent.