New Era for African Supply Chains as ASCON sets unified standards

Johannesburg, South Africa, 20 November 2025 The African Supply Chain Confederation (ASCON) has officially launched, marking a turning point for Africa’s role in global trade. Founded in Accra, Ghana, on August 22, 2025, ASCON aims to unite professional standards and networks across the continent to strengthen competitiveness and collaboration.

Africa’s supply chains are under pressure to adapt to global disruptions and seize opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). ASCON provides a unified framework to professionalise the sector, ensuring Africa is not just a participant but a strategic player in global value chains.

“Elevating the role of supply chain management in Africa is critical for economic development. ASCON will ensure Africa becomes a strategic player in global value chains,” said Ronald Mlalazi, ASCON President (FCIPS, FCILT).

ASCON’s mission is to foster a cohesive African supply chain ecosystem grounded in professionalism and collaboration. Key pillars include:

• Establishing ethical codes and accreditation frameworks
• Advancing standardised qualifications and continuous professional development
• Fostering cross-border partnerships and professional alliances
• Promoting research, publications, and knowledge exchange

Dr. Simon Annan, Chairman of the Advisory Board (FCIPS, FGIPS, FIPMP, MCILT, MBA), emphasised: “Professional bodies across Africa must collaborate to strengthen governance and elevate supply chain roles in their countries. Our collective efforts will build resilience and growth.”

ASCON offers:

• A unified framework for professional mobility and recognition
• Support for resource mobilization and membership growth
• Platforms for networking and partnerships
• Advocacy to shape policy and promote best practices.

John Karani, Secretary General (MBS, MCIPS, MKISM, CMILT), added: “Elevating competencies and ethical standards will enable greater mobility and quality of work for professionals across Africa.”

ASCON is committed to positioning Africa as a leader in global supply chain development.

Professor Douglas Boateng, Goodwill Ambassador (MSc, EngD, FCILT, FSOE, FIPlantE, FCMI, FIC, FInst.D, FGhIE, FIOM, FCIPS, FloD, CEng, CDir), Africa’s first Professor Extraordinaire in Supply and Value Chain Management, underscores the importance of professionalising supply chains to unlock industrialisation, reduce waste, and strengthen competitiveness under AfCFTA.

“The Africa we desire is in our hands. By integrating supply chains, we can deliver generational impact,” said Professor Boateng.

About ASCON

The African Supply Chain Confederation (ASCON) unifies professional African supply chain standards and networks. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, ASCON fosters a cohesive ecosystem that empowers professional bodies and drives continental impact.

ISSUED ON BEHALF OF THE AFRICAN SUPPLY CHAIN CONFEDERATION

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