[ACCI-CAVIE] For its 4th high-level training session in Abidjan since November 2024, the African Centre for Competitive Intelligence (ACCI) trained and certified 70 executives and leaders from civil society in Ivory Coast in influence diplomacy from 4 to 5 August 2025. Objective: to impact public decision-making before, during, and after the presidential election.

Initiated by Salomon N’Dri, president of FEDEV, and Reverend Professor David Silué, Executive Secretary of FECI, this high-level training series, entrusted to Dr Guy Gweth, president of the ACCI, aimed to equip executives and leaders of Ivorian civil society to influence public decision-making before, during, and after the presidential election. The four sessions successively covered: Geostrategy and augmented collective intelligence (session 1), influence on public decision-making in Africa (session 2), management of intercultural risks (session 3), as well as methods and tools of influence diplomacy for Ivory Coast (session 4).

A Unique Expertise in Strategic Intelligence

In a context of growing economic and geopolitical challenges, the ability of organizations to anticipate, adapt, and influence their environment is a key determinant for success. It is with this in mind that the African Centre for Competitive Intelligence (ACCI) establishes itself as an essential reference on the continent, offering cutting-edge expertise to public and private actors.

Under the leadership of Dr Guy Gweth, its president, the ACCI has developed a flagship catalogue of training programmes that meet the specific needs of African businesses and governments. From competitive intelligence and corporate diplomacy within the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) to crisis management and financial investigations, the Centre’s offerings are designed to strengthen the competitiveness and resilience of organizations facing the complexity of African markets.

Recognition by Leading Actors

The effectiveness of the ACCI is proven by the diversity and prestige of its clientele. Since its creation ten years ago, the organisation has advised and trained leading actors, including public institutions such as the Presidencies of Togo and Ivory Coast, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Benin, as well as renowned private companies like Marsa Maroc and Afriland First Bank. This varied clientele, which also includes numerous associations and chambers of commerce, demonstrates the trust and recognition enjoyed by the Centre across the continent.

The certificate of recognition awarded to Dr Guy Gweth by the Evangelical Federation of Ivory Coast (FECI) for his expertise and involvement is further proof of the positive impact and high quality of the ACCI’s interventions. Following a similar award in June 2025 from the Directorate General for External Research (DGRE) of Cameroon, this recognition coincides with the Centre’s tenth anniversary, during which it has already trained over a thousand leaders and executives in a dozen countries, consolidating its status as a leader in competitive and strategic intelligence in Africa.

An Opportunity for African Actors

For businesses and administrations operating in Africa, the ACCI’s expertise represents a major opportunity. In an environment where decision-making must be quick and well-informed, the Centre offers the tools, methods, and training needed to turn challenges into opportunities. By leveraging ACCI’s skills, African actors can not only protect themselves from risks but also identify new growth opportunities and, more broadly, contribute to sustainable prosperity across the continent.

The Editorial Team (with FECI and FEDEV)