[ACCI – CAVIE] At the heart of Africa’s geostrategic strategy, competitive intelligence, fervently promoted by the ACCI, proves to be a uniquely effective instrument for strengthening the sovereignty of African states.In a globalised context where power relations are being rapidly redefined, mastering strategic information and transforming it into relevant decision-making levers is a categorical imperative for the continent’s emancipation.This will be the focus of Panel 1 at the 8ᵗʰ African Competitive Intelligence Days (JAIE) on 30–31 May 2025.

Far from being reduced to simple data collection, competitive intelligence – as defined by Dr Guy Gweth, President of the ACCI – stands as a holistic approach encompassing: “A state of mind, a process, and a system of questioning, collecting, processing, analysing and securely transmitting useful intelligence for economic decision-making in competitive, hostile, or uncertain environments.” This approach enhances African nations’ ability to anticipate environmental shifts, thwart external manoeuvres, and steer public policies with full awareness.

True sovereignty extends beyond politics – it embraces the economic, technological, and informational spheres. Competitive intelligence positions itself as a vital catalyst in each of these areas.Economically, it helps identify endogenous development opportunities, strengthen local business competitiveness, and negotiate fairer international partnerships.Technologically, it promotes strategic monitoring to acquire, adapt and create innovations locally.Informationally, it contributes to fighting disinformation, safeguarding public debate integrity, and ensuring states can shape their own narratives.

The ACCI’s approach, underpinned by the Risk and Opportunity Intelligence System (SIRO), stresses the importance of an African ownership of competitive intelligence tools and methods, adapted to local realities. It emphasises training local experts, building intra-African information exchange networks, and setting up national and regional structures dedicated to competitive intelligence.

Ultimately, competitive intelligence – in its highest form – is not a panacea but a fundamental pillar for building a sovereign Africa capable of navigating global complexities and defending its vital interests with lucidity and determination.

The Editorial Team