Spaces for Change partners SCUML for 3rd high-level AML/CFT conference in Abuja
Spaces for Change (S4C) has announced a major partnership with the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to host the 3rd High-Level Africa Civil Society AML/CFT Conference in Abuja from July 14 to 17, 2026.
The conference, supported by local and international partners, will convene under the theme: “Implementing FATF Recommendation 8 Correctly: Practices, Lessons Learned and Opportunities for Reform.”
In a press statement signed by its Executive Director, Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, Spaces for Change described the event as a critical platform for advancing effective anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) measures across Africa without undermining civic space.
“This year’s edition will bring together over 200 participants from around the world, including representatives from African governments, FATF-style regional bodies (FSRBs), non-profit organizations, law enforcement agencies, regional and economic bodies, financial intelligence units, financial institutions, diplomatic missions, indigenous groups, academia, and international organizations,” the statement read.
The organizers emphasized that discussions will prioritize locally grounded, context-sensitive solutions to financial crimes while ensuring AML/CFT measures do not constrain civic freedoms or harm vulnerable communities.
“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,” the press statement noted.
Now in its third year, the conference builds on the successes of previous editions held in Kampala, Uganda, and Gaborone, Botswana. Those gatherings critically examined national AML/CFT frameworks and pushed for tailored, rights-based approaches.
“Since its inception, the conference has provided a vital platform for examining both the progress and the challenges associated with implementing FATF Recommendation 8 across the continent.
Previous editions have critically assessed national AML/CFT frameworks, advanced calls for tailored risk-mitigation approaches, and advocated for a rights-based approach to implementation that will not stifle the humanitarian efforts of development organizations,” the statement said.
This year’s program is structured as “a continental platform for conferences within a conference,” featuring four specialized masterclasses, disruptive speeches, dynamic panel sessions, and in-depth engagements aimed at unpacking the FATF Recommendations and identifying practical pathways for reform.
“As 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,” she stated.
Ibezim-Ohaeri stressed the importance of the gathering at a time when Africa is navigating the delicate balance between financial security and civic freedoms.
“By fostering dialogue among key stakeholders and amplifying evidence-based, locally driven perspectives, the convening aims to advance reforms that safeguard both financial systems and the indispensable role of civil society across the continent,” the statement said.
The 3rd Africa High-Level Civil Society AML/CFT Conference is expected to produce actionable recommendations that will shape more effective and rights-respecting AML/CFT policies across the continent.
