The ninth edition of the World Investment Forum 2026 officially opened today in Doha, Qatar, bringing together government leaders, investors, business executives, and representatives of international organizations to discuss the future of global investment and sustainable development.
Organized by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in partnership with the State of Qatar, the three-day forum runs from October 25 to 27 under the theme “Investing in the Future.” The opening was attended by Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. More than 5,000 participants are taking part, according to Qatar’s news agency.
The forum provides an international platform for discussing investment policies, sustainable finance, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, climate challenges, and economic development. Its central objective is to explore ways to direct investment toward countries and sectors where it can deliver meaningful development benefits.
According to UNCTAD, global foreign direct investment remains unevenly distributed, with more than 80% of global flows in 2025 going to just 20 economies. The forum therefore seeks to strengthen international cooperation and identify opportunities to mobilize capital for developing economies.
Qatar’s hosting of the event also marks its return as host after the third edition was held in Doha in 2012. The forum was first inaugurated in Accra, Ghana, in 2008.
The US-Africa Initiative is participating in the 2026 gathering, represented by Mr. Nurhussein Ali, who expressed his pride in being part of the international conference.
The initiative’s participation highlights the importance of international engagement and opportunities to strengthen connections between African and American stakeholders in investment, partnership, and sustainable development.
As the forum continues through October 27, discussions are expected to explore new approaches to investment cooperation, resilient economies, and inclusive global growth.
