The ARFSD Secretariate invited UN agencies, regional organizations, civil society, private sector actors, academia, governmental bodies and innovation hubs to participate in the Knowledge Fair and Exhibition to be held on the margins of ARFSD 12, from 28–30 April 2026 at the United Nations Conference Centre in Addis Ababa.
Purpose of the Knowledge Fair & Exhibition
The Knowledge Fair is an integral platform of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development. It showcases practical solutions, innovative tools, evidence based results, and transferable models that support accelerated implementation of the SDGs 6, 7, 9, 11 and 17, alongside related aspirations of Agenda 2063. This year’s edition places strong emphasis on digital content, screen based storytelling, and minimal print materials, in line with UN sustainability commitments. (See Concept Note: Add the link to the concept Note)
1. What We Are Calling For
A. Success Stories (Digital Format)
Participants are invited to submit one success story using the official template.
Stories should clearly articulate:
- The challenge addressed
- The approach or solution used
- Key results and evidence
- Impact, scalability, and relevance to national priorities
- Lessons learned
- Partners involved
Stories will be converted into digital knowledge products displayed on screen at the for the Knowledge Fair. More information on drafting your success stories can be accessed at (Link to the guidelines)
B. Exhibition Booths (Digital Heavy, Minimal Print)
Organizations may apply for an exhibition booth to display:
- Digital demonstrations
- Short videos
- Interactive tools
- Innovation showcases
- High impact visuals or models
In keeping with this year’s sustainability guidelines, printed materials will be kept to a minimum.
2. Booth Specifications and Cost
- Standard booth: 2m × 3m × 2m
- TV screens, Totems
- Chairs, counter, table
- Cost per booth: USD 2,000 (covers booth setup and digital/print material development)
Booth allocation follows a first come, first served review based on relevance and alignment with the Forum’s theme.
3. Eligibility & Alignment
All submissions must align with the SDGS covered in ARSFD-12 as follows:
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
- Related priority areas of Agenda 2063
4. Deadlines
- Submission of success stories: 3rd April 2026
- Application for exhibition space: 3rd April 2026
- Confirmation of participation & payment: Upon acceptance
5. How to Participate
Applicants should submit:
- Completed success story template
- Expression of interest for an exhibition booth
To secure a space, please submit a completed exhibition/knowledge fair application form to the ARSFD-12 Secretariat through <online exhibition request form> by the 3rd April 2026.