SAPICS reveals 2026 conference programme

Supply chain industry body SAPICS has released a first look at the programme for its 2026 conference, including a dedicated stream focused on how artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation and emerging technologies are reshaping supply chains.

Now in its 48^th year, the annual SAPICS Conference is Africa’s premier learning, knowledge-sharing and networking event for the supply chain profession. It brings together industry leaders, practitioners and innovators from across the sector. Significantly, this year’s event, to be held in Cape Town from 19 to 22 July, marks the association’s 60th anniversary.

The SAPICS conference comes at a time when global supply chains are facing extraordinary disruption and challenges. “Supply chain managers are currently facing intense, multifaceted pressures as they transition from pandemic-era crisis management to building long-term resilience,” explains SAPICS.

“They are navigating geopolitical instability, tariffs and trade wars, unreliable logistics, cost volatility and ESG compliance to keep goods moving where and when they are needed. It is more important than ever to stay up to date on the latest solutions, trends, tools and technologies, and to build relationships and collaborate.”

This year’s programme features a dedicated stream exploring the practical application of AI, digital tools and technology in supply chain management. A session by Yomi Kazeem from Salient Advisory focuses on one of the most critical sectors for innovation: healthcare. Kazeem will share insights into how AI is improving efficiency, transparency and resilience in healthcare supply chains.

In his presentation, “Leading Digital Transformation in the AI Era: Moving at Speed While Foundations Catch Up,” Michael Schlebusch from Zula360 will offer a strategic perspective on how organisations can drive digital transformation at a pace while ensuring that data, systems and governance foundations evolve alongside rapidly advancing AI capabilities.

The rise of intelligent agents will be explored in a presentation by Abf Sugar’s Melicia Buddan. She contends that intelligent agents and applied AI are already influencing supply chains across businesses – from large corporates to entrepreneurs – and will outline what practical implementation looks like today.

Steven Sutherland from Powerfleet, meanwhile, will give a presentation on data-driven infrastructure, in which he will explore how AI, advanced analytics and video intelligence are shaping the next generation of secure, responsive and resilient supply networks.

Registration is open for the 2026 SAPICS Conference and delegates are encouraged to book early to take advantage of reduced Early Bird fees – available until the end of May. To find out more or to register, visit https://conference.sapics.org, or contact the SAPICS 2026 Secretariat on +27 31 303 9852 or via email at kimera@confco.co.za.