The University of Nairobi, on June 16, 2026, hosted the Pan-African Symposium on Logistics, Supply Chain and Strategic Business (PASCL) Conference, bringing together scholars, researchers, policymakers, industry leaders and students from more than 20 universities and institutions across Africa and beyond to deliberate on emerging trends and solutions shaping the future of logistics, supply chain management and strategic business.

The symposium was officially opened by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance, Planning and Development, Prof. Josiah Aduda, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Eng. Prof Ayub N. Gitau.

The PASCL Conference, which serves as a premier Pan-African platform for knowledge exchange, research dissemination, policy dialogue and academic networking, seeks to strengthen collaboration between academia, industry and government in addressing contemporary challenges affecting supply chains, trade, business strategy and sustainable development across the continent.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Aduda welcomed the delegates and noted that the broad representation at the conference underscores the growing importance of collaborative scholarship and strategic partnerships in shaping Africa's future. He commended participants for their commitment to advancing knowledge and strengthening academic cooperation across the continent.

“The symposium comes at a pivotal moment as Africa seeks innovative, sustainable and locally driven solutions to the complex challenges facing its societies. Universities have a unique responsibility not only to generate knowledge but also to translate research into practical solutions that improve livelihoods, strengthen institutions and accelerate socio-economic transformation,” added Prof Aduda.

Describing PASCL as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration, Prof. Aduda said the five-day symposium provides an opportunity for scholars, policymakers, industry leaders and students to exchange ideas, present research findings, build professional networks and explore innovative approaches to logistics, supply chain management and strategic business that can contribute to sustainable development and regional integration.

He reaffirmed the University of Nairobi's commitment to excellence in teaching, research, innovation and community engagement, noting that strong partnerships among universities, government, industry and society are essential for nurturing transformational leadership and generating impactful research.

“The symposium exemplifies the value of Pan-African academic cooperation. By bringing together institutions from diverse countries and disciplines, the conference creates opportunities for the co-creation of knowledge, joint research initiatives, staff & student exchange programmes and stronger academic networks that will continue to thrive beyond the conference,” emphasised Prof Aduda.

The PASCL conference is expected to strengthen regional and international collaborations while fostering innovative solutions to contemporary challenges in logistics, supply chain management, and strategic business, further positioning the University of Nairobi as a leading hub for research, innovation, and academic partnerships in Africa