KPMG 2025 CEO Outlook Survey – Africa Edition

Key Findings

• CEOs identify generative AI, talent, ESG, and cybersecurity as the top four forces shaping their strategic priorities.
• 71% of African CEOs are investing in AI and talent to drive growth and resilience.
• 86% of African CEOs plan acquisitions in the next three years, signaling a strong appetite for expansion.
• 88% expect to increase headcount, with AI seen as a complement to human capability.
• ESG remains a priority, with 79% confidence in navigating regulatory differences across markets.
• Regional integration and cross-border collaboration are emerging as growth accelerators, with African CEOs increasingly prioritising intra-African trade and market expansion aligned to AfCFTA opportunities.

Wednesday, 5 November 2025 - Despite global economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, African CEOs are optimistic about their own organisations’ growth prospects. This is according to the KPMG 2025 Africa CEO Outlook Survey, which captures the perspectives of 130 CEOs across Southern, East, and West Africa. The survey forms part of KPMG’s global CEO Outlook, now in its 11th year, which includes insights from 1,350 CEOs across 11 markets.

"This year’s results reflect a confident and pragmatic leadership mindset across the continent. African CEOs are not only adapting to global challenges but are actively investing in the future through AI, talent, and sustainable growth strategies. The outlook is clear: resilience and innovation will define Africa’s growth story." – Ignatius Sehoole, CEO of KPMG South Africa and CEO KPMG One Africa.