It has never been more important for African economies to institute robust insolvency systems as Africa continues to make remarkable economic strides. Advanced jurisdictions across the globe recognise the importance of strong insolvency laws which are a crucial safety-valve in market-oriented economies. This knowledge triggered the modernisation of insolvency systems that commenced in the 1970s. 

African countries likewise require robust insolvency systems which, for instance, deal decisively with failed companies while providing their potentially viable counterparts with further opportunities for economic success. Recognising the unique position of academics in midwifing the desired change, this colloquium invited academics and practitioners interested in Africa to provide insights on the current state of national insolvency laws, global developments in insolvency law, as well as guidance on the introduction of targeted reforms in African systems.

The programme included overviews of some existing systems and reform initiatives, overviews of recent or proposed reforms and their adequacy, the OHADA Uniform Act on Insolvency in Rwanda and a perspective from the European Union. Eleven African countries were represented, of which chairs and speakers represented nine African countries, namely Angola, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe. Speakers and chairs from The Netherlands and the UK also attended the colloquium, as well as a senior private sector development specialist and a senior operations officer on investment climate advisory services of the World Bank.  

The colloquium served as a platform to initiate discussions on the future establishment of a dedicated academic forum at which ideas on the advancement of insolvency laws in Africa could be discussed, and collaboration engendered amongst members. 

Professor Andre Boraine, Dean Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria and Co-Director for the Centre for Advanced Corporate and Insolvency Law and Dr Bolanle Adebola, a postdoctoral associate at University College London (UCL), were the organisers of this event.

Top to bottom, lftr: 
1.  Prof David Burdette
2.  James Mutizwa
3.  Tewodros Meheret Kebede
4.  Adam Harris
5.  Prof Sophia Vale
6.  Antonia Mennens, Adam Harris & Prof David Burdette
7.  Marthinus Cronje
8.  Miguel-Angelo Almeida
9.  Sacky Shangala
10. Dr  Bolanle Adebola
11. Anne Mennens, Prof Michael Veder and Prof Nick Huls
12. Prof Nick Huls
13. Sacky Shangala 
14. Miguel-Angelo Almeida
15. Anne Mennens and Prof Michael Veder
16. Salvatore Mancuso
17. Lina Msanga
18. Prof Harry Rajak
19. Craig Giesze
20. Anne Mennens and Prof Michael Veder.
21. Robert Kirunda