Gwango hosts the 2026 ELISA Business Summit

Mar 26, 2026

Gwango was in conference mode last week as we hosted the 2026 ELISA Business Summit, welcoming over 150 attendees from across Africa and beyond. Most participants arrived a day early, settling in before a full day of discussions, meetings and exchanges focused on the practical realities of cross-border enterprise expansion.

The Summit brought together founders, investors, corporate leaders and policymakers, all engaging around the theme “Business Beyond Borders.” Throughout the day, sessions focused on the practical side of expanding across African markets. Conversations covered everything from building strong business models and navigating supply chains to financing growth and understanding the evolving policy environment under the AfCFTA.

This year’s Summit also coincided with the start of the ELISA Business Scholars program. A new cohort of entrepreneurs from multiple countries began their journey with an in-person training session in Hwange.

Behind the scenes, this event also marked an important moment for Gwango. The new conference center at Gwango Heritage Resort was completed just in time to host the Summit. ELISA 2025 was the first large gathering to make use of the space, following months of construction and preparation. The addition allows Gwango to host more structured group events while still maintaining the setting that our guests have come to expect - the open spaces, wildlife and time spent outdoors.

What stood out during the week was how naturally the formal and informal parts of the experience came together. Between sessions, attendees stepped away from meeting rooms and into a completely different environment. Some chose to go on safaris in Hwange National Park, others visited the Gobelo farm to learn how community and agriculture are creating linkages to the broader work happening within the region. Evenings were just as full, with time spent on night safaris and around the fire pit and conversations continuing well after the day’s program had ended. We even carved out time for a glamorous dinner event at the brand newly unveiled Outpost building, where delegates danced the night away to the sounds of the renowned Travellers Band.

For many, the journey did not end in Hwange. Several delegates continued on to Victoria Falls, extending their stay to experience more of Zimbabwe’s natural beauty. With the recent rains, Mosi-oa-Tunya is at its most powerful - offering a truly spectacular sight.

Welcoming a group like this signals a broader shift in what Gwango is becoming. Beyond tourism and conservation, it is emerging as a space for convening, where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are formed, and work takes shape. The landscape is constant; its use is evolving.

For those looking for a destination for incentive travel, retreats, workshops or conferences, the search is over! Our reservations team will gladly share more info about our available spaces, accommodation and how Gwango can curate a truly unique experience for everyone involved. Enquiries can be sent to reservations@gwango.com