ROME-
The Enrico Mattei Conference, held as part of the Africa Day 2026 commemoration, provided an engaging platform for intellectual discourse on Italy-Africa relations, energy diplomacy, and the future of collaboration between Europe and the African continent held on the 24th May, 2026 in Rome, ltaly.
The conference opened with a touching presentation by Pina Carbone, who introduced the subject through her book, narrating her personal experiences with her husband, who worked closely with Enrico Mattei, the renowned founder and head of ENI. She reflected on Mattei’s vision for Africa and recounted the tragic loss of his life in an internal Italian flight accident.
Her presentation highlighted Mattei’s commitment to building strategic partnerships with African nations, especially in the energy sector, where Italy leveraged its technological expertise to establish mutually beneficial agreements with African countries.
Professor Gianluigi Rossi delivered a thought-provoking lecture on the “Mattei Plan” as it stands today. He emphasized that Italy’s engagement with Africa predates the modern Mattei Plan, noting the longstanding presence of Italy on the continent through the activities of the National Hydrocarbons Agency and other development initiatives.
The First Secretary of the Embassy of Lesotho in Italy, Mr. Molumaele Lepeli, expressed keen interest in the Mattei Plan while observing that its impact and implementation are yet to be significantly felt in Southern Africa, particularly in Lesotho and neighboring countries.
Italian journalist Ettore Lembo offered a critical perspective, stating that the Mattei Plan currently appears to be more about image-building than substantial implementation. His remarks sparked conversations about the need for more concrete actions and measurable outcomes in Italy-Africa partnerships.
Adding a political and institutional dimension to the conference, Senator Tony Iwobi of the Italian Parliament delivered institutional greetings in English and introduced key discussions surrounding Africa Day and Italy-Africa cooperation. His remarks underscored the importance of dialogue, inclusion, and international collaboration.
Greetings were also delivered by Priest Stephanus Karwapa from Namibia, who emphasized the importance of unity, spirituality, and stronger cultural ties between Africa and Europe.
Michelina Gabrie Sanquest spoke passionately about her efforts to engage with the Italian government in mobilizing financial and developmental support for Lesotho, highlighting the importance of inclusive international cooperation.
The conference was introduced and moderated by Ing. Maurizio Scarponi alongside Emanuela Scarponi, who provided insightful explanations on the history and significance of African Union Day celebrated annually on May 25. They also shared historical perspectives on Lesotho’s unique geographical and political position within South Africa, emphasizing the broader significance of African unity and identity.
Overall, the conference served as a meaningful reflection on the legacy of Enrico Mattei, the evolving Italy-Africa relationship, and the urgent need for stronger, practical, and mutually beneficial cooperation between Africa and Europe.
