Celebrating a Decade of Excellence: ACCPA’s Impact on Anti-Money Laundering Compliance in Africa
Los Angeles, CA, February 19, 2026 – As the Association of Certified Compliance Professionals in Africa (ACCPA) marks its 10th anniversary, it reflects on a decade devoted to enhancing anti-money laundering (AML) compliance standards across the African continent. Established in 2015, ACCPA has transformed into a vital community for professionals navigating the specific regulatory environments of over 40 African countries.
A Focused Mission
Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, ACCPA was founded to fill the gap in specialized AML training customized for African markets. Over the years, the organization has prioritized education, industry engagement, and certification programs. These initiatives aim to elevate compliance practices and support the career progression of individuals working in financial institutions and related sectors.
ACCPA Group Photo
ACCPA Certification: A Tailored Approach
At the heart of ACCPA’s initiatives is the ACCPA Certification, specially designed for compliance practitioners in African jurisdictions. This professional accreditation emphasizes local AML risk typologies, incorporating practical case studies and relevant regulatory insights. Unlike global certifications, ACCPA’s program directly addresses Africa-specific compliance challenges.
AML compliance in Africa presents unique complexities, including varied regulatory frameworks and rising financial technologies. The ACCPA Certification equips professionals with practical instruction, applicable to their unique context across different institutional settings.
ACCPA Panel Discussion
Bridging Global Standards and Local Practices
A key objective of ACCPA is to bridge international AML standards with local implementation. By presenting global compliance frameworks from an African perspective, the organization empowers professionals with the tools to interpret and apply international regulations effectively within their domestic markets. This method underscores the belief that sustainable compliance requires a deep understanding of regional intricacies.
ACCPA Award
Recognizing Excellence in Compliance
In addition to its certification programs, ACCPA honors exceptional contributions to compliance through the ACCPA Award. Since its establishment in 2016, this annual recognition has celebrated AML professionals who have shown a tangible impact on compliance practices within their organizations and communities. The award has gained industry-wide acknowledgment as a prestigious symbol of professional excellence.
The influence of ACCPA is evident in the numerous certified professionals now occupying leadership positions in banks, financial institutions, and compliance teams throughout Africa. As regulatory demands and financial crime risks evolve, organizations increasingly rely on individuals trained under ACCPA’s framework.
ACCPA Event
Looking Ahead: The Future of ACCPA
As ACCPA enters its second decade, it remains committed to enhancing training opportunities, fostering industry dialogue, and facilitating collaboration among compliance professionals. These efforts are critical in protecting the integrity of financial systems across Africa and ensuring effective AML practices prevail in evolving economic landscapes.
About ACCPA
The Association of Certified Compliance Professionals in Africa (ACCPA) is dedicated to advancing AML compliance education and professional development across Africa. Founded in 2015 by Ernie Honya, ACCPA serves members in over 40 African countries, offering certification programs, industry events, and initiatives aimed at fostering robust compliance practices tailored for African markets.
