By Our Reporter
The Connected Africa Summit 2026 will take place from April 27 to 30 at The Edge Convention Centre in Nairobi, bringing together Africa’s leading policymakers, innovators, and technology leaders.
The four-day event, organised by the ICT Authority of Kenya, is expected to be one of the continent’s most influential gatherings on the digital economy this year.
Held under the theme “Uniting Africa’s Innovation for an Inclusive Digital Market,” the summit will convene key stakeholders to advance Africa’s digital agenda. Building on the 2024 and 2025 editions, this year’s focus shifts toward measurable outcomes and sustained implementation.
Key discussions will centre on artificial intelligence, digital public infrastructure, and cybersecurity, alongside areas such as digital identity, fintech, connectivity, smart infrastructure, cloud computing, data governance, and innovation ecosystems.
The summit aims to foster partnerships across government, the private sector, academia, and development organisations, with a strong emphasis on aligning investments and accelerating Africa’s transition to a competitive digital economy.
Speaking during a press briefing, ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo said this year’s theme builds on previous editions while placing greater emphasis on tangible results. ICT Authority CEO Jessy Maruti highlighted the importance of leveraging the digital economy to create opportunities for young people and stressed the need for stronger continental integration.
A key highlight will be the launch of the Connected Africa Secretariat, to be chaired by Kenya, aimed at enhancing coordination, accountability, and long-term collaboration across the continent.
Industry players, including Safaricom and Huawei Technologies Kenya, have also underscored the importance of public-private partnerships, improved connectivity, and digital skills development in driving Africa’s transformation.
The summit will feature participation from ministers and senior delegations across Africa, including Ethiopia, Malawi, Uganda, Gabon, Guinea, Chad, and Zimbabwe.
