Connected Africa Summit 2026 to Convene Policymakers and Tech Leaders in Nairobi
PS John Kipchumba Tanui and ICT Authority receive a cheque from Safaricom for the Connected Africa Summit 2026.
NAIROBI, Kenya, April 2026 — Policymakers, innovators and technology leaders from across the continent are set to converge in Nairobi for the Connected Africa Summit 2026, scheduled to take place from April 27 to April 30, 2026, at the The Edge Convention Centre.
Organised by the ICT Authority, the four-day summit will run daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (EAT) and is expected to be one of the continent’s most senior gatherings focused on advancing Africa’s digital economy.
Held under the theme “Uniting Africa’s Innovation for an Inclusive Digital Market,” the summit will bring together key stakeholders and thought leaders to shape Africa’s digital future. The 2026 edition builds on momentum from previous years, shifting focus from vision and dialogue to measurable delivery and sustained action.
Key discussions will centre on emerging priorities including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), and cybersecurity, alongside topics such as digital identity, fintech, connectivity, smart infrastructure, cloud computing, data governance and innovation ecosystems.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Serena Hotel, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, emphasised the need for tangible outcomes. He noted that this year’s theme builds on previous editions and underscores the urgency of translating digital ambitions into measurable results.
Jessy Maruti, CEO of the ICT Authority, highlighted the opportunities within the global digital economy, particularly for Africa’s youth. He said the summit aims to unify innovation across the continent, enabling young people to access skills, investments and markets necessary to create jobs and enterprises.
Maruti added that the 2025 edition attracted over 1,500 delegates from more than 30 countries, featuring 165 speakers and 40 sponsors, with this year’s summit expected to build on that scale. He stressed the need for stronger continental connectivity, harmonised frameworks and resilient infrastructure to unlock Africa’s full digital potential.
A key highlight of the 2026 summit will be the launch of the Connected Africa Secretariat, to be chaired by Kenya. The Secretariat is expected to enhance continuity, accountability and long-term collaboration in driving a unified and sustainable digital ecosystem across the continent.
Industry players have also underscored the importance of collaboration. Frankline Okata noted that partnerships between the public and private sectors are critical in accelerating digital transformation and delivering impactful outcomes.
Meanwhile, Adam Lane highlighted the importance of talent development, noting that Africa’s digital transformation must be driven by skilled individuals capable of innovating and managing technology. He pointed to ongoing efforts to support universities, TVET institutions and professional training programmes across the continent.
The summit will feature participation from government leaders, regulators, ambassadors, investors and technology innovators, with confirmed ministerial representation from countries including Ethiopia, Malawi, Uganda, Gabon, Guinea, Chad and Zimbabwe.
As Africa’s digital transformation continues to accelerate, the Connected Africa Summit 2026 is poised to serve as a key platform for collaboration, policy direction and innovation aimed at driving inclusive economic growth and social development across the continent.
