Africa Blockchain Festival 2026 to bring global tech leaders to Nairobi

The Africa Blockchain Festival (ABF) 2026 will be held from October 15 to 17 at the Sarit Expo Centre, bringing together stakeholders from the blockchain, artificial intelligence and digital economy sectors across Africa and beyond.

The event, themed "Capital, Code and Continuity: Building Africa's Permanent Digital Economy," is expected to attract delegates from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America.

Co-hosted with the World Token Summit, the three-day conference will provide a platform for governments, investors, technology firms, startups and regulators to discuss opportunities and challenges shaping Africa's digital future.

The programme will feature discussions on blockchain, artificial intelligence, digital finance, cybersecurity, tokenisation, stablecoins, digital identity, cross-border payments and regulatory frameworks, alongside investor forums, startup showcases, technical workshops and exhibitions.

"Our vision has always extended far beyond cryptocurrency," said Africa Blockchain Festival Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Olubunmi Fabanwo.

"Blockchain gives Africa an opportunity to build the digital foundations that future generations deserve. Across the continent, we have the chance to create trusted systems that improve financial inclusion, strengthen public services, modernise trade and unlock entirely new industries."

Fabanwo said African countries were well placed to leapfrog traditional development models by adopting technologies that support new digital industries.

"This year, we're also proud to co-host Africa Blockchain Festival alongside the World Token Summit, bringing together two platforms that share a common vision of accelerating blockchain adoption, innovation and investment across Africa and beyond," he said.

The festival comes as African economies continue expanding digital payments, financial technology services and digital identity systems, creating an enabling environment for broader adoption of blockchain and artificial intelligence.

Kenya's selection as host underscores Nairobi's growing status as one of Africa's leading technology hubs. Often referred to as the "Silicon Savannah", the city has developed a vibrant fintech ecosystem that continues to attract startups, investors and multinational technology companies targeting the African market.

Fabanwo said Kenya had demonstrated how innovation flourishes through a combination of talent, entrepreneurship and supportive ecosystems.

"Today, the country is helping shape Africa's leadership in artificial intelligence, blockchain and digital finance. There is no better place to convene the conversations that will define Africa's digital future," he said.

World Token Summit Founder Ahmed Refaie said the partnership would strengthen collaboration between African innovators and global technology players.

"Bringing Africa Blockchain Festival and the World Token Summit together in Nairobi creates a unique opportunity to connect governments, innovators, investors and industry leaders from around the world," said Refaie.

"Collaboration is what drives innovation, and Africa has an opportunity not only to participate in the next wave of technological transformation but to help shape it."

Organisers expect the festival to attract technology founders, venture capital firms, financial institutions, developers, government officials, regulators and academic institutions. They say the event will also provide African startups with opportunities to showcase innovations, connect with international investors and forge strategic partnerships aimed at accelerating the continent's digital transformation.