Kenya to host continental technology summit to drive AI, innovation, investment

Kenya will host the second Africa Technology Leadership Conference (ATLC) 2026 in October as the country seeks to position itself as the continent’s hub for science, technology diplomacy and innovation-driven investment.

The two-day conference, scheduled for October 22–23 at the Argyle Hotel in Nairobi, is expected to attract more than 3,500 delegates from over 30 countries, including government leaders, diplomats, investors, researchers, technology firms and innovators.

The event is being organised by the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation (SDSRI) in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, INVIGENCE Ltd and Twinspen Limited.

Speaking during the launch, Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak said the conference aims to strengthen public-private partnerships, promote commercialisation of research and attract investment into Africa's innovation ecosystem.

"Africa has reached a pivotal moment where science, research and innovation must become strategic instruments for economic transformation and global influence," he said, adding that the forum will focus on turning policy into practical outcomes through collaboration among governments, academia, industry and investors.

The conference will be held under the theme ‘From Technology Ambitions to Strategic Advantage: Leveraging Science, Research and Innovation for Diplomacy, Capital and Execution.’

Organisers said delegates will participate in policy dialogues, investment forums, technology exhibitions, specialised workshops and business networking sessions, with discussions expected to culminate in the ATLC 2026 Communique, outlining recommendations for advancing technology-led development across the continent.

INVIGENCE Ltd Chief Executive Dr. Kenneth Rotich said Africa's challenge is no longer developing digital strategies but implementing them.

He noted that the conference will bring together policymakers, financiers, researchers and technology companies to accelerate technology deployment, commercialise research and strengthen Africa's influence in global technology governance.

Twinspen Limited representative Brian Mung'ei said the forum is also expected to reinforce Nairobi's position as a leading destination for technology leadership dialogue, innovation partnerships and research collaboration.

Registration for delegates, exhibitors and strategic partners has opened, with organisers expected to announce additional speakers and programme details in the coming weeks