Nairobi is hosting a major artificial intelligence and technology summit, AI Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya, from May 19–21, 2026, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) and Sarit Expo Centre, in what organisers describe as a major expansion of the global GITEX tech brand into East Africa.
The summit brings together more than 150 global speakers, over 500 enterprises and startups, and policymakers, investors, and technology innovators, with a focus on accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence and expanding digital economies across Africa.
Organisers said the event is designed to strengthen Africa’s position in the global technology landscape while promoting inclusive access to AI-driven growth.
“This summit is about ensuring that Africa is not left behind in the global AI transformation, but is actively shaping and benefiting from it,” an organiser said.
A key feature of the summit is North Star Kenya, a dedicated startup and scaleup showcase platform that connects African innovators with global investors and venture capital networks.
“We are creating direct pathways between African startups and global capital so that innovation can scale faster and more effectively,” a program representative said.
The event focuses on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT), fintech, agritech, digital transformation, and sustainability, reflecting growing interest in how technology can address structural challenges across the continent.
“We are seeing strong demand for practical AI solutions that solve real problems in agriculture, healthcare, and financial inclusion,” a participating tech executive said.
Kenya’s broader AI framework is also gaining attention, with projections estimating that the country’s artificial intelligence sector could contribute up to US$2.4 billion to GDP by 2030 and create more than 300,000 jobs by 2028.
“These projections show the scale of opportunity, but realising them will depend on investment in skills, infrastructure, and policy,” an economist said.
The 2026 tech calendar in Nairobi has also featured earlier events, including the Nairobi AI Forum 2026 held in February, which focused on green and scalable AI infrastructure, and the Africa Tech Summit, which showcased investor-ready startups from across the continent.
“These growing connections of events reflect Nairobi’s rapid emergence as a regional innovation hub,” a technology analyst said.
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The summit is organised by KAOUN International in partnership with the Office of the Special Envoy on Technology of the Republic of Kenya, as part of broader efforts to position Kenya as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation.
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