The Africa Soft Power Summit is set to hold in Nairobi, Kenya, from May 20 to 23, 2026, bringing together stakeholders from across business, policy, technology, media and the creative industries.

Organisers say the event will continue to serve as a platform for cross-sector engagement, with the wider programme extending to May 24 through curated cultural and destination experiences across Nairobi. Nigerian participants are expected to feature prominently, reflecting the country’s growing involvement in the summit over previous editions.

This year’s theme focuses on the alignment of finance, creativity and human capital as a driver of economic growth. The approach reflects a broader view that development outcomes are shaped by how different sectors interact, rather than by isolated interventions.

Founder and Creative Director of the Africa Soft Power Group, Dr Nkiru Balonwu, said the summit is intended to provide a platform for engagement at a time when global economic and technological shifts are creating new challenges and opportunities.

She noted that Africa’s creative and innovation sectors are playing an increasingly important role in shaping future growth, adding that the summit aims to bring together stakeholders to explore practical pathways for development.

“The world is looking for fresh solutions, credible leadership and new pathways for growth. Africa’s creative and innovation sectors have already shown that they are not peripheral to that future. They are central to it. ” said Balonwu. “This summit is a fitting setting for that conversation because it reflects so much of the ambition, energy and connectivity the continent is building”.

The event will feature three main programme tracks. The Remarkable African Women’s Leadership Conference will open the summit, focusing on leadership and governance. This will be followed by sessions on creative and innovative industries, examining the commercial potential of Africa’s cultural sectors.

The programme will conclude with a gala and awards event highlighting contributions across art, fashion, film, media and technology.

Previous editions have attracted participants from a range of global and African organisations, including Netflix, Meta, Google and African Export-Import Bank, alongside policymakers, entrepreneurs and cultural figures.

Previous editions have drawn participants from both public and private sectors, including multinational companies and African institutions. These have included organisations such as Netflix, Meta, Google, MTN, NFL, Safaricom, Amazon Studios, Afreximbank, IFC, Bank of Industry, AfCFTA, NGX Group and the National Basketball Association, alongside financial and telecommunications firms operating across the continent, as well as former heads of state.

For Nigerian stakeholders, the summit is expected to provide an opportunity to engage with counterparts from other African markets, particularly in areas related to investment, policy development and brand building.

Registration for the 2026 edition is currently open, with organisers indicating that participation will include both individual delegates and institutional representatives. For registration, enquiries, and to visit the official website of the Africa Soft Power Group, click here.

The Nairobi gathering comes amid growing interest in Africa’s creative and technology sectors, with platforms such as the Africa Soft Power Summit increasingly serving as meeting points for ideas, partnerships and policy discussions across the continent.