Africa‘s struggle to turn its vast economic potential into sustainable wealth and globally competitive industries will come under the spotlight in Kigali in October, as policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs and business leaders gather for the 2026 Innovate Africa Conference.

The two-day event, scheduled for October 12 and 13 at the Kigali Convention Centre, is expected to focus on how African countries can move beyond dependence on declining sources of finance and build economies capable of competing at global scale.

The conference comes at a critical period for the continent, with governments under pressure to create jobs for a rapidly growing youthful population, strengthen food security, expand access to energy and harness emerging technologies.

Organisers said discussions will centre on four areas with significant implications for Africa’s economic future — the creative economy, agriculture and food systems, technology and energy transition.
The technology sessions are expected to examine the growing influence of artificial intelligence, fintech and digital infrastructure, while agriculture discussions will focus on improving productivity, food processing and regional supply chains.

Energy is also expected to feature prominently, particularly the challenge of providing reliable and affordable power to support industrialisation and economic growth.

The creative economy, meanwhile, will be examined beyond entertainment, with attention on intellectual property, investment and the growing role of Africa’s cultural and digital industries in generating jobs and foreign exchange.
The meeting will bring together government representatives, ministers, investors, development finance institutions, corporate executives, startup founders, researchers and youth leaders.

According to the organisers, the conference will build on the 2025 Innovate Africa gathering held at the ECOWAS headquarters in Abuja, extending the platform from Nigeria to Rwanda.

But beyond the high-level meetings and investment discussions, the central question confronting participants will be whether Africa can convert its demographic advantage, natural resources, expanding digital economy and the opportunities created by the African Continental Free Trade Area into tangible improvements in the lives of its people.

Founder of Innovate Africa Corporation, Uloma Onyebuchi, said the Kigali gathering would provide a platform for leaders to develop practical partnerships and solutions capable of strengthening African economies.

The conference will also place Kigali’s growing role as a regional centre for business, innovation and international conferences in the spotlight.

Further details on speakers and the programme are expected to be released ahead of the October gathering.