Kigali is preparing to become the epicenter of Africa’s digital revolution as Rwanda officially throws its weight behind the Africa Blockchain Festival (ABF) 2025. Endorsed by the Government of Rwanda through the Rwanda Convention Bureau, the festival marks a historic milestone as the first-ever event on the continent dedicated to both artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology. It is scheduled to run from November 7 to 9, 2025, at the Kigali Convention Centre.
Themed “Africa’s AI & Blockchain Renaissance: From Tech Consumers to Global Innovators,” the festival is designed not just as a gathering of experts but as a continental movement to drive Africa’s place in the global digital economy. By creating a platform for dialogue and innovation, ABF 2025 aims to shift Africa from being a consumer of technology to a bold innovator with global influence.
Over 5,000 participants are expected, including developers, venture capitalists, policymakers, blockchain ambassadors, media professionals, and creatives. The three-day program will feature keynote addresses, engaging panel discussions, startup pitch sessions, and a live hackathon, where teams will present practical blockchain solutions to pressing challenges across various sectors.
A unique dimension of ABF 2025 is its focus on the intersection of creativity and technology. Special sessions will be dedicated to African musicians, filmmakers, and designers, highlighting how blockchain and AI can support intellectual property protection, decentralized fan engagement, and AI-assisted content creation. Complementing the festival’s agenda are curated networking opportunities such as Deal Rooms, Kigali Innovation Tours, the Afro-Tech Connect Gala, and Kigali Digital Connect, all designed to foster collaboration between investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators.
Rwanda’s endorsement underscores its commitment to becoming a leader in digital transformation. With global recognition for its AI research and digital policy initiatives—supported by organizations such as the Gates Foundation, the country is well-positioned to host an event of this magnitude, reinforcing Kigali’s reputation as a hub for innovation.
Confirmed speakers include Paula Ingabire, Rwanda’s Minister of ICT; Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General of Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission; Alex Ntale, CEO of the Rwanda ICT Chamber; Michelle Chivunga, Founder of Global Policy House; Nigerian tech creator Fisayo Fosudo; Ghanaian digital voice Delppy; and South African entrepreneurs Shameera Akbar and Ayesha Bayat, co-founders of Digiyouth Africa. More prominent names are expected to be announced in the months ahead.
Beyond the sessions and speeches, ABF 2025 is envisioned as a catalyst for Africa’s digital future—a launchpad that will empower innovators, policymakers, and creatives to accelerate sustainable growth while shaping Africa into a global leader in technological innovation.
