ICT Principal Secretary Rallies Partners Ahead of Connected Africa Summit 2026

The Principal Secretary for ICT and The Digital Economy, Eng. John Tanui, CBS, on Friday called on partners and sponsors to rally behind the upcoming Connected Africa Summit (CAS) 2026, describing it as a defining moment for the continent’s digital transformation journey.

Speaking during a partners’ breakfast meeting ahead of the summit, Eng. Tanui expressed gratitude to sponsors and stakeholders for their continued support, saying their contributions have been instrumental in driving Africa’s digital agenda forward.

The Connected Africa Summit 2026 will be held at The Edge Convention Centre in April 2026 and is expected to convene policymakers, technology leaders, innovators, and investors from across the continent and beyond.

“This summit is our opportunity to show the world how Africa can unite its innovation to build a truly inclusive digital market,” he said. “Every sponsorship, every partnership, every contribution has brought us closer to a future where technology empowers all Africans whether in cities or villages, whether young entrepreneurs or established businesses.”

This year’s theme, “Uniting Africa’s Innovation for an Inclusive Digital Market,” underscores the need to place people at the heart of digital transformation efforts. According to the Principal Secretary, the focus extends beyond infrastructure and platforms to job creation, improved governance, and expanded business opportunities.

“Africa’s digital transformation is not about technology alone it is about people,” he emphasized. “It is about creating jobs for our youth, strengthening governance, and opening doors for businesses across the continent.”

Eng. Tanui noted that previous frameworks, including the Nairobi and Diani Declarations, laid a strong foundation for continental collaboration. CAS 2026, he said, will now shift the emphasis to implementation. “This is about turning ideas into solutions, and solutions into opportunities,” he stated. “Together, we can bridge the digital divide, foster innovation, and ensure that Africa’s Digital Economy is inclusive, resilient, and globally competitive.”

He further urged partners to view their participation not merely as event sponsorship but as a long-term investment in Africa’s digital future.
“By standing with us, you are not just supporting a summit; you are helping to shape Africa’s digital future. You are co-creators of a transformation that will reach every community and every citizen,” he said.

The Connected Africa Summit has grown into a key platform for advancing policy dialogue, regional cooperation, and investment in digital infrastructure and services. Organizers expect the CAS 2026 to mark a significant milestone in aligning innovation efforts across the continent.