The Africa Internet Summit 2026 (AIS’26) has officially opened in Nairobi, bringing together government officials, regulators, technology leaders, technical experts, academia, civil society organisations and members of Africa’s Internet community to discuss the future of the continent’s digital ecosystem.
Kenya is hosting the summit as the fourth African country to hold the event after South Africa in 2023, Mauritius in 2024 and Ghana in 2025.
The summit provides a platform for dialogue, collaboration and knowledge sharing on strengthening Internet infrastructure, expanding connectivity and building inclusive digital economies.
Kenya highlights role of digital infrastructure
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Mary Kerema, Secretary for ICT, Digital Economy and Emerging Technologies, said digital infrastructure remains critical to Africa’s economic growth, innovation, education and public service delivery.
“The Internet is a critical enabler of economic growth, innovation, education, and public service delivery. AIS 2026 is an opportunity for Africa to strengthen its digital infrastructure and ensure that every citizen can participate meaningfully in the digital economy,” said Kerema.
She reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to supporting policies that promote a secure, inclusive and resilient digital ecosystem.
AFRINIC enters new phase of renewal
Prof. Nii Quaynor, Convener of the African Network Operators Group (AfNOG), highlighted the summit’s importance in strengthening technical cooperation and Internet development across Africa.
He noted that since its establishment in 2012, AIS has remained a key platform for policy discussions and collaboration among stakeholders.
Prof. Quaynor also welcomed the restoration of AFRINIC, Africa’s Regional Internet Registry, urging stakeholders to work together to maintain its stability, credibility and community-driven governance.
AFRINIC Board Chairman Prof. Emmanuel Adewale Adedokun said the organisation is focused on rebuilding trust, strengthening transparency and ensuring community participation in Internet policy development.
“AFRINIC is moving forward with renewed purpose. Our focus is on restoring stability, strengthening trust, and reinforcing the community-driven processes that underpin Africa’s Internet development,” he said.
Kenya showcases digital leadership
Telecommunications Service Providers Association of Kenya (TESPOK) Chairman James Turuthi said Kenya continues to play a leading role in Internet development through initiatives such as the Kenya Internet Exchange Point (KIXP), capacity-building programmes and collaboration between government and industry.
He noted that while Africa has made progress in expanding Internet access, challenges including affordability, digital skills gaps, cybersecurity threats and infrastructure development remain.
Call for stronger continental cooperation
Communications Authority of Kenya Director General David Mugonyi called for increased collaboration among governments, regulators, businesses, academia and civil society to address Africa’s digital challenges.
“Africa’s Internet future demands strong collaboration among governments, regulators, industry, academia, and civil society. When we work together, innovation and resilience follow,” said Mugonyi.
He emphasised that continued partnerships will be essential in closing connectivity gaps, strengthening cybersecurity and expanding digital opportunities.
Summit focuses on Africa’s digital resilience
AIS’26 comes at a time of rapid technological change, growing demand for secure digital infrastructure and increasing global competition in the technology sector.
Participants will discuss strategies to enhance Africa’s digital sovereignty, improve connectivity, encourage innovation and develop inclusive digital economies.
The week-long summit will feature technical workshops, policy discussions, operational forums, training sessions, networking engagements and AFRINIC’s Public Policy Meeting.
The gathering reaffirms Africa’s commitment to building stronger Internet infrastructure, improving digital resilience and ensuring the continent plays a leading role in shaping the future of the global Internet.