Nairobi Set to Host Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya from 19–21 May 2026
In a landmark move set to redefine East Africa’s tech landscape, GITEX—the world’s most influential technology event brand—has announced its expansion into Kenya. The inaugural Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya will take place in Nairobi from May 19–21, 2026, making it the largest AI and innovation ecosystem event in the region.
Kenya’s Digital Vision Attracts Global Spotlight
Backed by significant national investments in digital infrastructure, AI factories, hyperscale data centres, and green industrialisation, Kenya is strategically positioning itself as a hub of digital transformation. The launch of GITEX Kenya marks a powerful endorsement of these efforts.
Global Collaboration: A Public-Private Partnership for Change
Organised by KAOUN International, the global events arm of GITEX, in collaboration with the Office of the Special Envoy on Technology of the Republic of Kenya and dx⁵, Africa’s premier tech enabler, the event reflects a collaborative vision aimed at shaping Africa’s digital destiny.
AI to Add $2.4 Billion to Kenya’s GDP by 2030
With the AI sector alone projected to contribute $2.4 billion to Kenya’s GDP by 2030 and create over 300,000 jobs by 2028, Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya will spotlight Kenya’s growing digital and AI leadership, catalyzing new partnerships, investments, and policy advancements.
GITEX: A Global Gateway to New Markets and Innovation
With a 45-year legacy and editions across eight countries—including UAE, Germany, Morocco, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam—GITEX is synonymous with innovation, investment, and global scale. Kenya’s inclusion solidifies its entry into a prestigious global network.
A Convergence of Africa’s Top Tech Voices
GITEX Kenya will unite a diverse coalition of stakeholders, including government leaders, tech innovators, startups, academics, creatives, investors, and civil society. This inclusive approach aims to build an innovation ecosystem that accelerates the responsible use of frontier technologies.
Kenyan Government: AI Is a Cornerstone of Economic Transformation
Hon. William Kabogo Gitau, Cabinet Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, hailed the announcement, stating:
“Hosting Ai Everything Kenya is both a recognition of our achievements and a call to action. AI is central to our national strategy and a key pillar of inclusive economic growth and service reform.”
He highlighted that Kenya’s AI ambitions align with the Kenya National Digital Master Plan 2022–2032 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Nairobi to Become a Global Digital Diplomacy Hub
Dr. Korir Singoei, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, emphasized the strategic significance of hosting GITEX Kenya alongside the Global Data Festival 2026, underlining Nairobi’s emerging role as a global hub for multilateral digital cooperation.
He noted that this ambition is institutionalized through Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2025, which formally integrates technology diplomacy into Kenya’s international relations strategy.
Kenya as a Trusted Global Tech Convenor
Amb. Philip Thigo, Kenya’s Special Envoy on Technology, described the event as a landmark moment that affirms Kenya’s position as a convenor of global tech dialogue. He praised President William Ruto’s leadership in advancing green industrialisation and equitable innovation through tech.
“We aim not just to adopt, but to design and export technology that reflects Africa’s values and realities.”
dx⁵: Platform for Cross-Continental Collaboration
Harry Hare, Chairman and Co-founder of dx⁵, underlined the event’s role as a catalyst for digital transformation across Africa.
“This is more than a show—it’s a dynamic platform that fosters collaboration, drives investment, and elevates Kenya as a top-tier MICE destination.”
GITEX Kenya: A Strategic Milestone in Africa’s Digital Rise
Trixie LohMirmand, EVP of DWTC and CEO of KAOUN International, praised Kenya’s digital trajectory:
“Kenya is already a digital powerhouse. GITEX Kenya will amplify its leadership and spotlight its policy progress, infrastructure, and innovation, opening new pathways for regional and global collaboration.”
A Three-Day Mega Event with Focus on Six Future-Defining Sectors
Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya will feature a global summit on Day 1, followed by a two-day exhibition. The event will explore six key pillars of Kenya’s digital economy:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Agritech
- Cloud Computing
- Cybersecurity
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Sustainability
Kenya to Inspire the Future of Cross-Sector Innovation
With support from Gulfood, the world’s largest food exhibition, and the participation of governments, enterprises, startups, and development partners, the event will inspire new cross-sector initiatives, attract FDI, and drive regional tech acceleration.
More details and updates will be announced soon. For further information, visit www.gitex.com.
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