NAIROBI, May 26 (AGCNewsNet) – GITEX, the world’s largest tech show brand, is expanding into Kenya with a new flagship event set for 2026, in a move expected to unlock a $24 billion economic opportunity driven by artificial intelligence (AI) across Africa.

Announced during the GITEX Africa 2024 conference in Marrakech, the new edition—GITEX Africa Kenya—will mark the tech expo's first foray outside of Morocco. Organised by KAOUN International, the international affiliate of the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the event is backed by the Kenyan Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy.

The expansion reflects a broader strategy to tap into Africa’s growing digital economy and youthful population, amid projections that AI alone could contribute over $1.2 trillion to the continent’s GDP by 2030.

“This historic move will catalyse a new era of technological development and investment in the region,” said Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International. “Kenya’s vibrant tech scene and government commitment to digital transformation made it the natural choice for our next chapter.”

Kenya’s President, William Ruto, has positioned the country as East Africa’s digital hub, with strategic policies aimed at expanding internet access, nurturing startups, and integrating digital services across governance and business.

“GITEX Africa Kenya will be a game changer,” said Eliud Owalo, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy. “It aligns with our digital superhighway agenda and affirms Kenya as a continental leader in innovation.”

The Nairobi edition, scheduled for the first quarter of 2026, will offer a platform for governments, startups, investors, and global tech giants to converge on issues ranging from AI, climate tech, and fintech to health tech and digital trade.

GITEX Africa’s inaugural event in Morocco launched in 2023, and its 2024 edition drew participation from 130 countries, 1,400 exhibitors, and 600 startups. Organisers hope the Kenyan leg will further consolidate Africa’s position on the global tech map.

“With a tech-savvy youth population and a surge in homegrown innovation, Africa is primed to lead in emerging technologies,” LohMirmand added. “We’re excited to bring the world to Kenya and take African innovation to the world.”

GITEX Africa Kenya is expected to generate high-impact partnerships and investments across multiple sectors while deepening regional cooperation on technology policy, digital infrastructure, and AI governance.

Further details about the venue and programming for the 2026 edition will be announced later this year.

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