Kenya is injecting significant resources into vital engines of economic progress and national strength—ranging from digital systems and AI plants to massive data hubs and eco-friendly manufacturing. This strategic push has positioned the nation for a surge in global interest, especially after the launch of Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya.
The landmark event is set to take place in Nairobi from May 19–21, 2026. It is hosted by KAOUN International, the entity behind GITEX globally, working alongside the Office of the Special Envoy on Technology of the Republic of Kenya and dx⁵, a leading tech accelerator in Africa.
The gathering promises to underscore Kenya’s rising influence in the realm of artificial intelligence and digital transformation within the region and around the world. Economists forecast that the AI sector alone will add US$2.4 billion to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product by 2030 and create in excess of 300,000 new positions by 2028. The event is expected to trigger fresh partnerships and capital inflows while ensuring that breakthrough technologies are introduced responsibly and broadly.
GITEX is renowned for staging some of the continent’s most impactful cross-sector assemblies, unlocking pathways to fresh markets, funding, skilled personnel, networking, and profitable ventures. Having spanned 45 years, the brand’s presence now extends across eight nations and five different regions worldwide, such as Germany, the UAE, Nigeria, and Singapore.
With its eagerly anticipated addition to the GITEX circuit, Kenya is destined to make a significant mark as host of East Africa’s largest technology and startup expo. The assembly will unite leaders from government, technology sectors, academic institutions, business, civil society, creative industries, and aid organizations.
Hon. William Kabogo Gitau, the cabinet secretary for information, communications and the digital economy, commented: “Welcoming Ai Everything Kenya is both an acknowledgment of how far we have come and a rallying cry going forward. Kenya is establishing itself as a central hub for Africa’s digital evolution—where AI is more than just a catalyst for new ideas; it is a driver of economic inclusion, public service overhauls, and sustainable growth.” He pointed out that AI, as outlined in the recently revealed Kenyan AI Strategy, is a linchpin of the wider national agenda, in line with the Kenya National Digital Master Plan 2022–2032 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). “We are proud to spearhead this period in history which put Africa on the global AI stage—not just as users of technology, but as innovators and partners crafting a future based on our own principles and goals.”
Korir Singoei, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, noted that staging AI Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya during the same calendar year as the 2026 Global Data Festival highlights the country’s drive to solidify Nairobi’s reputation as the world’s premier center for international digital partnerships and innovation.
“This momentum is grounded in Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2025. For the first time, this document raised ‘technology diplomacy’ to the status of a core national pillar, creating a blueprint for international cooperation on breakthrough technologies,” he explained. “It illustrates our resolve to expand our joint efforts in data governance, AI policy, and digital infrastructure—and integrate tech thinking into peacekeeping, trade discussions, and developmental alliances. By hosting a worldwide audience in Nairobi, we are showing that African diplomatic efforts are evolving and well-prepared to collaborate on solving our biggest obstacles.”
Amb. Philip Thigo, Special Envoy on Technology, also stressed the national importance of this milestone:“Staging Ai Everything Kenya is far more than symbolism; it confirms our standing as a credible host for global discussions on tomorrow’s technology.”
Amb. Thigo additionally praised the forward-thinking vision of H.E. President William Ruto for promoting green industry and inclusive progress through new ideas. “This event is proof of our focus on using emerging tech like AI to tackle Africa’s specific issues while influencing worldwide standards that are equitable, lasting, and true to our developmental ambitions. It is also a chance to demonstrate Africa’s creative spirit—our ability not merely to use technology, but to design, engineer, and export groundbreaking solutions that mirror our own cultures and drive.”
Harry Hare, Chairman and Co-founder of dx⁵, spoke on the event’s shared vision: “Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya is about much more than just a conference; it is a spark for Africa’s digital future,” he stated. “By uniting global thinkers, decision-makers, and local expertise, we are constructing a stage that not only shines a light on Kenya’s technological strides but also encourages teamwork and investment throughout the continent. It is a bold statement of confidence in Kenya’s top-tier capabilities as a venue for global events—boasting the infrastructure, experience, and energy to accommodate the world’s tech and innovation elite.”
Marking the alliance, Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC & CEO of KAOUN International, shared: “Kenya has already carved out a distinctive role in Africa’s digital map—developing and empowering technology that is reshaping day-to-day life. The debut of Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya will be a pivotal moment for the nation’s digital path and the broader AI and digital economies of East Africa. This showcase will draw unique international attention to Kenya’s progressive laws, local talent, developing infrastructure, and vast ambitions, reinforcing its role as a major player in both regional and global technology landscapes. Ultimately, this will forge new paths for cooperation between the public and private sectors, elevating the dynamic and resilient tech ecosystem in the region.”
As digitalization is a key pillar of Kenya’s economic development and job creation under frameworks like Kenya Vision 2030 and the Kenya National Digital Master Plan 2022-2032, Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya maximizes this promise with a world-class agenda designed to speed up technological integration across vital industries in the emerging AI and digital sectors.
Split into a one-day summit and a two-day exhibition, the initiative will center on six core themes that are crucial to Kenya’s technological future: Artificial Intelligence, agriculture technology, cloud computing, cyber safety, Internet of Things, and sustainability.
Involving a global mix of governments, companies, specialists, investors, small businesses, startups, and digital marketing bodies, and endorsed by Gulfood—the world’s largest food tradeshow—this gathering is set to reshape cross-industry teamwork, encourage novel public-private initiatives, attract funding, expand technological solutions, and ultimately further Kenya’s digital transformation goals.
Regarding further event details and announcements, stay tuned for updates. To learn more about AI EVERYTHING KENYA x GITEX KENYA, visit aieverythingkenya.com.
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