Africa Internet Summit opens in Nairobi

By Lawrence Ongaro

The Africa Internet Summit 2026 (AIS’26) officially kicked off in Nairobi on Monday, June 22, 2026, bringing together key players in Africa’s digital landscape to discuss the future of internet development, connectivity, and technological innovation across the continent.

The summit, Africa’s leading multistakeholder internet and ICT forum, has attracted government officials, regulators, industry leaders, technical experts, civil society groups, academics, and members of the internet community from across Africa. Kenya becomes the fourth country to host the event after South Africa, Mauritius, and Ghana.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, ICT, Digital Economy and Emerging Technologies Secretary Mary Kerema underscored the critical role of the internet in driving economic growth, innovation, education, and public service delivery.

She said the summit provides Africa with an opportunity to strengthen digital infrastructure and ensure that all citizens can participate meaningfully in the digital economy. Kerema also welcomed delegates and reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to promoting collaboration, innovation, and policies that support a secure, inclusive, and resilient digital ecosystem.

AFRINIC restoration highlighted

A major focus of the summit was the future of Africa’s internet governance and infrastructure.

Prof. Nii Quaynor, Convener of the African Network Operators Group (AfNOG), described the summit as a key platform for technical cooperation, policy dialogue, and internet development since its establishment in 2012.

He praised stakeholders across the continent for their role in restoring the African Network Information Centre (AFRINIC), Africa’s Regional Internet Registry.

According to Prof. Quaynor, the restoration presents an opportunity for the internet community to work together to maintain AFRINIC’s stability, credibility, and community-driven governance.

AFRINIC Board Chairman Prof. Emmanuel Adewale Adedokun echoed the sentiments, saying the organisation is entering a new phase focused on rebuilding trust, strengthening stability, and reinforcing transparent governance structures. He emphasised the importance of active community participation in shaping policies that will guide Africa’s internet future.

Collaboration key to closing digital gaps

Industry leaders and regulators called for stronger partnerships to address persistent digital challenges across the continent.

TESPOK Chairman James Turuthi highlighted Kenya’s leadership in internet development through initiatives such as the Kenya Internet Exchange Point (KIXP) and collaborative efforts between government and industry. However, he noted that affordability, digital skills, cybersecurity, and infrastructure gaps continue to hinder progress.

Communications Authority of Kenya Director General David Mugonyi urged governments, regulators, academia, civil society, and the private sector to work together in tackling Africa’s digital challenges.

The summit comes at a time of rapid technological change, growing geopolitical competition, and increasing demand for secure digital infrastructure. Throughout the week, delegates will participate in technical workshops, policy discussions, training sessions, networking forums, and AFRINIC’s Public Policy Meeting.

Organisers say the gathering reaffirms Africa’s shared commitment to strengthening internet infrastructure, expanding connectivity, enhancing digital resilience, and ensuring the continent plays a leading role in shaping the future of the global internet.