The African Union Innovation Festival 2026, the African Union’s flagship youth innovation and digital transformation convening, will take place on 29–30 September 2026 at the African Union Commission (AUC) Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Theme
Vibrant Youth Ecosystems for AI and Digital Sovereignty
About the Call
The African Union is inviting innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers, development partners, youth leaders, and ecosystem builders to submit proposals for engaging sessions that will shape the programme for the African Union Innovation Festival 2026.
This is an opportunity to contribute ideas, share expertise, and facilitate meaningful discussions on Africa’s digital future.
Session Formats
Applicants may propose sessions in a variety of formats, including:
- Panel Discussions
- Fireside Chats
- Lightning Talks
- Interactive Workshops
- Masterclasses
- Innovation Showcases
- Startup Pitch Sessions
- Design Sprints
- Birds of a Feather Discussions
- Other innovative and interactive session formats
Session Tracks
Proposals are invited under the following thematic areas:
- Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)
- AI Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Digital Infrastructure and Trust
- Data Governance and Responsible AI
- Youth Skills and Future Jobs
- Gender and Inclusive Innovation
- Research, Indigenous Knowledge and Emerging Technologies
- Youth Leadership
- Recognition and Innovation Showcase
- Youth Participation
- Digital Rights and the Future African Youth Charter