The African tech landscape is preparing for a landmark moment as the Africa Blockchain Festival (ABF) 2025 comes to Kigali, Rwanda, from November 7 to 9, 2025. Billed as the continent’s first major festival merging artificial intelligence (AI innovation in Africa) and blockchain startups and innovation, the event is designed to shift Africa’s role in global technology from consumer to innovator.
Africa’s Tech Future
Hosted at the Kigali Convention Centre, the festival carries the theme: “Africa’s AI innovation in Africa & Blockchain Renaissance: From Tech Consumers to Global Innovators.” With Rwanda championing digital transformation, the government’s endorsement of ABF underscores its vision of positioning the country as a leading African hub for innovation and fintech development.
High-Profile Speakers and Global Voices
The festival will feature a diverse lineup of policymakers, innovators, and entrepreneurs across Africa and beyond. Confirmed speakers include:
- Paula Ingabire – Rwanda’s Minister of ICT
- Dr. Emomotimi Agama – Director General, Nigeria’s SEC
- Alex Ntale – CEO of Rwanda ICT Chamber
- Michelle Chivunga – Founder of Global Policy House
- Fisayo Fosudo – Nigerian tech creator
- Delppy – Ghanaian digital voice
- Shameera Akbar & Ayesha Bayat – Co-founders of DigiYouth Africa, South Africa
Africa Blockchain Festival 2025
- Conference & Exhibition: Over 5,000 developers, investors, policymakers, and innovators will gather for panels, demos, and product showcases.
- Startup Pitch Competitions: Emerging African blockchain startups and innovation and AI innovation in Africa startups will compete for visibility and funding.
- Hackathons & Workshops: Developers and students will engage in hands-on sessions exploring practical applications of AI innovation in Africa and blockchain startups and innovation.
- Creative Industry Track: Dedicated panels on how blockchain startups and innovation can revolutionize music, film, art, and intellectual property.
- Networking & Cultural Events: Deal rooms, VIP lounges, innovation tours, and a closing gala to connect innovators across borders.
RwandAir is partnering with the festival to offer flight discounts of 20% on business class and 15% on economy for attendees across Africa.
The Africa Blockchain Festival 2025 (Kigali blockchain startups and innovation event) represents more than a gathering, it is a defining moment for Africa’s digital economy. By merging blockchain startups and innovation and AI innovation in Africa discussions under one roof, it sets the stage for policies, partnerships, and innovations that could shape the continent’s future in fintech, governance, and creative industries.