Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Focuses on telecommunications infrastructure modernization, 5G deployment, fiber expansion, and cloud adoption across Africa
- Addresses cybersecurity at scale, digital trust, and secure connectivity as foundational requirements for digital transformation
- Targets telecom CEOs, CISOs, CTOs, regulators, and senior executives from banking, fintech, cloud, and government sectors
- Explores fintech and telecom convergence, digital identity platforms, and enterprise modernization strategies
- Features keynotes, panels, B2B matchmaking, and solution showcases at NH Johannesburg Sandton, South Africa
About the Event
Connected Africa 2026 convenes global regulators, telecommunications operators, infrastructure providers, and digital technology specialists to address the continent’s transition toward platform-based digital services and next-generation connectivity. The in-person summit examines how high-capacity networks, data centers, cybersecurity frameworks, and cloud orchestration serve as foundational elements for national competitiveness and economic resilience across African markets.
The event format combines keynote presentations, panel discussions, structured B2B meetings, and solution showcases designed for executive-level engagement. Accenture serves as lead sponsor, with Tether as gold sponsor. Additional partners include Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, Zamtel, and Bayobab Africa, alongside fintech, cloud, and cybersecurity companies.
Cybersecurity and Digital Trust
As African telecommunications networks expand and digitize, cybersecurity emerges as a critical concern for operators, enterprises, and governments. The summit addresses cybersecurity at scale, examining how organizations can establish digital trust while deploying secure, real-time connectivity across sectors. Sessions explore the security implications of 5G rollouts, cloud and edge computing adoption, IoT deployments, and smart city initiatives.
Digital identity platforms feature prominently in discussions, reflecting the intersection of security, financial inclusion, and regulatory compliance. For cybersecurity professionals, the event provides context on how security requirements evolve as traditional network providers transition to platform-based digital service models.
Infrastructure and Technology Focus
Technical discussions span 5G adoption strategies, fiber network expansion, broadband policy development, and cloud and edge computing architectures. The summit examines how these technologies converge with fintech services, enabling financial inclusion through telecom and banking sector collaboration. IoT applications and smart city deployments represent additional areas where infrastructure investment intersects with security and operational requirements.
Who Should Attend
The summit targets senior decision-makers responsible for digital transformation, infrastructure investment, and security strategy. Relevant roles include CEOs, CIOs, CISOs, CTOs, Chief Digital Officers, Heads of Strategy, and General Managers from telecommunications operators, banking institutions, fintech companies, cloud providers, government agencies, and technology vendors operating in or entering African markets.