GITEX, one of the world’s most prominent technology exhibition brands, has announced its first-ever expansion into Kenya with a new AI-focused event scheduled for May 19–21, 2026. Titled “Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya,” the event will take place in Nairobi and is set to become East Africa’s largest gathering for tech and startups. This move marks a strategic step in GITEX’s broader mission to engage with emerging markets driving digital transformation.
A New Chapter in GITEX’s Global Footprint
The Kenyan edition of GITEX reflects the continued globalisation of the 45-year-old tech show brand, which now operates in eight countries across five major regions. Beyond its flagship event in the UAE, GITEX currently hosts events in Germany, Kazakhstan, Morocco, Nigeria, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. With the addition of Kenya, GITEX further cements its presence on the African continent, building on its established operations in Nigeria and Morocco.
Strategic Partnerships Fuel Local Impact
Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya is being organised by KAOUN International, the global event arm behind GITEX, in collaboration with the Office of the Special Envoy on Technology of the Republic of Kenya and pan-African technology firm dx⁵. The event is designed to support Kenya’s ambition to become a digital innovation hub by bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders. These include policymakers, academics, entrepreneurs, civil society actors, and international development organisations.
Focus Areas Reflect Kenya’s Digital Priorities
The three-day event will comprise a one-day global summit followed by a two-day technology exhibition, covering six high-priority themes. These include artificial intelligence, agriculture technology, cloud computing, cybersecurity, the Internet of Things (IoT), and sustainability—areas seen as central to Kenya’s evolving digital economy. The format aims to foster dialogue, knowledge sharing, and practical demonstrations that highlight the country's growing tech capabilities.
Driving Investment and Cross-Sector Collaboration
Organisers expect the event to serve as a catalyst for partnerships that drive investment and accelerate technology deployment across sectors. By convening representatives from governments, multinationals, SMEs, startups, and innovation agencies, the event aims to spark new public-private initiatives and scale up homegrown technologies. Notably, Gulfood—the world’s largest food and beverage exhibition—will support the event, underscoring the importance of cross-sectoral engagement.
Leadership Vision and Regional Significance
According to Harry Hare, chairman and co-founder of dx⁵, Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya is designed to be more than a technology exhibition. He emphasized that the event aims to act as a launchpad for Africa’s broader digital transformation by encouraging collaboration between local and international players. Hare also noted that the event reflects growing confidence in Kenya’s status as a Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination, backed by strong infrastructure and talent.
Positioning Kenya as a Digital Powerhouse
The arrival of GITEX in Nairobi sends a clear signal about Kenya’s growing prominence as a regional innovation leader. With a rapidly expanding tech ecosystem, rising investment in digital infrastructure, and a youthful, tech-savvy population, Kenya is increasingly seen as a gateway to East Africa’s digital future. The event is expected to spotlight the country's advancements and attract further global attention and investment.
Ai Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya represents a significant milestone not only for Kenya but also for the wider African tech landscape. By aligning global expertise with local ambition, the event aims to elevate Kenya’s digital transformation agenda and offer a platform for sustainable, tech-driven growth. As preparations for the 2026 edition begin, all eyes will be on Nairobi as it gears up to host one of the continent’s most anticipated technology events.