The GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association), which promotes the development of mobile-based technology, has announced that an international technology conference bringing together African tech companies scheduled to take place in Kigali, will introduce continental awards for innovators known as the GLOMOs Africa Awards.
In collaboration with the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, the MWC26 Kigali conference will be held at the Kigali Convention Centre from June 16 to 18, 2026.
MWC26 Kigali will bring together Africans and global stakeholders, including policymakers, investors, regulatory bodies, startups, and other key players.
The event will feature panel discussions, exhibitions by technology companies, and various networking activities.
It will also include several side events such as the Scams Summit, which will examine challenges related to artificial intelligence use; the AgriTech Summit, organized in partnership with AGRA, focusing on leveraging technology to advance agriculture in Africa.
Additionally, the Health Summit scheduled for June 17, 2026, will explore how technology can improve healthcare delivery across the continent. The GSMA Technology Summit, set for June 17–18, will address 5G implementation, cybersecurity, and more.
There will also be an Education Summit organized by the Future of Education and Work, along with a ministerial-level meeting that previously brought together 49 participants from 33 institutions and 16 government-affiliated bodies.
GSMA announced that for the first time, MWC Kigali will host the GLOMOs Africa Awards, recognizing excellence in advancing technology across Africa.
These awards will be presented in two categories:
- Digital Innovation for Africa’s Real Economy Award
- Closing the Mobile Internet Usage Gap in Africa – Innovation Award
Applications for the awards are already open, free of charge, and will close on April 30, 2026.
MWC26 Kigali will focus on four key themes, examining their challenges and opportunities for transforming Africa’s tech landscape:
- ConnectAI (exploring how AI can boost economic growth and potentially double Africa’s GDP by 2035)
- Fintech & Commerce
- Digital Africa
- Intelligent Infrastructure
Companies expected to showcase their innovations at the event include Airtel, Ericsson, Ethio Telecom, MTN, Terrapay, YAS, AethexAI, PXS, among others that will register.
