By Nemuel Ondima
AfriLabs, Africa’s largest network of technology and innovation hubs, marked a major milestone today as it opened its 10th Annual Gathering (AAG 2025) at the United Nations Office in Nairobi.
Running from October 13–15, the event brings together 2,000 innovators, policymakers, investors, and ecosystem leaders from over 50 countries under the theme “Africa’s Innovation Future: Policy, Partnerships & Progress.”
A Decade of Impact
Over the past ten years, AfriLabs has grown from a small hub network into a continental powerhouse, connecting 500 innovation hubs across 53 countries.
Executive Director Anna Ekeledo called the milestone “a celebration of Africa’s creativity, resilience, and global relevance.”
“This Gathering is about shaping policies and partnerships that will drive Africa’s innovation leadership in the next decade,” she said.
Timbuktoo Partnership Takes Center Stage
A key highlight is the AfriLabs–UNDP Timbuktoo Partnership, a ten-year initiative to mobilize over US$1 billion in catalytic capital for African startups.
Natalie Jabangwe, CEO of the Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation, described it as “a model for aligning capital, creativity, and community.”
Policy and Progress in Focus
The event features a Ministerial Roundtable led by Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, former Vice President of Nigeria, and Ahunna Eziakonwa, UNDP’s Regional Director for Africa.
Discussions focus on policies that empower startups, attract investment, and ensure inclusive innovation across the continent.
Nairobi: Africa’s Silicon Savannah
Hosting the summit in Nairobi, Africa’s “Silicon Savannah,” underscores Kenya’s growing role as a regional tech hub.
Key partners include Afrexim Bank, Villgro Africa, Konza Technopolis, and UNDP, all working to strengthen Africa’s digital and innovation ecosystems.
The Road Ahead
As AfriLabs enters its second decade, it aims to deepen policy advocacy, strengthen investment networks, and ensure inclusive innovation that empowers women, youth, and marginalized communities.
With a decade of success behind it, AfriLabs stands as proof that Africa’s greatest resource is its innovation powered by people, passion, and progress.
