Rwanda Endorses First-Ever Africa Blockchain Festival 2025 in Kigali

Kigali is preparing to welcome the world of innovation as Rwanda officially endorses the Africa Blockchain Festival (ABF) 2025, a pioneering event that marks the continent’s first AI and Blockchain Festival.

Backed by the Government of Rwanda through the Rwanda Convention Bureau, the festival will take place from November 7 to 9, 2025, at the Kigali Convention Centre, positioning the country at the heart of Africa’s digital transformation.

Under the theme “Africa’s AI and Blockchain Renaissance: From Tech Consumers to Global Innovators,” ABF 2025 seeks to go beyond the traditional conference model.

It is designed as a continental movement that will bring together leading minds in technology, government, finance, and the creative industries to explore how Africa can take a leadership role in shaping the future of digital economies.

The three-day festival is expected to draw more than 5,000 participants, including developers, venture capitalists, policymakers, content creators, media professionals, and blockchain ambassadors.

The programme will feature keynote speeches, interactive panel discussions, startup pitch sessions, and a live hackathon showcasing practical blockchain solutions.

Recognizing the growing overlap between creativity and technology, ABF 2025 will also host specialized sessions for African creators.

These will highlight opportunities for musicians, filmmakers, and designers to leverage blockchain for intellectual property protection, decentralized fan engagement, and AI-powered content creation.

Networking experiences such as Deal Rooms, Kigali Innovation Tours, the Afro-Tech Connect Gala, and Kigali Digital Connect will further foster collaboration between investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators.

Rwanda’s endorsement reflects its ambition to remain at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation.

With strong global backing, including support from the Gates Foundation, the country has earned recognition as an emerging hub for AI research and digital policy, making Kigali a fitting location for this landmark event.

Among the confirmed speakers are Paula Ingabire, Rwanda’s Minister of ICT; Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General of Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission; Alex Ntale, CEO of the Rwanda ICT Chamber; Michelle Chivunga, Founder of Global Policy House; Nigerian tech creator Fisayo Fosudo; Ghanaian digital voice Delppy; and South African entrepreneurs Shameera Akbar and Ayesha Bayat, co-founders of Digiyouth Africa. More high-profile names will be unveiled in the coming months.

More than just an industry gathering, ABF 2025 is envisioned as a catalyst for Africa’s digital future, empowering innovators and policymakers to accelerate sustainable growth while transforming Africa from a consumer of technology into a global innovator and leader.