Africa’s Digital Creators Gather to Shape Industry’s Future

Africa’s creator economy is rapidly evolving from a collection of individual success stories into a powerful industry capable of driving jobs, innovation, and economic growth.

This transformation will take centre stage in July when the Digital Creator Africa Summit (DCAS) 2026 convenes in Lusaka, Zambia, bringing together some of the continent’s most influential creators, industry leaders, investors, and policymakers.

Held under the theme: “Small Screen, Big Economy,” the summit reflects a growing recognition that digital content creation is no longer a side hustle for a few talented individuals.

Instead, it has become a major contributor to Africa’s creative economy, generating opportunities in entertainment, marketing, technology, education, and commerce.

The event forms part of the Africa Creative Market (ACM), which has received formal support from the Zambian Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts.

This endorsement underscores the increasing importance governments are placing on the creative sector as a driver of economic development and youth empowerment.

Taking place at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, the summit is expected to attract about 1,000 participants from across the continent and the diaspora.

Creators, brands, media executives, government officials, and development partners will gather to explore ways of expanding Africa’s digital influence and strengthening the infrastructure needed to support creative businesses.

The summit arrives at a time when African creators are attracting global audiences and reshaping narratives about the continent.

Through platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, podcasts, and streaming services, creators are building communities, launching businesses, and creating content that resonates far beyond national borders.

DCAS 2026 also aims to highlight the role of technology in shaping the future of storytelling. One of the event’s major attractions will be a live artificial intelligence filmmaking demonstration by filmmaker and AI artist Malik Afegbua.

The summit will also host the launch of VEX, described as Africa’s first vertical content market, designed to support the growing demand for short-form digital content.

According to summit convener Ifeoma “Oma” Areh, Africa has reached a point where it can confidently define its own creative future rather than waiting for validation from global markets.

Her vision reflects a broader movement across the continent, where creators are increasingly building platforms, partnerships, and opportunities on their own terms.

Jointly organised by Digital Creator Africa and Handle It Africa, the summit seeks to create lasting connections between talent, technology, business, and policy.

As Africa’s creator economy continues to expand, gatherings such as DCAS are becoming essential platforms for shaping the next chapter of the continent’s digital and creative revolution.