As anticipation builds for the 10th edition of the AfriLabs Annual Gathering (AAG2025), AfriLabs, the largest pan-African network of innovation hubs and Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) have signed a strategic Collaboration Agreement to catalyze innovation, foster entrepreneurship, and promote inclusive technology development across Africa.
The partnership brings together two powerhouse institutions working at the intersection of innovation, policy, and sustainable development, and will see the two institutions jointly design and implement a broad range of programs and initiatives that support startups, build capacity, accelerate knowledge exchange, and unlock investment opportunities within and beyond Kenya.
The AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2025, taking place in Nairobi from October 7–9, will be one of the first major joint initiatives under this agreement, where Konza Technopolis will serve as the Strategic Government Partner. Through this role, Konza will help mobilize national stakeholders, host thematic showcases, and facilitate high-level participation, contributing to the event’s goal of shaping “Africa’s Innovation Future: Policy, Partnerships, and Progress.”
Key areas of collaboration outlined in the agreement include startup and innovation platform support, IP and commercialization guidance, joint R&D efforts in frontier technologies like AI and cleantech, talent development through bootcamps and training, and expanded access to funding via networks like the Catalytic Africa fund.
The agreement also includes a shared ambition to pilot African-led smart city and IoT solutions using Konza’s infrastructure as a testing ground, while also enabling cross-border startup exchange programs across AfriLabs’ network of innovation hubs in 53 African countries.
Konza Technopolis CEO, John Paul Okwiri adds, “We are proud to be the strategic government partner for the 2025 AfriLabs Annual Gathering in Nairobi. This MoU reflects the commitment of Konza Technopolis in strengthening Africa’s innovation ecosystem and positioning Kenya as a hub for tech-driven growth. We look forward to hosting the continent’s top innovators and fostering meaningful collaboration for a smarter, digital Africa.”
“This partnership represents our shared commitment to scaling African innovation through collaborative infrastructure, talent exchange, and knowledge networks. We’re proud to work alongside Konza Technopolis as we expand our mission to empower Africa’s next generation of innovators,” said Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director, AfriLabs.
This collaboration marks the beginning of a long-term, multidimensional partnership aimed at building resilient, inclusive innovation ecosystems that respond to Africa’s most pressing challenges and growth opportunities.
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