The GSMA has announced the postponement of MWC26 Kigali, Africa’s flagship connectivity and technology summit, barely two weeks before the event was scheduled to bring together policymakers, telecoms operators, technology companies, investors, startups and innovators from across the continent.
The event had been scheduled to hold from June 16 to 18, 2026, at the Kigali Convention Centre in Rwanda. Organised by the GSMA in partnership with Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT and Innovation, MWC Kigali has become one of Africa’s most influential platforms for discussions on digital transformation, connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, digital infrastructure and emerging technologies.
In a statement issued by the GSMA, the organiser expressed regret over the sudden change in schedule and assured stakeholders of its continued commitment to Africa’s digital ecosystem.
“We recognise the inconvenience this may cause to our participants and appreciate their understanding,” the GSMA said. “A new date will be announced in due course.”
The organisation did not disclose the specific reasons behind the postponement but reaffirmed its commitment to convening the continent’s leading connectivity event at a later date.
The development marks another disruption for the summit, following a similar postponement during the planning cycle for the 2024 edition.
The 2026 edition was expected to focus on four strategic themes aligned with Africa’s digital development agenda. These include Connect AI, which would explore the localisation and ethical deployment of AI models across the continent; Fintech and Commerce; Digital Africa, aimed at advancing financial and digital inclusion for underserved communities; and Intelligent Infrastructure, which would address critical challenges around connectivity, backhaul capacity and data-routing gaps.
Ahead of the postponement, organisers had unveiled an extensive programme featuring the GSMA Ministerial Programme, technology and 5G summits, fintech and commerce sessions, cybersecurity forums, agritech and healthtech discussions, and the inaugural GLOMOs Africa Awards.
MWC Kigali serves as Africa’s edition of the globally recognised Mobile World Congress series organised by the GSMA. The event is part of a portfolio that includes internationally acclaimed gatherings such as MWC Barcelona, MWC Shanghai and MWC Las Vegas.
Over the years, MWC Kigali has evolved into a key meeting point for governments, regulators, mobile network operators, technology vendors, startups, development partners and investors seeking to shape the future of Africa’s digital economy. The summit has played a significant role in fostering dialogue on policy, investment, innovation and collaboration aimed at accelerating digital inclusion and connectivity across the continent.
The postponement leaves uncertainty over the immediate timeline for one of Africa’s most anticipated technology gatherings, with stakeholders now awaiting the GSMA’s announcement of revised dates for the event.
Home
