Africa is taking a bold step into the global tech arena as the Africa–Silicon Valley Forum prepares to bring world leaders, innovators, and investors together to shape the continent’s digital and AI future.
Set for Friday, October 10, 2025, the pre-event forum organised by the Foreign Investment Network (FIN) will serve as a curtain-raiser for the FIN Web Conference & AI Expo 2025, held from November 16 to 18 at the Computer History Museum in Silicon Valley, Northern California.
The event is designed to explore how artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and strategic investments can drive inclusive growth for African micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). According to organisers, the goal is to help Africa strengthen its footprint in global tech conversations while deepening economic partnerships with Silicon Valley.
“This forum provides direct access to investors, policymakers, and innovators in Silicon Valley and encourages a showcase of Africa’s expertise in AI, fintech, cybersecurity, sustainability, and digital infrastructure,” the organisers noted.
Driving Africa’s AI and Innovation Ambitions
Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and the Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science & Technology are among the key speakers.
They will join a lineup of global tech leaders, including the former CEO of Google, the co-founder of Hotmail, a global AI strategist, and the Chairman of the International Data Center Authority. Discussions will be led by the co-founder of SwissCognitive, focusing on AI adoption, digital infrastructure, and cross-border investment opportunities.
The forum will open with a keynote on “Championing Africa–Silicon Valley Investment Bridges and the Digital Economy” and explore “Sovereign AI for Inclusive Growth” — a roadmap for digital transformation across African nations. Another major highlight will focus on “Building AI-Ready Data Centres” to strengthen Africa’s infrastructure for sustainable growth.
Experts from Tunisia, Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, and Algeria will also share insights on national digital policies and innovation ecosystems. For Africa’s small businesses, the Africa–Silicon Valley Forum is more than a tech gathering — it’s a bridge to global relevance. MSMEs stand to benefit from exposure to investors, access to cutting-edge AI tools, and collaborative opportunities to scale across borders.
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