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Conference Shifts Focus from AI Hype to Real-World Deployment Across Africa
Founders, developers and business leaders are set to explore how artificial intelligence can drive scalable business growth at the AI in Action Now Lagos 2026 conference, scheduled for January 22.
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Positioned as a platform for practical innovation, the conference will spotlight real-world AI deployment rather than speculative debates. Africa’s tech ecosystem is increasingly looking to turn experimentation into measurable impact.
Moving Beyond Hype to Practical AI Solutions
In a statement issued in Lagos, Debola Ibiyode, Chief Executive Officer of Carbon AI and convener of the event, said the initiative is designed to redirect the AI conversation from hype to productivity-driven innovation.
“AI in Action 2026 is designed as a high-impact platform where deep-tech innovation meets real-world application. The focus is on how large language models, agentic AI frameworks and generative AI can be harnessed to power Africa’s transformation,” Ibiyode said.
She added that the conference is impact-led and non-profit, aimed at supporting Africa’s next generation of AI builders. It isfocusing on technical depth, collaboration and practical deployment pathways.
Theme Highlights Productivity, Innovation and Sustainability
The conference theme — “Driving Productivity, Innovation, and Sustainability: Building the Future in AI Together” — reflects growing pressure on African economies to adopt technologies that deliver tangible social and economic value.
Organisers say the programme is designed to show how AI can be applied across critical sectors such as education, finance, infrastructure and public services, ensuring that adoption translates into long-term development outcomes.
Hands-On Sessions for Africa’s AI Builders
The one-day event will feature:
- Keynote addresses and expert panels examining advances in generative AI and agentic systems
- Practical workshops focused on building, deploying and scaling production-ready AI tools
- A startup and product showcase highlighting African-built solutions to local and regional challenges
Mentorship and structured networking sessions will also connect early-stage founders with seasoned practitioners and industry leaders, supporting the shift from innovation labs to commercialisation.
Building an Inclusive and Responsible AI Ecosystem
Ibiyode said the conference is targeting a broad mix of participants, including:
- Software engineers and data scientists
- Educators and researchers
- Business executives and policymakers
- ICT infrastructure providers, including data centre operators
This diversity, she noted, reflects the interconnected nature of AI deployment, which requires collaboration across technology, policy and industry.
“We are not chasing hype or funding; we are chasing real impact,” she said.
“This platform is for founders and builders who are ready to move from ideas to deployable solutions.”
Sponsorship Opportunities as Competition for AI Talent Intensifies
Organisers are also offering tiered sponsorship packages for organisations seeking visibility among decision-makers and emerging AI talent, as competition grows to shape Africa’s fast-evolving digital economy.
According to Ibiyode, the broader goal is to ensure that Africa’s AI future is homegrown, inclusive and responsible.
“Africa’s digital revolution must be built from within. This is about creating the future of AI together — not just talking about it,” she said.
