African innovation summits focus on AI and intellectual property

Major innovation summits are taking place in West Africa to address technological advancement and economic development.

In Niamey, Niger, the 10th edition of the African Salon of Invention and Innovative Enterprise (SAIIT) has opened. Under the theme ‘Intellectual Property and Financing of Innovative SMEs,’ the event brings together delegations from 17 member states of the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI). Discussions focus on transforming African inventions into commercial products and industrial value chains to foster job creation and technological sovereignty. The exhibition covers sectors including agro-industry, health, renewable energy, and digital transformation.

Simultaneously, the 11th Nigeria Innovation Summit (NIS) is convening in Lagos. Themed ‘Innovating in the Age of AI,’ the summit explores how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies can accelerate development across Africa. Key sessions address the application of AI in education, agriculture, and healthcare, as well as the regulatory frameworks, data governance, and investment required to deploy AI responsibly on the continent.