Benin to host Cyber Africa Forum and Africa Think Tank Summit in 2026

Cotonou, Benin, is set to host two major continental summits in late 2026 focused on digital security and energy reform.

The Cyber Africa Forum (CAF) will take place on November 16–17, 2026, under the theme “Building Tomorrow’s Digital Trust.” Organized by Kaydan Group with support from the Beninese government, the event aims to address rising cyber threats. Data from INTERPOL indicates that artificial intelligence is now involved in 55% of reported cybercrimes across Africa, with reported losses increasing from USD 192 million in 2024 to USD 484 million in 2025. The forum will convene over 1,500 decision-makers to discuss AI sovereignty, digital identity, and cyber diplomacy.

Additionally, the 12th Africa Think Tank Summit will be held from October 28–30, 2026. Organized by the African Capacity Building Foundation, the Government of Benin, and the African Union, the summit will gather approximately 300 participants from over 50 countries. The meeting will focus on practical policy pathways to improve power sector viability and economic transformation, addressing the fact that nearly 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa still lack electricity access.