Annual Meeting of African Science Academies (AMASA) 2026
To register and submit an abstract, please complete the online form here: AMASA 2026 Registration and Call for Papers Form.
The 2026 edition of AMASA focuses on Securing Africa’s Digital Transformation: AI, Cybersecurity and Sustainability. The conference comes at a critical moment when Africa is accelerating investments in digital infrastructure, connectivity, innovation ecosystems, artificial intelligence, and digital public services. Across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, finance, education, climate services, and governance, digital technologies are increasingly shaping Africa’s development trajectory.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents significant opportunities for advancing economic growth, improving public services, strengthening research and innovation, and supporting sustainable development. However, the expansion of digital systems also introduces growing risks associated with cyber threats, data insecurity, misinformation, digital exclusion, and vulnerabilities affecting critical infrastructure and public trust.
Cybersecurity is increasingly becoming a development issue rather than merely a technical concern, particularly in economies where digital finance and mobile-based public services are deeply embedded in daily life. Secure, resilient, and trusted digital systems are essential for enabling sustainable digital transformation and safeguarding Africa’s economic and social future. Addressing these issues requires transdisciplinary collaboration, evidence-informed policymaking, institutional preparedness, and strengthened continental cooperation.
Science academies in Africa have an important responsibility not only in generating evidence, but also in helping policymakers navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Additionally, they must also strive to inform public policy, strengthen science communication, and support responsible and ethical approaches to emerging technologies. Through NASAC, science academies are uniquely positioned to convene multidisciplinary expertise and facilitate continental dialogue on AI, cybersecurity, governance, innovation, and sustainability.
Hosting AMASA 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, provides a strategic opportunity to advance these discussions within one of Africa’s leading innovation and technology hubs. Often referred to as Africa’s Silicon Savannah, Nairobi has increasingly positioned itself as a regional center for digital innovation, fintech, entrepreneurship, research, and policy engagement, making it an appropriate setting for discussions on Africa’s digital future.
AMASA 2026 will therefore provide a timely platform for advancing dialogue, partnerships, and science-informed approaches towards secure, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable digital transformation in Africa.
SUB-THEMES
AI for Sustainable Development
- AI applications in health, agriculture, forestry, education, climate, and industry
- Digital innovation ecosystems and entrepreneurship
- Opportunities and risks associated with AI adoption in Africa
Cybersecurity and Digital Resilience
- Protection of critical digital infrastructure
- Cyber threats, data governance, and digital trust
- National and regional cybersecurity preparedness
Governance, Ethics and Policy
- AI governance and regulatory frameworks
- Ethical and responsible use of emerging technologies
- Science advice and evidence-informed policymaking
Digital Capacity, Innovation and Partnerships
- Digital skills and workforce development
- Strengthening research and innovation institutions
- Public-private partnerships and regional collaboration