Cotonou hosts 300 participants from 17 nations to discuss digital transformation and production capacity.
The 15th Africa Digital Expo (ADEX) in Cotonou, Benin, has rebranded to the One Africa Digital Forum, signaling a shift in focus from digital adoption to production and innovation. The event, held October 19-21, 2026, gathered over 300 participants from 17 countries to explore digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, AI, and public services. The forum aims to accelerate the continent's digital transformation by fostering synergies and innovation.
Syntyche Le Boedec, Director of Cabinet for Benin's Minister of Digital Transformation and Innovation, emphasized the nation's commitment to a digital ecosystem and 5G infrastructure. She stated that while connecting Africa was a past ambition, the current challenge is transforming digital adoption into production and value creation. The forum's inaugural panel addressed critical infrastructure and national strategies for 5G deployment across the continent.
Hind Sidqui, Director General of One Africa Digital Forum, announced the name change, asserting that digital technology is no longer a separate sector but the economy itself. This rebranding reflects the ambition to strengthen collaboration and drive digital advancement. The forum's discussions over two days included B2B meetings and reflections on how digital advancements can spur continental development.
Why it mattersInvestors are affected by discussions on digital infrastructure, 5G deployment, and the shift towards digital production and innovation in Africa.
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