Hosted by the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) Africa and 22 On Sloane, the congress welcomed approximately 2,500 delegates from 56 countries, 29 of which were African, reinforcing the role of entrepreneurship in driving economic growth, innovation, job creation and sustainable development across the continent.
Over two days, conversations explored some of the key issues shaping Africa’s entrepreneurial future, including access to capital and markets, AI and digital transformation, skills development, creative industries, venture capital, enterprise and supplier development, and cross-border collaboration.
A key highlight was the culmination of the Road to GEC+Africa, with 15 entrepreneurs from across the continent taking to the stage for the Continental Pitch Competition. The competition celebrated the depth and diversity of entrepreneurial talent emerging across Africa.
Continental Pitch Competition Winners
1st Place: DeafTouch – South Africa
A technology startup developing accessible communication solutions for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, including Africa’s first Deaf-to-Deaf call centre model.
2nd Place: Helton Traders Limited – Uganda
A women-led social enterprise transforming plastic waste into sustainable polyester sewing threads while creating opportunities for women and youth waste collectors.
3rd Place: Agrona – Egypt
A climate-tech startup turning agricultural waste into low-carbon materials for packaging, furniture and construction.
The congress also marked the launch of KUMii, an AI-powered digital platform developed by 22 On Sloane to connect entrepreneurs and businesses with capital, markets, knowledge, expertise, tools and opportunities to support their growth and scale.
GEC+Africa 2026 leaves behind new connections, ideas and partnerships that can continue to strengthen collaboration across the continent. The congress reinforced the importance of connecting Africa’s entrepreneurs, markets, capital and ecosystems to create greater opportunities for businesses to grow, scale and compete globally.
Relive GEC+Africa 2026
View the official GEC+Africa 2026 event photographs:
Day 1: View photos
Day 2: View photos
