By Chinenye Anuforo
Founders, developers and technology leaders from across Africa and beyond will converge in Lagos on January 22, 2026, for the AI in Action Now 2026 conference, aimed at driving practical and locally grounded artificial intelligence solutions.
The conference, organised by CarbonAI Ltd UK, will take place in Lagos. It is being convened by its Chief Executive Officer, Debola Ibiyode.
Speaking in Lagos, Ibiyode said the event was designed to move beyond industry hype and focus on how artificial intelligence can be applied to solve real problems across the continent. The theme of the conference is “Driving Productivity, Innovation, and Sustainability — Building the Future in AI Together.”
She explained that the gathering would explore how emerging technologies such as Large Language Models (LLMs), agent-based AI systems and generative AI can be used to improve productivity, support innovation and promote sustainable development in Africa.
According to her, the conference is targeted at professionals and entrepreneurs who are ready to build and deploy solutions, rather than simply discuss the technology.
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“We are focused on real-world impact. The goal is to support founders and developers to turn ideas into usable products, while also promoting responsible AI that delivers social and economic value,” she said.
The programme will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions and technical sessions covering generative AI and intelligent agent frameworks. Participants will also take part in hands-on workshops focused on building and scaling AI products, as well as a startup and product showcase highlighting African-built solutions.
In addition, mentorship and networking sessions will link early-stage founders with experienced industry professionals, investors and policy stakeholders.
The organisers said the conference is expected to attract a broad range of participants, including software engineers, data scientists, business leaders, educators, policymakers and students, with the aim of promoting an inclusive and ethical approach to AI development.
AI in Action Now 2026 will also offer sponsorship opportunities for organisations seeking to engage with Africa’s growing technology ecosystem and emerging AI talent.
Ibiyode said the future of Africa’s digital economy must be shaped from within the continent.
“Africa’s AI revolution has to be homegrown. This platform is about bringing together those who are building, regulating and nurturing innovation, so that we can create solutions that truly work for our people,” she said.

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