SAVE THE DATE · 22 OCTOBER 2026
Connecting the Brightest Minds at the KZN AI Summit 2026
Join industry leaders, innovators, academics, heads of state and entrepreneurs in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal as we explore the future of artificial intelligence, drive collaboration and unlock new opportunities across the SADC tech ecosystem.
Summit Countdown
Durban ICC, KwaZulu-Natal
08:00 SAST, 22 October 2026
Who You'll Meet
A Room Built for Every Corner of the AI Ecosystem
Join the Revolution
Dive Into Innovation and Connect with Tech Leaders
KZN AI Summit is the first premier AI event for tech enthusiasts and professionals eager to explore the latest in AI advancements. Embrace the future at the KZN AI Summit and SADC AI Hackathon 2026.
South Africa is experiencing a transformative wave of investment in AI infrastructure, and KwaZulu-Natal is positioning itself as the country's third AI hub. This is where that future gets decided.
21+
Expert speakers
500+
Delegates expected
On the Agenda
Key Topics at KZN AI Summit 2026
Seven tracks shaping the conversation, from policy and governance to the next decade of artificial intelligence.
AI Policy & Governance
- Ethical AI Frameworks – Balancing innovation & accountability.
- Regulating AI in SA – Policies for inclusive, secure adoption.
- Public Sector AI Standards – Ensuring transparency & fairness.
SADC States & AI Leadership
- National AI Strategy – Aligning provincial, national & SADC AI goals.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) – Collaborative AI funding & projects.
- AI for Service Delivery – Enhancing healthcare, education & utilities.
Smart Cities & Municipal AI
- IoT & AI-Driven Infrastructure – Traffic, energy & waste management.
- Engagement Tech – Web3, AI chatbots & data-driven decision-making.
- Case Studies – Global smart city lessons for KZN.
Academic Institutions' AI Revolution
- Curriculum Transformation – Integrating AI across disciplines.
- Research & Innovation Hubs – Cutting-edge AI projects in KZN universities.
- Industry-Academia Collaboration – Bridging theory and real-world applications.
- AI Skills Development – Preparing graduates for the AI-driven job market.
- Emerging Technologies Lab – Showcasing student-led AI innovations.
AI for Economic Sectors
- Agriculture – Precision farming, drone monitoring & AI supply chains.
- Retail – Personalised shopping, inventory and delivery AI tech.
- Financial Services – Fraud detection, robo-advisors & blockchain AI.
- Gaming & Creative Industries – Generative AI, VR & immersive media.
Entrepreneurship, AI Innovation & Opportunities
- Start-up Opportunities – Funding, incubators & AI tools for SMEs.
- Real Estate AI – Predictive analytics & virtual property tours.
- Youth Empowerment – Low-code AI solutions & digital skills.
- Online AI-preneur Tools – Turning AI skills into money-making opportunities.
The Future of Artificial Intelligence
Next decade trends and KZN's roadmap to become SA's AI hub by 2030.
What Awaits You
One On One With Industry Leaders
Exclusive Networking
Connect one on one with industry leaders and peers in networking sessions tailored for tech enthusiasts.
Hands-On Workshops
Participate in interactive after-summit workshops designed to sharpen your skills in AI technologies.
Inspiring Keynotes
Hear renowned speakers unpack the latest AI trends, innovations and what comes next for the region.
Backed By
Our Sponsors & Partners
What Attendees Say
Loved by the People Who Showed Up
“KZN AI Summit in Durban was a phenomenal event that brings technology enthusiasts together. The sessions were insightful, and the networking opportunities were unmatched.”
Liam Daniels
Attendee, 2025
“Can't wait to attend the KZN AI Summit 2026. The 2025 Summit exceeded my expectations, the speaker topics are top notch and cover the cutting edge AI issues that matter.”
Jessica Moleti
Attendee, 2025
“KZN AI Summit 2025 in Durban exceeded my expectations. This was a long overdue event in KZN. I can't wait to implement what I've learnt and exchange ideas with industry leaders.”
Thabo Nkosi
Attendee, 2025
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you register.
The summit takes place on 22 October 2026 at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC), Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Doors open at 08:00 SAST.
Tickets are sold through Quicket. Click any Register Now or Get Tickets button on this site and you will be taken straight to our official Quicket page to complete your booking.
Yes. We offer Silver, Gold and Platinum sponsorship packages plus Basic, Standard and Premium exhibition stands. Visit the Sponsorships page for full pricing and benefits, or contact us directly.
The summit is built for government officials, funders and venture capitalists, private sector leaders, academia and researchers, NGOs, entrepreneurs and anyone serious about AI's impact on South Africa and the SADC region.
We review speaker applications on an ongoing basis. Head to the Speakers page and use the Apply to Speak button, or email us directly with your topic and background.
Sign up for our newsletter in the footer of any page, or follow KZN AI Summit on Facebook for speaker announcements, agenda updates and ticket news.
Your Seat at Africa's AI Table Is Waiting
Limited delegate places for KZN AI Summit 2026. Secure yours before the countdown runs out.
Join The Event