The Nairobi AI Forum 2026 (Nairobi AI Forum 2026) was held from 9 to 10 February 2026 in Kenya. It brought together government representatives, private sector leaders, development partners and technological innovators in order to trace pathways for the adoption of AI that generates impact. On the occasion, the Group of the African Development Bank (the Bank Group) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the $10 billion AI initiative.

10 billion dollars for AI, is a transformative continental initiative to accelerate adoption responsible for artificial intelligence and economic growth inclusive digital across Africa. It is a partnership designed jointly by the Bank Group, UNDP and private partners, which aims to mobilize up to $10 billion by 2035. These resources will be deployed to create up to 40 million new jobs across the continent by 2035, through targeted investments that are building the foundations of AI and catalyzing large-scale adoption — from entrepreneurship and regional data infrastructure to frameworks policies and skills development.

The $10 billion AI initiative based on the Bank's June 2025 report, Africa's AI Productivity Gain: Pathways to Labour Efficiency, Economic Growth and Inclusive Transformation, which outlines a three-phase roadmap for preparation for AI, based on the activation of five catalysts interdependent: data, IT, skills, trust and capital.

The $10 billion AI initiative marks a new stage in the Bank Group's commitment to advance Africa's AI agenda, to promote innovation, to create jobs for young people and women, and to unlock a increase in Africa's GDP estimated at 1 000 Bookman Old Style”, serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Bookman Old Style"> billions dollars d ' here 2035.