The 6th edition of the Cyber Africa Forum (CAF) is set to take place in Cotonou, Benin, on November 16-17, 2026. The event, to be held at the Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa, will bring together over 1,000 stakeholders from the public and private sectors to discuss cyber security, digital trust, and digital transformation. Franck KIÉ, Founder and General Commissioner of CAF, announced the event during a press conference on November 2, 2026.

The forum aims to address the growing concern of cyber threats and the need for digital trust in Africa. With the increasing intensity of cyber attacks, the continent must strengthen its protection capabilities and create a safer digital environment. The event will provide a platform for experts to share knowledge and experiences, and for stakeholders to explore concrete solutions to the challenges posed by cyber threats.

According to Franck KIÉ, digital trust is no longer just a technical concern, but a essential condition for the widespread adoption of digital technologies. He emphasized that every online interaction requires users to have assurance that their exchanges, data, and transactions are protected. The forum will discuss ways to build digital trust, including protecting critical infrastructure, strengthening local cyber security capacities, and promoting a culture of cyber security.

The choice of Cotonou as the host city for the 6th edition of CAF reflects the interest in Benin's digital dynamics. The country has created a favorable environment for discussions and initiatives related to digital transformation, cyber security, and innovation. The event will provide an opportunity to showcase national experiences, facilitate exchanges between stakeholders, and encourage the emergence of structuring partnerships.

The forum will also focus on enabling Africa to actively participate in shaping its digital future. This involves developing local skills, creating sustainable protection mechanisms for digital ecosystems, and promoting a collective approach to cyber security. The event aims to become a strategic reflection and cooperation space around the major digital challenges facing the continent.

The discussions at the forum will explore concrete responses to the challenges posed by cyber threats, including how to better protect critical infrastructure, strengthen local cyber security capacities, and promote a culture of digital trust. The goal is to ensure that Africa is not just a consumer of digital solutions designed elsewhere, but an active participant in defining its own security and trust standards.

The Cyber Africa Forum is a key event that highlights the importance of digital trust in Africa's digital transformation. With the increasing reliance on digital technologies, the need for a safe and secure digital environment has become a top priority. The forum will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities in this area and explore ways to build a more secure digital future for Africa.

Key points

  • The 6th Cyber Africa Forum will focus on building digital trust in Africa.
  • The event will bring together over 1,000 stakeholders from the public and private sectors.
  • The forum aims to enable Africa to actively participate in shaping its digital future.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.