ID4Africa 2026: Abidjan hosts digital identity leaders in West Africa

The vibrant city of Abidjan is set to host a pivotal gathering of digital identity innovators and policymakers from May 12 to 15, 2026. The 7th annual ID4Africa general assembly will unfold at the Parc des Expositions de Port-Bouët, bringing together visionaries from public and private sectors alongside international partners.

Building inclusive digital ecosystems for Africa

Under the theme « Digital Identity: From Public Digital Infrastructure to Digital Public Ecosystems », this year’s event will focus on transforming how African nations approach identity verification, secure data management, and inclusive access to digital public services. The discussions aim to move beyond technical infrastructure to create holistic systems that integrate human, legal, and institutional dimensions.

Leadership and collaboration in focus

The official opening on May 12, 2026, was led by Vice-President Tiémoko Meyliet Koné, emphasizing the government’s commitment to digital transformation. Over four days, participants will explore strategies for strengthening digital identity frameworks, ensuring data protection, and fostering collaboration between public institutions, private enterprises, and global stakeholders.

Côte d’Ivoire’s digital ambition

For Côte d’Ivoire, hosting this conference is a strategic step in positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s digital future. The event highlights the nation’s dedication to building reliable digital identity systems that empower citizens with seamless access to essential services, from healthcare to financial inclusion.

Since its inception in 2014, ID4Africa has been a driving force behind the development of robust and responsible digital identity ecosystems across the continent. By fostering knowledge-sharing and best practices, the initiative supports countries in leveraging identity solutions for economic growth, humanitarian efforts, and digital transformation.