2026 Program

Conference Themes

Digital transformation is no longer optional — it is shaping how we deliver aid, respond to crises, and plan for more sustainable futures. The ICT4D Conference 2026 brings practitioners together to explore four interconnected themes including a focus on hands-on learning.

Data: Charting the Future of Data in Development and Humanitarian Response

Data has the power to drive smarter decisions and better outcomes — but it also brings new risks and responsibilities. Under this theme, participants:

  • Examine the opportunities and pitfalls of AI in development and humanitarian work.

  • Discuss the imperatives of data sharing, integration, and interoperability across organizations.

  • Explore the power dynamics in data collection and use, ensuring ethical, inclusive approaches.

  • Consider how to safeguard critical data sources and services amid disruption and rapid change.

Why it matters: Effective, ethical use of data is essential for reaching those most in need and ensuring accountability in fragile and fast-moving contexts.

Future: Shaping Tomorrow — Building Equitable and Sustainable Digital Futures

The development sector is in flux, with funding structures, priorities, and leadership models shifting dramatically. This theme explores:

  • The future of digital localization — putting local actors and institutions at the center.

  • The role of young people in driving digital transformation, both as users and innovators.

  • How digital public infrastructure can unlock inclusion and sustainability.

Why it matters: As resources tighten and demands grow, reimagining the future of digital development is critical to building fairer, more resilient systems.

Impact: Delivering on the Sustainable Development Goals in a Fragile World

Global challenges are intensifying — from climate change to food insecurity to public health crises. Digital solutions can help us do more with less. This theme highlights how digital approaches are enabling progress in:

  • Climate resilience and adaptation strategies.

  • Strengthening food systems and agricultural productivity.

  • Improving health outcomes through digital transformation of health systems.

  • Emergency preparedness and response, from geospatial analysis to digital currencies.

Why it matters: When funding shrinks but problems persist, digital transformation is one of the most powerful levers we have to sustain progress toward the SDGs.

Hands-On Theme: Practical Demonstrations & Interactive Learning

True to the ICT4D Conference spirit, this theme focuses on peer-to-peer learning and hands-on practice. Attendees:

  • Join short, practical demonstrations of digital tools and solutions in action.

  • Participate in longer workshops designed for skill-building, problem-solving, and co-creation.

  • Connect with practitioners who are testing, iterating, and applying solutions in the field.

Why it matters: It’s not just about theory — it’s about sharing what works, learning from what doesn’t, and building capacity across the sector.

Each theme was designed to spark cross-sector conversations, ensuring that practitioners, donors, private sector actors, and policymakers leave with actionable insights and new collaborations.

Keynote Speakers

The ICT4D Conference brings together visionary leaders and bold voices who are shaping the future of digital development. Past speakers have included innovators from global NGOs, donor agencies, governments, tech companies, and grassroots movements.

Workshops, Panels, and Networking

The ICT4D Conference is built around practical learning and collaboration.

  • Interactive Workshops: Skill-building sessions designed to share tools, methods, and approaches you can put to work immediately.

  • Panel Discussions: Thought-provoking debates that bring multiple perspectives together to tackle complex issues.

  • Networking Opportunities: From coffee breaks to curated meet-ups, connect with peers, funders, and innovators from across the world.

Key Technical Areas

Core Digital Subsectors
Domain-specific applications and sector highlights.

  • Health information systems, telemedicine, community health tools, data for public health.

  • Agtech, farmer advisory services, climate-smart agriculture, supply chain digitization.

  • Mobile money, digital payments, financial inclusion, fintech for vulnerable populations.

  • Crisis mapping, early warning systems, digital ID, tools for disaster preparedness and response.

  • Foundational systems for identity, payments, data exchange, and government services.

Cross-Cutting & Emerging Subsectors
Interdisciplinary themes and foundational technologies affecting all sectors.

  • Responsible AI, data governance, interoperability, predictive analytics.

  • Climate data platforms, remote sensing, conservation tech, resilience and adaptation tools.

  • EdTech platforms, workforce development, digital literacy, youth-focused innovation.

  • Early warning & conflict prevention, negotiation and mediation tools, and citizen engagement

  • Broadband access, last-mile connectivity, offline-first solutions, accessibility and inclusion