Kenya is set to host the Global Data Festival 2026, marking the first time the international event will be held in Africa. The announcement highlights the growing importance of data and space technology for development.

• Kenya Space Agency Director General Hillary Kipkosgey emphasized the use of satellite and earth observation data for socio-economic development, despite facing challenges like infrastructure gaps and skilled human resource shortages.
• Kenya is recognized as a space-faring nation after successfully launching two satellites.
• Kenya's Special Envoy on Technology, Philip Thigo, noted that satellite and digital data are integral to daily life and contribute to nearly 90 percent of development priorities.
• The selection of Kenya to host the festival is attributed to its leadership in digital transformation and data innovation, as stated by Joan Sloetin, CEO of the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data.