The Deep Learning Indaba 2026

Our next annual Indaba will take place in Nigeria! Stay tuned and follow us on social media to catch all updates ! 

About Us

The Annual Indaba

The Deep Learning Indaba is an annual gathering that brings together hundreds of researchers, innovators, and students from across Africa and beyond to share knowledge, strengthen machine learning and AI capacity and celebrate African excellence in these fields.

Each year, the annual event is hosted in a different African country and features lectures, practical sessions, research presentations, community events, and opportunities for collaboration, all aimed at building a vibrant and connected AI community across the continent.

Applications

About the Applications Process

Applications to participate in the Deep Learning Indaba 2026 will open soon!

We welcome applications from anyone passionate about AI and ML in Africa whether a beginner, a student, a researcher, an educator, or a professional.

View our Applications guide for more details about the application process.

Agenda

 A Sneak Peak into Programme

The Deep Learning Indaba 2025 programme will feature an exciting mix of keynotes, tutorials, workshops, practical sessions, research presentations, and community discussions — all designed to showcase the depth and diversity of African machine learning and to strengthen our AI community. The full schedule is being finalised and will be shared soon!

What to Expect

The Indaba Experience

Learn from Industry and Academic Experts

Mentorship that Inspires Growth

Engaging Experiences Beyond the Sessions

Network with Africa’s AI Community

Connect with Global Sponsors and Partners

Present and Share Your Research

Support DLI 2026

Join us our Sponsors Community

The Indaba is actively seeking sponsorship to make the next gathering a success. By supporting the Deep Learning Indaba, you help grow the African AI and machine learning community, advance the AI ecosystem, and make a meaningful contribution to global diversity and inclusion in the field of AI.

We welcome partners who share our vision of an inclusive and thriving AI ecosystem. Opportunities are available for organizations of all sizes — from supporting scholarships and travel grants to sponsoring sessions and events.

Our Impact

Stories of Change Throughout the Years

Attending the Deep Learning Indaba was a pivotal moment in my journey. Before, I was learning about AI mostly in the corners. The Indaba connected me to a vibrant pan-African community of researchers and practitioners. It wasn’t just about the advanced courses; it was the encouragement from mentors and peers that was truly transformative. This experience gave me the confidence to pursue my own research, knowing I was part of a supportive network dedicated to shaping the future of AI in Africa. The Indaba is more than a conference; it’s a community that inspires and empowers.

Abraham Imani Bahati, AI Engineer

What stood out most was the sense of belonging , seeing so many talented Africans in one space was inspiring and encouraging. The mentorship opportunities and collaborations that started at the Indaba continue to shape my academic and career journey. It reminded me that Africa has both the talent and the drive to contribute meaningfully to the global AI landscape. The Indaba didn’t just help me learn; it motivated me to give back, mentor others, and be part of growing this community.

Ophelia Dankyi

Attending the annual Indaba was a life changing experience for me. It was more than just a conference, it was a community where I got inspired. I had the chance to learn from world class researchers while also connecting with peers from across Africa who share the same passion for advancing AI on the continent. The Indaba gave me knowledge that I could not have accessed on my own, but even more importantly, it gave me confidence. Being part of that space made me realize that African voices and ideas matter in the global conversation on AI. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity, and I believe the Indaba is planting seeds that will transform not only individuals like me, but the future of science and technology in Africa.

Selina Kadakwiza, PHD student

The Indaba showed me that Africa doesn’t just need AI. AI needs Africa. Our languages, data, problems, and ways of knowing have so much to offer global machine learning.

Dr Yazid HAMBALLY YACOUBA