Africa and the AI Economy

Africa and the AI Economy is a panel examining Africa’s place in the global artificial intelligence economy. The discussion will address African affairs, technology policy, entrepreneurship, fintech, and economic development, with speakers working across government, business, technology, and economic growth.

The program is presented by the Carey Africa Business Club, SAIS Africa Club, SAIS Tech Club, and Village Ties. A networking session with light refreshments will follow the panel.

When: November 13, 2026

Showtimes: 4:30–7 p.m. EST

Venue: Rooms 940/944, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center

Tickets: Free

Registration: Registration is required; attendees should register in advance.

Audience: The general public, Johns Hopkins faculty, staff, and students may attend.

Lineup: Featured speakers are Amb. Christopher Kirigua, deputy chief of mission at the Embassy of Kenya; Olivia Igbokwe-Curry, head of political giving and strategy at Amazon; Christian Duffus, founder and CEO of Fonbnk; and Eric Chehmere, group lead of AI solutions engineering at Cassava Technologies. Hanan Awel, founder of Village Ties, will moderate.

After the panel: Networking and light bites will be provided.

Entry requirement: Visitors who are not affiliated with Johns Hopkins must present a government-issued ID when entering the Hopkins Bloomberg Center.

Contact: Carey Africa Business Club, SAIS Africa Club, and SAIS Tech Club at [email protected]