ZANZIBAR HOSTS THREE-DAY DATA TAMASHA AFRICA 2026

Panelists at Data Tamasha Africa 2026 lead discussions during the three-day gathering, which kicked off in Zanzibar and has brought together more than 300 delegates, 100+ organisations, and participants from 30 countries.

ZANZIBAR, August 19, 2026 — Zanzibar is hosting the three-day Data Tamasha Africa 2026, bringing together more than 300 delegates, over 100 organisations and participants from 30 countries at Hotel Verde.

The event, which kicked off on Wednesday, is co-hosted by the Tanzania Data Lab (dLab) and Pollicy Uganda, in close coordination with the Zanzibar Ministry of Communication, Information Technology and Innovation.

Data Tamasha Africa 2026 provides a platform for African institutions, innovators and communities to move beyond conversations about digital transformation and showcase practical solutions using data, digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).

ZANZIBAR POSITIONED AS DIGITAL INNOVATION HUB

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Zanzibar Minister for Communications, Information Technology and Innovation, Mudrik Ramadhan Soraga, said Zanzibar was honoured to host the continental event.

“For Zanzibar, hosting Data Tamasha Africa 2026 reinforces its growing role as a regional hub for digital innovation, data-driven development and digital governance,” Soraga said.

 

He said the event would enhance Zanzibar’s international profile as a destination for digital innovation while attracting investment in ICT, education, business and public services.

“We want to see data and technology being used as tools to boost productivity, accountability and sustainable development,” he added.

BUILDING WITH DATA

Held under the theme “Kujenga na Data / Building with Data,” the event brings together participants to share homegrown AI solutions, community-driven data systems, digital public innovations and practical approaches designed around Africa’s priorities and realities.

Tanzania Data Lab Executive Director Dr Mahadia Tunga said informed decision-making was increasingly critical, particularly for countries operating with constrained resources.

“Data helps identify development priorities and ensures that our limited resources are being used effectively across the continent,” Dr Tunga said.

She described Data Tamasha Africa as a premier platform for participants to meet, learn from successful initiatives and openly discuss shared challenges.

She also encouraged Zanzibar residents to attend and participate in the event.

BIG IDEAS NEED PEOPLE TO CONNECT

Pollicy Executive Director Neema Iyer said the event provides an important opportunity for talented people across Africa to meet and exchange ideas in person.

“Big ideas need talented people to encounter one another. Not to meet on a screen, not to meet through a report, but to meet in person, in a room, where we can see each other’s faces and hear each other’s stories,” she said.

Iyer noted that Africa has immense talent, but many ideas risk remaining unrealised when people and institutions remain isolated.

She also emphasised the importance of creating space for joy and human connection within the technology and data sector.

“We mustn’t think of joy as a distraction. Joy is fuel for big and bold ideas,” she said, encouraging participants to use the event to connect, learn, enjoy themselves and remember their passion for the field.

A PLATFORM FOR COLLABORATION AND ACTION

Data Tamasha Africa 2026 brings together data scientists, policymakers, researchers, innovators, development partners, private-sector leaders, civil society organisations, young people and creatives.

The three-day gathering is expected to provide a unique space for collaboration, learning and action, while highlighting how data, digital technologies and AI can contribute to solving Africa’s development challenges.

For Zanzibar, the event further highlights the island’s ambitions to strengthen its position in digital innovation, technology and data-driven development.

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