"The GSMA MWC25 conference in Kigali resumes with emphasis on African digital advancement and the introduction of a ministerial program"
MWC25 Kigali, one of Africa's most significant connectivity events, is set to take place from October 21 to 23, 2025. This major forum will delve into transformative technology and innovation in Africa, with a comprehensive agenda spanning four main stages addressing diverse themes such as 5G and beyond, digital financial ecosystems, security, inclusive growth, and Africa's digital future[1].
Key elements of the agenda on the opening day, October 21, include:
- MWC Main Stage: The opening ceremony, followed by keynote speeches like "Transforming the Telco: 5G & Beyond – The Next Phase of Inclusive, Sustainable Connectivity"[1].
- Security Summit: Focused discussions on security issues[1].
- M4D (Mobile for Development): Forums on mobile money leadership, digital ecosystem connectivity, and inclusion for sustainable growth[1].
- Ministerial Stage: Panels on shaping Africa’s digital and AI future, bridging the digital divide, and amplifying Africa’s voice in global digital dialogues[1].
Confirmed key speakers include prominent industry leaders such as Sunil Taldar (CEO of Airtel Africa), Hassan Jaber (CEO of AXIAN Telecom), Frehiwot Tamiru (CEO of Ethiotel), Ralph Mupita (CEO of MTN), Yasser Shaker (EVP & CEO of Orange's Middle East and Africa division), and Paula Ingabire (Rwanda's Minister of ICT and Innovation)[4]. The event draws participation from major global corporations such as Mannai, Cisco, Nokia, and strategic partners like Ooredoo and Qatar University[2].
Thematically, MWC25 Kigali will explore topics such as the impact of artificial intelligence on business, governance, and daily life, the evolution of digital infrastructure, data sovereignty, and smart network deployment, and the integration of advanced technologies in sectors like finance, mobility, energy, and logistics[2].
MWC25 Kigali will host a dynamic show floor featuring exhibitors, sponsors, and partners such as AXIAN Telecom, Ethiotel, Huawei, Meta, MTN, Orange, TerraPay, Telcoin, and ZTE[3]. The event does not repeat its hosting by the GSMA in partnership with the Ministry of ICT & Innovation of Rwanda, nor does it provide any new information about the GSMA Ministerial Programme or any new initiatives from MWC Barcelona[5].
The Mobile for Development (M4D) Theatre will provide a platform for discussions on topics like artificial intelligence, mobile money, humanitarian innovation, agriculture, climate, and digital inclusion[6]. However, MWC25 Kigali does not provide details about the Mobile for Development (M4D) Theatre's specific discussions. The event's exact location and travel information are not mentioned[7].
This comprehensive setup underscores Africa’s focus on leveraging connectivity, AI, and digital inclusion to transform its economic and social landscape at this key global forum[1][2][4].
[1] Source: https://www.mwc25kigali.com/agenda [2] Source: https://www.gsma.com/mobile360/series/mwc25-kigali/ [3] Source: https://www.mwc25kigali.com/exhibitors [4] Source: https://www.gsma.com/mobile360/series/mwc25-kigali/speakers [5] Source: https://www.mwc25kigali.com/ [6] Source: https://www.mwc25kigali.com/m4d-theatre [7] Source: https://www.mwc25kigali.com/travel-info (No information provided)
- At MWC25 Kigali, discussions on the first day will include a keynote speech about transformative technology in the realm of finance, as well as forums focused on digital financial ecosystems and mobile money leadership.
- The event will also feature panel discussions on shaping Africa's future in business and technology, particularly in sectors like finance, mobility, energy, and logistics, and exploring the impact of artificial intelligence on these areas.
