Africa: Hub Unconference to Tackle Ai's Growing Influence in Africa

The Hub Unconference, an annual gathering in Harare, Zimbabwe, will convene young Africans for a two-day event on September 24 and 25 to discuss the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies on society. The conference, themed "Unruly Algorithms," aims to shift the conversation from merely explaining AI to exploring how young Africans can influence and shape the technologies that increasingly affect their lives.

Organizers want attendees, which include students, creatives, journalists, policymakers, technologists, and digital enthusiasts, to question how digital systems are influencing information, education, creativity, and civic participation across Africa. They seek to engage participants in shaping the future of these technologies rather than merely discussing their impact.

The agenda for the event includes panel discussions, masterclasses, debates, live podcasts, creative pop-ups, and interactive showcases. International speakers from countries like Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, and Zimbabwe will share insights on the subject matter. A Canva masterclass led by Nicole Njanjari and pop-up sessions featuring organizations such as Friendship Bench, Magitare Trust, and Defend Defenders are also part of the program.

The conference's organizers emphasize the importance of bringing together diverse participants—students, creatives, journalists, technologists, and policymakers—to collectively question digital systems, learn practical skills, and envision a digitally-driven future shaped by Africans themselves. The Hub Unconference is free to attend, with registration required through the Shoko Festival website. This event is part of the annual Shoko Festival, which celebrates urban culture in Zimbabwe.