Deep Learning Indaba 2026 Call for Papers: Publish AI Research in Africa and Join the Global Innovation Movement

Artificial Intelligence is shaping the future of the world—but Africa is not just participating; it is actively building that future. The Deep Learning Indaba 2026 Call for Papers is now open, offering researchers a unique opportunity to contribute to globally recognized AI research while addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges and opportunities.

With a bold theme centered on “Sovereign Intelligence. African Scale,” the 2026 edition aims to position African researchers at the forefront of AI innovation, ownership, and development.

The deadline for abstract submissions is April 15, 2026, and full papers must be submitted by April 20, 2026.

What is Deep Learning Indaba?

Deep Learning Indaba is a leading pan-African movement dedicated to strengthening machine learning and artificial intelligence across the continent.

It brings together:

• Students
• Academic researchers
• Industry professionals
• Entrepreneurs

Each year, the Indaba convenes over 1,000 participants from more than 45 African countries, creating a vibrant ecosystem for collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange.

The 2026 edition will take place in Nigeria, a nation known for its scale, creativity, and rapidly growing tech ecosystem.

What’s New in 2026: Expanded Research Track

For 2026, the Indaba is significantly expanding its Research Track to include:

• Full-length, peer-reviewed papers
• Indexed academic publications
• Inclusion in a special volume of International Joint Conference on Artificial Intelligence (IJCAI)

Accepted papers will be presented at the Research in Africa Showcase, giving authors global visibility and recognition.

Theme 2026: Sovereign Intelligence. African Scale

The 2026 theme reflects a critical shift in global AI discourse: ownership, autonomy, and local relevance.

Sovereign Intelligence refers to Africa’s ability to:

• Build its own AI systems
• Control and manage its data
• Define its scientific and technological direction

As global competition accelerates toward Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), this theme emphasizes Africa’s role not as a consumer, but as a creator and leader in AI innovation.

Who Should Submit?

This Call for Papers is open to researchers working across core AI domains, especially those focusing on:

• Machine learning
• Data science
• Natural language processing
• Computer vision
• AI applications in African contexts

Key Requirement:

At least one author must be an Africa-based African researcher, ensuring that research remains grounded in local realities and expertise.

Benefits of Participation

Submitting to the Deep Learning Indaba offers multiple academic and professional advantages:

1. Global Publication Opportunity

Accepted papers will be published in an internationally recognized IJCAI volume.

2. Conference Presentation

Authors will present their work at the prestigious Research in Africa Showcase.

3. Complimentary Conference Pass

One author per accepted paper will receive a free conference pass, with priority given to Africa-based researchers.

4. Networking and Collaboration

Participants gain access to a diverse network of AI experts, institutions, and innovators across Africa and beyond.

Key Deadlines

• Abstract Submission Deadline: April 15, 2026
• Full Paper Submission Deadline: April 20, 2026

Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare early and ensure their submissions meet academic standards.

Why This Opportunity Matters

The Deep Learning Indaba is more than a conference it is a movement.

It represents a collective commitment to:

• Elevate African AI research globally
• Foster inclusive innovation ecosystems
• Build capacity across the continent
• Ensure Africa plays a central role in shaping the future of AI

Inspired by the words of Wole Soyinka,
“A tiger does not proclaim its tigritude; it pounces,”
the Indaba embodies action, excellence, and impact.

How to Participate

Interested researchers can submit their abstracts and full papers through the official Deep Learning Indaba submission platform.

For more information click here 

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