The 7^th AfricaLics Conference seeks to critically reflect on the relationship between innovation and society in Africa — examining power, inequality, and the social dimensions of innovation in the digital age. It calls for new, forward-thinking approaches to achieving shared development goals across the continent and globally.

Sub-Themes:

• Historical, theoretical and conceptual perspectives on innovation and development
• Political economy challenges for innovation in Africa
• Digital revolution, AI, and the African gig economy
• The creative sector, arts, and innovation
• African knowledge traditions and innovation systems
• Sustainability-oriented innovation (energy, water, agriculture, manufacturing, etc.)
• Innovation policies and socio-economic transformation (STISA 2034, Agenda 2063, SDGs)
• Financing innovation in key economic sectors
• Innovation for sustainable health and wellbeing
• Inclusive innovation, education and development (gender, youth, disability)

Ways to Participate:

1. Paper Presenter

Submit original, unpublished papers (max 8,000 words) aligned to conference sub-themes
2. Thematic Session Organiser

Submit concept notes for special sessions
3. Poster Presenter

Submit a one-page overview of your poster presentation
4. Day Delegate

Attend full conference; open to policymakers, researchers, and practitionersCall for Abstracts Now Open!

Important Dates:

• Abstract collection opens: 24 November 2025
• Conference registration opens: 2 February 2026
• Paper submission deadline: 31 May 2026
• Poster submission deadline: 1 July 2026
• Conference registration deadline: 15 October 2026

Submit your work on or before the above deadlines (max 8,000 words)

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• Call for papers