The annual research and education networking conference for UbuntuNet Alliance will take place from 29–30 October 2026 at the Pearl Convention Centre in Lilongwe, Malawi, under the theme “Shaping Digital Horizons.” This year’s conference will be hosted by the Malawi Research and Education Network (MAREN) in partnership with UbuntuNet Alliance, bringing together the research and education community from across Africa and beyond.
UbuntuNet-Connect 2026 comes at a special moment as UbuntuNet Alliance celebrates 20 years of advancing research and education networking in Eastern and Southern Africa. The conference will provide a timely platform to reflect on the progress made over the past two decades, while looking ahead to the digital futures that will shape research, education, innovation, and collaboration across the region.
Shaping Digital Horizons
The 2026 theme, Shaping Digital Horizons, speaks to UbuntuNet Alliance’s vision of advancing resilient, inclusive, and sustainable digital infrastructure that supports research, education, and innovation. The conference will explore how National Research and Education Networks, partners, policymakers, researchers, universities, libraries, and industry can work together to build secure, open, innovative, and future-ready digital ecosystems.
Participants can look forward to high-impact sessions, keynote addresses, panel discussions, paper presentations, exhibitions, and networking opportunities focused on some of the most important areas shaping the research and education sector, including network infrastructure, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, open science, innovation, partnerships, service evolution, diversity, equity, and gender inclusion.
Conference Registration Details
Registration will take place in two phases:
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Early Bird Registration: 1 June – 31 August 2026
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Normal Registration: 1 September – 30 September 2026
You are encouraged to register early and take advantage of the discounted Early Bird rates:
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Participants from African institutions: USD 150
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Participants from the rest of the world: USD 200
Please note that registration is only considered complete once payment has been made and proof of payment is shared via info@ubuntunet.net
UbuntuNet-Connect 2026 offers a unique opportunity to learn from regional and global experts, share experiences, showcase innovations, build strategic partnerships, and connect with leaders in research, education, and technology.
Whether you are part of an NREN, university, research institution, library, government agency, development partner, or private sector organisation, UbuntuNet-Connect 2026 is the place to engage with the people and ideas shaping Africa’s digital research and education future.
Register now and be part of UbuntuNet-Connect 2026 in Lilongwe, Malawi! More info on ubuntunet.net/uc2026
