The stage is set, the atmosphere is electric, and Nairobi is ready as Africa’s business leaders, investors, innovators and sports industry stakeholders converge for the highly anticipated Year of Return Africa (YORA) Summit & Expo 2026.

The two-day continental gathering, scheduled for October 13–14 at Broadwalk Mall, Westlands, Nairobi, brings together influential personalities committed to unlocking Africa’s entrepreneurial potential, strengthening international partnerships and transforming promising ideas into sustainable enterprises.

Under the theme “Fueling the Future: Unlocking Africa’s Entrepreneurial Potential,” the summit will explore investment, technology, entrepreneurship, creative industries, media, entertainment and the growing commercial opportunities within African sport.

Among the distinguished speakers are David Mullings, Chairman and CEO of Blue Mahoe Capital; Sudi Wandabusi, Board Chairman of the Kenya Film Commission; Charles Ellison, Founder of B|E Strategy; and Emmanuel Audu-Ohwavborua, Chairman of Emmppek Group.

Adding a strong Nigerian presence to the sports business conversations is Jide-Ojo Jide Olusola, Founder and CEO of 247SportsNetwork Limited, publishers of Sports247.ng, and Media Aide to the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeboye Anthony Adeyinka.

With over three decades of media experience, Jide-Ojo is expected to contribute valuable perspectives during the October 14 sports business segment, particularly on transforming African sporting talent into sustainable media properties, commercial opportunities and investment-driven enterprises.

The discussions will examine how African sports organisations can move beyond talent discovery towards ownership of leagues, broadcasting rights, digital platforms, sponsorship assets and intellectual property.

For Nairobi, the summit reinforces the city’s position as a destination for continental business engagement, while providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors to forge meaningful connections.

Following the Nairobi programme, YORA activities are scheduled to continue in Kilifi, Kenya, from October 16–17.

As the summit opens, one message resonates across the continent: Africa must not only produce world-class talent but also build and own the businesses that transform that talent into lasting prosperity.