How 17 tech leaders are thinking about 2026
- 2026 will be the year of consolidation, with well-capitalized African giants acquiring smaller startups.
- Funding will favor companies with real revenue and operational leverage, moving away from vague growth stories.
- AI will become integral to operations, shifting from a buzzword to a core component in various sectors.
The predictions for 2026 reflect a necessary maturation of the African tech ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of fundamentals over hype. This shift could lead to more sustainable business practices and a stronger focus on solving real-world problems, which is crucial for the long-term success of the sector. However, the challenge will be ensuring that innovation continues alongside these stricter financial disciplines.
