The 7th African Philanthropy Conference (7APC) has opened a call for abstracts for its 2027 academic programme, inviting scholars, researchers, policymakers and practitioners to explore the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), data governance and digital transformation on philanthropy and development in Africa.
The conference, themed “Philanthropy in the Age of AI and Digital Sovereignty in Africa,” will take place from 27–31 July 2027 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The deadline for abstract submissions is 16 October 2026.
The academic programme seeks original contributions that advance theory, policy and practice while providing new insights into the opportunities and challenges presented by AI and digital transformation for philanthropy and development across the continent.
Submissions can address areas including AI and African agency; data and knowledge justice; digital infrastructure and institutional autonomy; memory and narrative sovereignty; inclusive AI futures; the future of work; trusted digital giving; digital rights and accountability; continental governance and digital sovereignty; and AI ethics and accountable innovation.
The organisers are particularly encouraging interdisciplinary and cross-cutting contributions that examine how Africa can move beyond adapting to digital technologies towards building greater digital agency and sovereignty.
The conference builds on six years of scholarship and dialogue on African philanthropy, including discussions on agenda-setting, systems change and sustainable development financing.
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