A Defining Moment for YORA

March marked an exciting step forward for Year of Return Africa (YORA) as preparations intensified for the upcoming YORA Summit Expo & Awards 2026, set to take place in Kilifi, Kenya later this year. With a growing network of innovators, investors, policymakers, and creatives, YORA continues to build meaningful connections between Africa and the global diaspora, creating real opportunities for collaboration and economic transformation.

Innovating Africa’s Future: Capital, Technology, Creativity & Global Impact

The summit will spotlight emerging industries, digital transformation, and creative sectors shaping Africa’s economic future. It will also recognize outstanding individuals and organizations driving innovation and development across the continent.

As part of its commitment to strengthening Africa’s investment ecosystem, YORA is advancing the YORA Dealroom — powered by Velotrum, its capital infrastructure designed to move beyond conversations into real transactions.

The YORA Dealroom connects African enterprises with global investors through a structured, intelligent pipeline that supports businesses at every stage, from early traction startups to institutional-grade opportunities. On the other side, investors gain access to curated, transparent, and de-risked ventures across the continent, all within one controlled environment.

To accelerate participation and unlock access, Velotrum is sponsoring a limited number of Dealroom accounts for select SMEs. These sponsored slots are allocated through an application process, giving high-potential businesses the opportunity to enter the investment pipeline, position themselves for capital, and engage directly with investors within the YORA ecosystem.

Expanding Access to Kilifi

Accessibility to Kilifi continues to improve with the introduction of direct flights to Vipingo Ridge by Skyward Express.
This development marks an important milestone for regional connectivity and will make it easier for both international and local participants to attend YORA events and activities.
Improved access is expected to play a key role in supporting tourism, business engagement, and global participation in the YORA Summit.

As part of ongoing engagement efforts, YORA hosted and participated in several key activities this month:

Building Africa’s Next Generation of Leaders

This year welcomes a new cohort in the NextGen Leadership Program, a ten-month initiative designed to equip emerging professionals with practical experience in research, policy, marketing, partnerships, and event strategy.

Participants will contribute to thought leadership and operational delivery leading up to the YORA Summit, while gaining valuable exposure within an international innovation ecosystem.

The program reflects YORA’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of African leaders and changemakers.

Looking Ahead

As the year progresses, YORA will continue to host masterclasses, strategic dialogues, and collaborative initiatives that support entrepreneurship, innovation, and the creative economy across Africa.

With strong partnerships, growing global interest, and an ambitious vision for the continent, the coming months promise to be both dynamic and transformative.