Themes and Tracks
The 2026 ICT4D Conference brings practitioners together to explore three interconnected themes and a dedicated track on hands-on learning. Each theme is designed to spark cross-sector conversations, ensuring that practitioners, donors, private sector actors, and policymakers leave with actionable insights and new collaborations.
Data: Charting the Future of Data in Development and Humanitarian Response
Data has the power to drive smarter decisions and better outcomes — but it also brings new risks and responsibilities.
In this track, participants will:
- Examine the opportunities and pitfalls of AI in development and humanitarian work.
- Discuss the imperatives of data sharing, integration, and interoperability across organizations.
- Explore the power dynamics in data collection and use, ensuring ethical, inclusive approaches.
- Consider how to safeguard critical data sources and services amid disruption and rapid change.
Why it matters: Effective, ethical use of data is essential for reaching those most in need and ensuring accountability in fragile and fast-moving contexts.
Future: Shaping Tomorrow — Building Equitable and Sustainable Digital Futures
The development sector is in flux, with funding structures, priorities, and leadership models shifting dramatically.
This track explores:
- The future of digital localization — putting local actors and institutions at the center.
- The role of young people in driving digital transformation, both as users and innovators.
- How digital public infrastructure can unlock inclusion and sustainability.
Why it matters: As resources tighten and demands grow, reimagining the future of digital development is critical to building fairer, more resilient systems.
Impact: Delivering on the Sustainable Development Goals in a Fragile World
Global challenges are intensifying — from climate change to food insecurity to public health crises. Digital solutions can help us do more with less.
This theme highlights how digital approaches are enabling progress in:
- Climate resilience and adaptation strategies.
- Strengthening food systems and agricultural productivity.
- Improving health outcomes through digital transformation of health systems.
- Emergency preparedness and response, from geospatial analysis to digital currencies.
Why it matters: When funding shrinks but problems persist, digital transformation is one of the most powerful levers we have to sustain progress toward the SDGs.
Practical Demonstrations & Interactive Learning
True to the ICT4D Conference spirit, this track focuses on peer-to-peer learning and hands-on practice.
Attendees will:
- Join short, practical demonstrations of digital tools and solutions in action.
- Participate in longer workshops designed for skill-building, problem-solving, and co-creation.
- Connect with practitioners who are testing, iterating, and applying solutions in the field.