Latitude59, Estonia’s flagship startup and technology conference, kicked off its Nairobi edition today, marking the third time the satellite event has been hosted in Kenya.
The forum, which also runs global editions in Singapore and Cape Town, was officially opened by Daniel Schaer, Estonia’s Ambassador-at-Large for African Affairs; Henriette Geigeris, European Union Ambassador to Kenya; and Hon. William Kabogo, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy.
This year’s gathering has drawn an impressive 2,500 participants, including 500 startup representatives and close to 200 investors from 50 countries, underscoring Nairobi’s growing role as a continental hub for innovation and investment.
The 2025 edition centres on accelerating Africa’s innovation momentum through Digital and Green Innovation. The program aims to link African founders with international capital, expertise, and networks, while bringing together policymakers, corporate leaders, and investors to shape solutions for sustainable, inclusive digital transformation.
“We are not only in Kenya; we are building a global village,” said Liisi Org, CEO of Latitude59.
“Coming from Estonia, a country of 1.3 million people, we understand the power of collaboration. The idea of a global village reflects what we in Africa call ubuntu , the understanding that we are all interconnected. Our mission is to bridge ecosystems so that solutions built locally can grow globally.”
In his opening remarks, H.E. Daniel Schaer emphasized Estonia’s long-term commitment to Kenya: “Estonia is in Kenya, and we are here to stay. We are coming to cooperate, co-create, and learn from you.”
Echoing this sentiment, CS William Kabogo Gitau described Latitude59 as a crucial connector of ideas, ecosystems, and capital.
“Latitude59 represents a unique opportunity for Kenya and Estonia to work together through digital partnerships rooted in shared values and practical cooperation. I encourage everyone to explore new connections and imagine possibilities beyond borders,” he said.
Nearly 100 speakers are lined up for the two-day event. Among the standout sessions:
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Taavi Kotka, a central figure in Estonia’s digital transformation, will unpack how the Baltic nation became a global IT and startup powerhouse.
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Dr. Myriam Sidibé, renowned public health and social impact advocate, will discuss how innovation can unlock inclusive and sustainable growth across Africa.
Latitude59 Kenya is delivered in cooperation with ESTDEV through the Digital and Green Innovation (DGI) Programme under the European Union’s D4D Hub Twin Transition Team Europe Initiative.
Additional partners include Civitta, Smart Africa, Belva, KOOD, the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency (EIS), and Fienta.
Latitude59 is the flagship startup and tech platform of Estonia , the world’s first digital nation. Its 13th edition in Tallinn earlier this year attracted 3,500+ participants, 900+ startup representatives, 700 investors, and 170 speakers, drawing attendees from over 70 countries.
