Delegates from over 17 countries at AITCO 2026 in Nairobi – a tradition of global connection
By Nebought Kalwila, Technology Committee Chairperson (EAITA)
For the East Africa Interpreters and Translators Association (EAITA), each Africa International Translation Conference (AITCO) represents more than an annual gathering; it is proof that language professionals across continents can come together, share knowledge and build a truly borderless community.
The 6th Africa International Translation Conference (AITCO 2026) held on 6 and 7 February 2026 at Villa Rosa Kempinski in Nairobi, Kenya, continued this legacy. Under the theme ‘Reaffirming Human-Centeredness: Localisation, Translation and Interpretation in an AI-Driven World’, the event sparked rich, in-depth dialogue on the future of the profession while celebrating the irreplaceable value of human connection. Delegates from across the globe exchanged ideas and new perspectives and built lasting partnerships. Delegates reaffirmed that the resilience of professionals in the industry is not only about skills, but also about wellbeing, dignity, collective voice and professional agency.
AITCO has firmly established itself as an international platform for translators, interpreters, educators and industry leaders. What began as a regional initiative has grown into a global event, attracting participants from across Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas. In the past three consecutive years, each AITCO conference has welcomed delegates from more than 17 countries around the world – a testament to East Africa’s rising profile as a hub for language professionalism and innovation.
Beyond the formal conference programmes, AITCO is defined by the connections it enables. Attendees consistently speak of the warmth of the community – the conversations that stretch into the night, the collaborations born over coffee, and the friendships that span oceans. For many, AITCO is more than a conference; it’s an entry point into a supportive, engaged professional family that extends far beyond the event itself.
Building momentum all year round
EAITA’s work extends well beyond its flagship conference. The association marked International Translation Day 2025 in partnership with Riara University, Nairobi, celebrating the global theme of Translation, Peace and Trust. EAITA President Mr Jonah Ondieki spoke about the urgent need to preserve African vernacular languages: ‘Every language preserved is an asset gained; every language ignored is an irreplaceable loss’.
Online, EAITA’s community thrives. The association’s LinkedIn page and Facebook group have become vibrant spaces for industry dialogue, networking and professional development, keeping members and delegates connected throughout the year.
A Growing Continental Movement
As EAITA looks towards the seventh edition of AITCO, the journey from Kigali to Zanzibar to Nairobi is a testament to what a committed community can build together. Each conference has deepened relationships, sharpened skills and expanded the network of language professionals working to elevate the profession across Africa and beyond.