The Next 3 Billion ON TOUR:
From Global Stage to Regional Action
Following the success of Semafor’s The Next 3 Billion Summit in New York on the sidelines of the 2025 United Nations General Assembly, Semafor and the Gates Foundation are taking the conversation on the road to key markets in Africa and the Middle East.
Request invitations for our four global convenings below.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18 2025 | JOHANNESBURG
The Johannesburg Edition
Live from G20 South Africa
As one of Africa’s most industrialized economies and a G20 member, South Africa plays a pivotal role in advancing digital and financial inclusion across the region. As the second stop on The Next 3 Billion Tour, this reception will explore how the country’s leadership can help scale inclusive solutions across borders — from interoperable digital payments to expanded connectivity.
DECEMBER 2025 | THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
The United Arab Emirates Edition
Live from Abu Dhabi Finance Week
Held on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Finance Week, this gathering will spotlight insights from the Global Findex 2025 report and the Global Digital Connectivity Tracker, translating global research into actionable, locally relevant conversations. We'll bring together policymakers, business leaders, innovators, and civil society to explore how financial inclusion and digital connectivity can unlock the full potential of the next three billion people coming online.
2026 | EAST AFRICA
The East Africa Edition
Held in East Africa, this gathering will spotlight insights from the Global Findex 2025 report and the Global Digital Connectivity Tracker, translating global research into actionable, locally relevant conversations. We'll bring together policymakers, business leaders, innovators, and civil society to explore how financial inclusion and digital connectivity can unlock the full potential of the next three billion people coming online.
Past Events
2026 | NIGERIA
The Abuja Edition
Nigeria’s fast-growing economy, vibrant tech sector, and young population make it a key player in Africa’s digital future. Yet 40% of adults remain outside the formal banking system, with gaps in mobile money adoption, device access, and digital literacy.
As the first stop on The Next 3 Billion Tour, this session will explore how Nigeria’s fintech innovation, evolving regulations, and entrepreneurial energy can drive financial inclusion and open new pathways for equitable growth.