Software Quality Assurance
FESTIVAL, 2026
10th-11th April,2026. Nairobi, Kenya
About The Event
SQA Festival 2026 is a premier gathering of Software Quality Assurance professionals, tech leaders, and aspiring testers committed to advancing the culture of quality in software development. Under the theme “Test. Break. Learn. Connect.”, the festival offers expert insights, hands-on learning, and powerful networking opportunities — strengthening Africa’s QA ecosystem and shaping the future of quality engineering.
Where
Nairobi, Kenya
When
Friday and Saturday
10-11 April, 2026
Powered By: KIWAMI TECH SOLUTIONS LTD
Event Speakers
Ikenna Sylvestre Okafor
Senior Software Quality Assurance Engineer and Founder, TestAfriq
June Reeves
Manager, Software Quality AssuranceJubilees Insurance
Jacqueline Kamadi
Senior Software Quality Assurance EngineerEvent Schedule
Playwright Automation Masterclass
SQA Festival 2026 Opening & Welcome
Introduction to the vision of SQA Festival, what participants should expect over the two days, key objectives, and remarks from organizing partners.
Keynote: The Future of Automation & Continuous Testing by Ikenna Sylvestre Okafor
A strategic session on why automation is essential in today’s digital landscape, its role in modern product teams, how it supports continuous testing within CI/CD pipelines for reliable releases, and how QA engineers can stay competitive in an AI-driven world.
Playwright Foundations (Theory)
Introduction to modern test automation architecture, Playwright ecosystem, record vs code approaches, and best practices for scalable frameworks.
Environment Setup
Setup of Playwright environment to ensure everyone is ready for hands-on automation.
UI Automation Practical (Hands-On)
Writing scripts from scratch and building UI tests using Codegen (record mode). Working with locators, assertions, waits, and multi-browser execution.
Time-Boxed Quiz #1
Quick 7-minute challenge covering UI automation concepts to reinforce learning.
Lunch Break
Networking and refreshment break.
API Automation with Playwright
Using Playwright for API testing, validating responses, creating request contexts, and combining UI + API test flows.
Time-Boxed Quiz #2
Short interactive quiz focused on API automation and integration concepts.
CI/CD Integration
Running Playwright tests in pipelines, GitHub Actions demo, reporting, and automation within real-world development workflows.
AI in Test Automation
Leveraging AI tools such as Copilot to generate tests, review pull requests, improve scripts, and accelerate automation development.
Final Quiz Challenge & Recognition
Comprehensive time-boxed quiz covering the full day. Top performers receive ISTQB discounts, interview opportunities, and Automation Engineer recognition.
Security Testing Masterclass, Bug Bash, Awards & Networking
Welcome Session & Company Introductions
Opening remarks and introduction of participating companies presenting their live applications for testing.
Group Formation & Exploratory Testing Kickoff
Participants pick random group assignments and begin structured exploratory testing on real company applications.
Exploratory Testing Session
Teams execute time-boxed testing, document findings, log defects, and collaborate on risk identification.
Snacks & Networking
Refreshment break and opportunity to connect with fellow testers and company representatives.
Lightning Session
Short expert talk on risk-based testing and strategies for handling large or unclear scopes effectively.
Industry Panel Discussion
Discussion with QA leads and engineering managers on “How to test effectively when scope is massive and time is limited.”
Security Testing in Modern Applications
An introduction to practical security testing concepts, including common web vulnerabilities, risk identification, and how AI can assist in automated security checks within QA workflows.
Live Security Testing Demo (Practical Session)
A hands-on demonstration showing how to perform basic security checks, identify vulnerabilities, and integrate security validation into everyday testing processes.
Workshop Retrospective & Submissions
Reflection on Friday’s Playwright workshop and submission of defect reports and automation improvements.
Automation Implementation Contest
Participants present automation implemented from Friday’s session within their company setup. Entries evaluated for impact, structure, and CI/CD integration.
Awards & Closing Ceremony
Winner receives 2 free ISTQB certifications. Runner-up gets 1 voucher. Three participants receive 10% Kiwami scholarship. Official event closing.
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Event Venue
Nairobi, Kenya
Exact location to be shared before event.
Sponsors
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend the Playwright Automation Masterclass?
The masterclass is open to QA professionals, software testers, developers, and students with basic coding knowledge who want hands-on experience in automation using Playwright.
Do I need prior experience with Playwright or automation tools?
No prior Playwright experience is required. We start with foundational theory and guide you through hands-on exercises, covering everything from record/play to code-based automation.
What tools/software do I need to install before attending?
Participants should have a laptop with Node.js installed. Playwright will be installed during registration/setup. Detailed system requirements will be shared upon registration.
Are the quizzes mandatory?
Quizzes are optional but highly encouraged. They are short, time-boxed, and designed to reinforce learning. Top performers are recognized with prizes and career opportunities.
Will I receive a certificate for attending?
Yes! All participants receive a participation certificate. Top performers in quizzes and contests may receive additional recognition such as ISTQB vouchers and “Automation Engineer” awards.
Can I attend only Day One or Day Two?
Yes, you can attend a single day. However, attending both days gives you the full experience — from learning automation (Day One) to applying skills in exploratory testing challenges and industry collaboration (Day Two).
Are there opportunities to network with companies?
Absolutely! Day Two features company apps for testing, panel discussions with QA leads and dev managers, and networking breaks designed for connecting with industry professionals.
What is included in the AI in Automation session?
This session demonstrates how AI tools like GitHub Copilot can help generate test scripts, review automation code, improve PRs, and accelerate test design. Participants can apply these techniques immediately in their workflows.
How competitive are the quizzes and contests?
Quizzes are short and fun, designed to reinforce learning. The Automation Implementation Contest on Day Two is more competitive, rewarding participants who implement Playwright solutions in real-world scenarios.
What should I bring with me?
Laptop, charger, basic coding knowledge, curiosity, and enthusiasm! All other materials (playbooks, test charters, snacks, and workshop guides) will be provided on-site.
Company Participation
Choose how your company wants to engage with SQA Festival 2026 and gain maximum exposure to QA talent and industry professionals.
Showcase Tools
Ksh100,000 / company
- Live demos of your QA tools or platforms
- Booth space and logo placement
- Network with QA professionals and developers
Exploratory Testing
Ksh60,000 / company
- Have your applications tested by attendees
- Receive real-time exploratory bug reports
- Disclaimer: Testing is educational, non-binding, and exploratory only
Talent Engagement
Ksh 20,000 / company
Ksh- Offer internship and talent opportunities to attendees
- Build your employer brand in QA community
- Meet and mentor emerging QA talent
Contact
Have questions about registration, partnerships, sponsorship opportunities, or participation? We’d love to hear from you. Reach out to the SQA Festival 2026 organizing team for more information, collaboration inquiries, or support. Let’s work together to advance the future of Software Quality Engineering.