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The AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024, hosted from November 6-8 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC 2), successfully brought together a diverse network of innovators, thought leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across Africa.
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Marking the 9th edition of this event, the theme “Uniting Innovation” guided discussions across seven key thematic tracks, each highlighting a critical aspect of Africa’s growing innovation landscape. These sessions provided a platform for dialogue, strategic planning, and knowledge-sharing aimed at driving a sustainable and inclusive future for the continent.
In partnership with RLabs, a leading figure in South Africa’s innovation ecosystem, AfriLabs showcased Cape Town’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. The stunning setting and rich cultural backdrop of Cape Town further emphasized the event’s impact on Africa’s innovation sector.
AfriLabs’ Executive Director, Anna Ekeledo, underscored the Gathering’s collaborative spirit, saying, “AfriLabs proudly stands as a Pan-African community. Though we are a tapestry of rich diversity, we are united by a shared purpose: to build a lasting legacy that will shape generations to come.”
Adding to the event’s momentum, Deputy Minister Raesetja Jane Sithole from South Africa’s Ministry of Small Business Development delivered a keynote that highlighted the country’s commitment to inclusive growth. “The future of South Africa’s growth lies in empowering diverse entrepreneurs,” she said, “By reducing red tape and supporting informal and micro-enterprises, we’re ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all, especially youth, women, and people with disabilities.”
Key Highlights from AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024
Creative Digital Economy Track
This track dove into the intersection of creativity and technology, focusing on digital arts, gaming, and content creation. Sessions like “Diaspora to Homeland: Building a Connected Future” and “Independent Filmmaking in the Digital Era” examined the potential of Africa’s creative sector. Esteemed speakers, including Mathew Mensah, Ambassador for Ghana Tourism, and Henry A Stokes, Senior VP of The African Channel, emphasized the global opportunities for African storytelling and the role of digital platforms in empowering the continent’s creative industries.
Policy, Data, and AI Track
A significant discussion point revolved around the role of data and AI in Africa’s development. Policymakers, tech leaders, and AI specialists tackled topics like ethical AI and the cultural alignment in AI design. Panels such as “AI in Africa: Accelerating Africa’s AI Footprint” explored how AI and data strategies can support sustainable growth. Notable speakers included Dr. Rachel Sibande from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Mario Romao, Intel’s Director of AI Policy, alongside representatives from the African Union and the South African government.
Hub Solutions Track
This track explored the essential role of innovation hubs as the foundation of Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape. Discussions on scaling hubs, strategic partnerships, and specialization were led by industry experts like Alfredo Cuanda, Founder of Ideario, and Tomi Davies, Chief Investment Officer at TVC Labs. The track emphasized how hubs can maximize their impact, foster local innovation, and create access to critical resources and mentorship.
Investment Track
Connecting startups and investors, this track delved into Africa’s investment ecosystem and strategies to attract both local and international capital. Sessions covered topics like “Navigating Investment Risks and Returns” and “The Future of Investment: Trends in African & Global Investments.” Key figures, including Tomiwa Aladekomo, CEO of Big Cabal Media, and Julia Price, Co-Founder of Linea Capital, discussed de-risking mechanisms and innovative financing frameworks to support African entrepreneurs.
Gender and Inclusion Track
This track championed the need for greater gender equity and inclusivity in the tech sector. Discussions like “Tech-Enabled Financial Inclusion” and “Inclusive Digital Ecosystems: Women and Disability Participation” highlighted the benefits of a more diverse tech ecosystem. Influential voices, such as Hema Vallabh of Five35 Ventures and Baratang Miya of Girlhype Women Who Code, shared insights on fostering environments that support women and marginalized groups in technology.
Green and Blue Economy Track
Focusing on sustainability, this track explored how green technologies can enhance Africa’s resilience. Sessions like “Harnessing Technology for Resilient Agricultural Eco Parks” and “Collaborative Policies for Environmental Resilience” brought together thought leaders such as Buffy Okeke-Ojiudu, CEO of Zebra Group, and Uche Ekeledo, CEO at Fosu. Discussions centered on leveraging natural resources and advanced tech for sustainable development in agriculture, water management, and trade.
Makerspaces Track
This track addressed how physical innovation spaces are empowering local entrepreneurs and inventors. Discussions on “Sustainable Business Models for Makerspaces” featured insights from Tochukwu Chukwueke, CEO of Clintonel Innovation Centre, and Joseph Agyina, Project Manager at Africa Makerspace Network. The importance of community hubs for prototyping, skills-building, and production was emphasized as a key driver of grassroots innovation.
A Future-Forward Vision for Africa’s Innovation Landscape
As the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024 concluded, it set a clear vision for the future of Africa’s innovation landscape. With a focus on collaboration, resilience, and inclusion, the event reinforced AfriLabs’ role in supporting a Pan-African network of innovation hubs. The insights and partnerships formed during the Gathering pave the way for a stronger, more interconnected African innovation ecosystem that is ready to lead on the global stage.
