By 
The second edition of GITEX Africa kicks off this week in Marrakech, Morocco, from May 29 to 31, 2024, with over 100 Nigerian tech startups showcasing their innovative solutions and competing for top prizes in various high-profile competitions at the three-day event.
RELATED: GITEX AFRICA 2024 powers cross continental quest for an AI future as region prepares for new digital era
A highlight of the event is the $100,000 prize for the most compelling innovation, along with other prestigious awards such as the Young African CEO award, which also includes a monetary reward.
Nigeria stands as Africa’s startup hub, as evidenced by a 2024 report stating that Nigerian startups secured $4.4 billion out of the $15 billion invested in African startups between 2019 and 2023. The country leads the Big Four in Africa’s startup ecosystem—comprising Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt—and boasts the highest number of Unicorns.
The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), organizers of GITEX Africa, recognizes the significant impact of Nigerian startups in Africa’s tech landscape. Over the past five years, they have strengthened engagement with Nigerian startups through partnerships with local stakeholders and major institutions, including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
At the inaugural GITEX Africa in 2023, about 70 Nigerian startups participated out of the 450 global startups, accounting for nearly 17% of the showcased startups. This year, the DWTC conducted its annual Startup Roadshow in Abuja, Lagos, and Kaduna, offering sponsorship slots to winning startups across Nigeria. Additional sponsorship windows have extended support to over 100 startups through collaborations with accelerators and other stakeholders.
Organizers anticipate a 150% increase in attendance over last year, which saw over 30,000 visitors and attendees, including 900 exhibitors and startups, 250 investors, 250 speakers, and 30 ministerial delegations from 95 countries.
IT Edge News.Africa is a media partner and will be providing live updates for the three days event
