AfriLabs’ Annual Gathering 2024: Uniting Innovation in the Heart of Cape Town
AfriLabs’ Annual Gathering 2024: Uniting Innovation in the Heart of Cape Town Cape Town, South Africa – AfriLabs is proud to announce the much-anticipated Annual Gathering 2024, set to take place from the 5th – 8th of November at Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). Africa has long been a powerhouse of innovation, yet the disconnect among its ingenious thinkers has hindered the full potential of collaborative progress. Recognizing the imperative to bridge this gap under the theme of “Uniting Innovation,” the Annual Gathering 2024 embarks on a mission by creating a central nexus where African innovators, policy makers, investors, startups and thought leaders from all corners of the world can converge and amplify the impact of their ideas. This year’s event promises to be an exhilarating celebration bringing together the brightest minds, dynamic speakers, and visionaries from across the African continent. The gathering serves as a catalyst for inspiring and presenting diverse innovations, and innovation enablers, that have the potential to make a positive impact on a global scale. Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and networking, participants nurture new ideas and existing solutions, partnerships and aspirations for sustainable interventions. The Annual Gathering 2024 will feature a stellar lineup of attendees, including sitting and former heads of states & ministers, pan-African government officials, and representatives from pan-African bodies. The stage will be graced by distinguished speakers and moderators, supported by a team of translators to ensure a seamless exchange of ideas. Among the attendees are CEOs, start-up innovators, and captains of innovation. Exhibitors will showcase cutting-edge innovations, complimented by the infusion of creative talents, adding an artistic flair to the gathering and spearheading conversations that highlight the significant economic impact of the creative sector, which contributes billions of dollars to the African economy. A community of investors with a combined portfolio of over 300 million U.S dollars will be on the lookout for opportunities, making this a prime networking hub for those at the forefront of Africa’s innovation landscape. “Uniting Innovation is not just a theme; It’s a mission for AfriLabs. Our Annual Gathering 2024 embodies the spirit of unity and innovation. Together, we can break barriers and pave the way for a future where African ingenuity knows no limits in solving global challenges and in creating a more prosperous and sustainable future. ” said Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director at AfriLabs. AfriLabs is poised to set the stage for a transformative experience that propels Africa to new heights. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this gathering. Join us in Cape Town from the 5th – 8th of November 2024 as we shape the future of Africa’s inspiring tech and innovation ecosystem. About AfriLabs AfriLabs is the largest network of technology and innovation hubs across Africa, driving the growth of Africa’s innovation ecosystem. With a mission to support the development of the African technology and innovation ecosystem, AfriLabs connects hubs and other stakeholders to facilitate collaboration, resource sharing, and knowledge transfer. For more information about the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024 and AfriLabs, visit www.afrilabsgathering.com and www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
UNFPA FGM Innovation HackLab/ “We Scale” FGM HackLab
UNFPA FGM Innovation HackLab/ “We Scale” FGM HackLab UNFPA East and Southern Africa Regional Office (ESARO) in partnership with the UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and the Spotlight Initiative Africa Regional Programme (SIARP) launched the FGM InnovationHackLab Initiative which aims to involve African young people and African youth organizations in finding innovative solutions to end FGM. The initiative aims to build an Africa where every young woman and girl can exercise her right to bodily autonomy. Learn More
Intel and AfriLabs Join Forces to Propel African DeepTech Ecosystem: Intel AI Programme Takes Center Stage in Nigeria.
Intel and AfriLabs Join Forces to Propel African DeepTech Ecosystem: Intel AI Programme Takes Center Stage in Nigeria. AfriLabs, the largest network of technology and innovation hubs across Africa, is proud to announce its collaboration with Intel to host the Intel AI event for African DeepTech Startups & Ecosystem Stakeholders. Scheduled to take place from the 5th to the 7th of March 2024, from 9:30 AM to 13:00 PM, this three-day event at Fraser Suites, Abuja, Nigeria, is set to fuel innovation and collaboration across the continent. With a mission to empower and equip Nigeria’s deep tech hubs, startups, and developers, the Intel AI Programme is more than just an event; it acts as a spur for change. The event will feature a series of insightful talks and panel discussions on the Challenges and Opportunities of DeepTech in Nigeria, an Introduction to the Intel Liftoff for Startups Program, Intel OneAPI initiative & Introduction to AI Tools at Intel, and an open exchange on how to build a startup community program. The sessions have been curated to arm participants with the essential skills, resources, and insights needed to thrive in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director at AfriLabs, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are excited to partner with Intel to drive forward the African DeepTech ecosystem. This event represents a significant opportunity to empower Nigeria’s deep tech hubs, startups, and developers, fostering growth and innovation in the region.” “Through our collaboration with AfriLabs, Intel is proud to ignite the African DeepTech ecosystem by providing expertise and training, development resources, and important networking opportunities. This partnership represents our commitment to empowering and equipping Nigerian DeepTech innovators with the resources and skills they need to succeed in the current landscape. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for technology innovation in the region,” said Dr. Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo, Director of Government Affairs Africa and IGA CTO Liaison. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this event, the Intel AI Programme for African Deep-Tech Startups & Ecosystem Stakeholders promises an exceptional opportunity to connect, collaborate, and co-create the future of technology in Africa. Apply now before submissions end on the 20th of February. About AfriLabs AfriLabs is the largest network of technology and innovation hubs across Africa, driving the growth of Africa’s innovation ecosystem. With a mission to support the development of the African technology and innovation ecosystem, AfriLabs connects hubs and other stakeholders to facilitate collaboration, resource sharing, and knowledge transfer. To learn more about the program and AfriLabs participation contact Jonathan on jonathan@afrilabs.com. For general information about AfriLabs visit www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
Empowering Africa’s Innovation Ecosystem through AfriLabs Connect
Empowering Africa’s Innovation Ecosystem through AfriLabs Connect In the dynamic landscape of African innovation, AfriLabs Connect emerges as a pivotal force, fostering a sense of community and belonging among key stakeholders. This innovative platform, an initiative of AfriLabs, the continent’s premier network of innovation enablers, is igniting transformative change across the ecosystem. AfriLabs Connect serves as a vibrant hub where tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across the continent converge to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and catalyze growth. By seamlessly connecting individuals, startups, corporate entities, academic institutions, and even governments, AfriLabs Connect is revolutionizing the way collaboration happens in the innovation space. Members of AfriLabs Connect enjoy a plethora of benefits designed to propel their professional journeys forward. From networking opportunities with industry trailblazers to inspirational sessions and access to cutting-edge resources, the platform is a catalyst for innovation and progress. One of AfriLabs Connect’s impacts lies in its ability to nurture a profound sense of belonging among its members. In a world where isolation and disconnection threaten productivity and well-being, AfriLabs Connect provides a welcoming and inclusive space where individuals can thrive. Through shared experiences, collaborative endeavours, and a shared vision for the future, participants find not only professional fulfilment but also a true sense of community. The ripple effects of AfriLabs Connect extend far beyond its digital borders. By fostering collaboration and cooperation among diverse stakeholders, the platform is driving tangible change and propelling Africa’s innovation ecosystem to new heights. Join AfriLabs Connect today and be part of a movement that is reshaping the future of innovation in Africa. Together, we can unlock the continent’s boundless potential and build a brighter tomorrow for generations to come. Join AfriLabs Connect
The State of Fintech in Africa: The Role of Education and the 10×1000 Tech for Inclusions Initiative.
The State of Fintech in Africa: The Role of Education and the 10×1000 Tech for Inclusions Initiative. The African continent is witnessing an unprecedented surge in fintech innovation. This growth is driven by a combination of factors, including increased internet penetration, a young and tech-savvy population, and a pressing need for financial inclusion solutions. However, the sustainability of this burgeoning industry hinges on one crucial element: education. Education, particularly in the field of technology and finance, plays a pivotal role in fostering a sustainable fintech ecosystem. It equips individuals with the necessary skills to navigate, innovate, and lead in the fintech space. Knowledge, in this context, is not just about understanding the latest technologies but also about grasping the intricacies of the financial sector, regulatory frameworks, and the unique challenges and opportunities present in the African market. Introducing 10×1000 Tech for Inclusion Recognizing the importance of education in building a robust fintech industry, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Ant Group launched the 10×1000 Tech for Inclusion program in 2018. This philanthropic initiative aims to nurture and inspire 1,000 emerging talents and tech leaders each year for the next ten years. 10×1000 is an open and global fintech learning platform that enables learners to become drivers of digital economic growth. The program offers a crash course in fintech foundations for practitioners, covering topics such as the technology that makes fintech possible, best practices in product thinking, how to scale your business, and the relationship between digitalization and inclusion. The Fintech Foundation Program Flex is exclusive to professionals with at least 3 years of working experience, referred by 10×1000 alumni or its global partner network. In Africa, AfriLabs serves as a partner for the 10×1000 initiative. We are therefore calling upon Africans to enroll on the platform and access this free information. The program is completely free and fully online, making it accessible to individuals across the continent. Enroll now on the platform using the case-sensitive code “aflt4i”. Acceptance into the program is solely at the discretion of the 10×1000 team. The 10×1000 Tech for Inclusion program represents a significant stride towards building a sustainable fintech industry in Africa. By emphasizing education and offering accessible learning opportunities, the initiative is empowering individuals to contribute to the digital economic growth of the continent. As more Africans enroll and benefit from this program, the future of fintech in Africa looks promising.
Nurturing Youth Voices in the Digital Era for a Sustainable Future
Nurturing Youth Voices in the Digital Era for a Sustainable Future AfriLabs, a key player in fostering innovation throughout Africa, engaged in the 1st Digital Cooperation Organization’s (DCO) International Digital Youth Dialogue during its 3rd General Assembly in 2024. The event, held in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, on January 30, 2024, themed “Youth Voices in the Digital Era: Building a Sustainable Future,” served as a rallying cry for youth engagement in crafting a thriving and sustainable digital economy. Spearheaded by DCO in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications Kingdom of Bahrain, the event, nested within the larger framework of DCO’s 3rd General Assembly, provided a global platform with a primary focus on fostering conversations on the pivotal role of youth in steering development of the digital economy, propelling innovation, fueling economic growth, and ensuring the enduring sustainability of our digital landscape. The event further provided a platform for knowledge sharing, finding solutions to challenges, discussing the role of the stakeholders and fostering an environment for networking and collaboration. In the realm of digital evolution, the youth, as digital natives, wield a pivotal role in shaping the digital economy. However, they grapple with multifaceted challenges, ranging from a digital skills gap and restricted access to technology to educational disparities, economic inequality, job insecurity, cybersecurity threats, mental health repercussions, global competition, privacy concerns, and a lack of mentorship. These challenges underscore the imperative for concerted efforts from governments, educational institutions, and businesses to empower and bolster the youth in realizing their full potential within the digital era. Under the youth track, AfriLabs’ Executive Director, Anna Ekeledo participated in the program as a moderator for the session “Youth Voices in the Digital Era: Building a Sustainable Future.” The track comprised workshops focusing on understanding the digital landscape and empowering youth for a sustainable digital future. The discussions were focused on the challenges and barriers the youth participating in the digital economy face and suggested solutions for overcoming them to build a sustainable inclusive digital future. The workshop yielded significant outcomes, encompassing a thorough compilation of challenges impeding youth in the digital economy, an extensive catalog of solutions aimed at fostering a sustainable digital future, and the adoption of a declaration by the youth, titled “Global Youth Call to Action on Building a Sustainable Digital Future.” The latter is scheduled for release later this week. AfriLabs is committed to supporting initiatives that empower the youth, foster innovation, and ultimately contribute to a sustainable and inclusive digital future for Africa and beyond. For more information about our participation, please contact Peter Ekanem at peter@afrilabs.com. Join AfriLabs Connect today via www.africonnect.net and connect with the largest community of innovation enablers in Africa.
AfriLabs Collaborates with Leading Hubs for the Talent4Startups Program – Changing the Face of Employment In Africa
AfriLabs Collaborates with Leading Hubs for the Talent4Startups Program – Changing the Face of Employment In Africa AfriLabs, at the forefront of driving innovation in Africa, is excited to announce its collaboration with TechQuest STEM Academy Nigeria, Ibiz Incubation Centre Kenya, Icealex Egypt, Activspaces Cameroon, and Dream Factory South Africa for the Talent4Startups program. It is an integrated program developed and founded by Digital Africa meeting the needs of African early stage startups to recruit qualified talent, while offering training and then employment opportunities to young people benefiting from dedicated scholarships. AfriLabs, along with its partners, aims to train 200 youths in five African countries, representing each region of the continent. Notably, 40% of these aspiring youths will be women, highlighting our commitment to fostering gender inclusivity and diversity. This comprehensive training will equip participants with the skills necessary to secure positions in startups across Africa and enhance their professional capacity. The five vibrant African countries the programme is poised to be implemented in are; Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Kenya and Cameroon all of which are in urgent need of employment training programs according to data on ILO (International Labour Organization). The consortium of incubation centers, comprising TechQuest STEM Academy, Ibiz Incubation Centre, Icealex, Activspaces, and Dream Factory, brings a wealth of experience to the table especially focused on training young talents for employment and providing them with essential skills. The program will span 10 weeks, including 6 weeks of technical training, 2 weeks of hands-on training, and 2 weeks of soft skills development, leading up to a job placement activity on the last day which promises to be nothing short of a launching pad to success. Following the training period, participants will undergo a matching process, connecting them with startups and organizations in need of their newfound skills. “We are excited to be part of this transformative initiative that addresses a critical need in the African startup ecosystem. The Talent4Startups program aligns with AfriLabs’ commitment to fostering innovation and empowering the next generation of tech leaders across the continent,” said Nanko Madu, Director of Programmes at AfriLabs. The stage is set, and applications for the Talent4startups program are now open! We are inviting individuals from across Africa to seize this opportunity— apply now at Talent4startups before submissions end on the 25th of February. Visit Talent4startups to learn more about the program or contact Funmilayo on funmilayo@afrilabs.com. For general information about AfriLabs please visit www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
AfriLabs Revolutionizes Investment Landscape with the Launch of AfriLabs Connect Deal Room
AfriLabs Revolutionizes Investment Landscape with the Launch of AfriLabs Connect Deal Room AfriLabs, the pioneering force in Africa’s innovation ecosystem, unveiled the AfriLabs Connect Deal Room (ACDR) during the 2023 Annual Gathering event. The ACDR addresses the critical challenges of identifying, funding and accessing investible startups in Africa. The primary mission of ACDR is to streamline financing for innovative startups across diverse sectors in Africa while providing investment funds access to a Pan-African pipeline of investible and de-risked startups. AfriLabs’ Chief Operating Officer, Ajibola Odukoya, inaugurated this strategic initiative, signaling a pivotal moment for the continent’s innovation landscape. Promoting a dynamic investment ecosystem, funds and investors can register their portfolio startups into a private pool through the Deal Room. This pool makes it easier to match companies precisely based on factors like ticket sizes, sector of interest, and detailed specifications using AI. Additionally, AfriLabs’ vast network of over 500 physical innovation and technology hubs spread across 54 countries and over 250 cities, facilitates the provision of follow-up support for ACDR’s effort by fostering Pan-African collaboration and offering additional investment readiness resources to the startup founders involved in the initiative. Global venture capital networks such as Renew Capital, International Accelerators, Neterra Capital and business support tools and services such as Silicon Valley in Your Pocket are pioneer partners in the AfriLabs Connect Deal Room (ACDR). Ajibola Odukoya, Chief Operating Officer of AfriLabs, highlighted ACDR’s strategic focus, stating, “AfriLabs Connect Deal Room (ACDR) is targeted at hubs with mature startups aiming to scale with sizable PreSeries, Series A, B, and C type of funds. We’ve lined up an investor pipeline that has Africa in mind. These investors are adapting their business processes to the continent, and they are ready to work with startups looking to scale up.” The ACDR will operate on AfriLabs Connect, a purpose-built ecosystem engagement platform that assembles Africa’s largest community of innovation enablers. This initiative marks a transformative step towards propelling Africa’s startup ecosystem to new heights, reinforcing AfriLabs’ commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth across the continent. For more information about the AfriLabs Connect Deal Room and AfriLabs, visit AfriLabs Connect Deal Room and www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
AfriLabs Admits New Board Members to Steer Technology and Innovation throughout the African continent
AfriLabs Admits New Board Members to Steer Technology and Innovation throughout the African continent AfriLabs, the largest pan-African network of technology and innovation hubs, is thrilled to announce the addition of esteemed technology and innovation professionals to its board. This followed the successful Annual General Meeting held on the 11th of October, 2023 in Kigali, Rwanda. Moetaz Helmy, the co-founder of KMT, Egypt, has been re-elected as the Board Chair. With a decade of dedication to leveraging entrepreneurship and innovation for Africa’s economic development, Moetaz is poised to collaborate with governments, multilateral organizations, and corporations that share a similar vision, committed to unlocking impactful and profitable business opportunities. Steve Tchoumba, the Executive Director of ActivSpaces Cameroon, has been re-elected as the Board Secretary, transitioning from his previous role as the Board Treasurer. Steve brings a wealth of experience in HR Consulting, Sales, Marketing, Training, and Education, showcasing his strong business development prowess. Joining them is the distinguished entrepreneur and innovation enthusiast Jeremy Riro, the founder and innovation lead at Fie_Labs Innovation Hub, Kenya. Jeremy is recognized for his expertise in entrepreneurship, economic development, and structural transformation in Africa. He specializes in supporting businesses to raise capital, optimize capital structures, and manage cash flows. Returning to the board is Dr. Itoro Emembolu, the Director of TechQuest STEM Academy, Nigeria. Dr. Emembolu’s exceptional communication skills have facilitated regional, international, and multi-cultural collaborations, resulting in numerous STEM workshops and 14 publications. Welcoming new perspectives to the board, David Ogiga, co-founder of Sote Hub in Kenya, joins AfriLabs. David is passionate about youth employment, entrepreneurship, and technology, making him a valuable addition to the team. Rene Parker, the CEO of RLabs, a global social enterprise that empowers millions of people across 23 countries through technology, innovation and entrepreneurship has been appointed as AfriLabs new Southern Africa board member. She is also a social impact entrepreneur, a Schwab Foundation Social Innovator of the Year 2022, and a 2019-2021 Africa Netpreneur Prize Judge. Madeline Ileleji, Business Development Manager at Jokkolabs Banju, brings her passion for the African tech and innovation ecosystem to the board as a new member. Ahmed Bastawy, the Managing Director and founder of Icealex, Egypt, is a seasoned innovation consultant and senior programs architect. Ahmed’s expertise in entrepreneurship, impact investment, and social innovation, along with his international experience, will undoubtedly contribute to AfriLabs’ growth. Completing the stellar lineup is Berry Numbi, the Board Chair at Ukamili Digital City. Berry’s skills in leading and overseeing hub strategic and operational activities, including networking, stakeholder management, administration, and incubation programs, make him an invaluable asset to the board. AfriLabs is excited about the depth of experience and breadth of specialization that these accomplished individuals offer. The recently elected board members have the potential to lead AfriLabs to even greater success in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation throughout the African continent. For more information about the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2023 and AfriLabs, visit www.afrilabsgathering.com and www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
African youth-led innovations secure funding to transform adolescent mental and reproductive health at Youth Connekt Africa Summit 2023
African youth-led innovations secure funding to transform adolescent mental and reproductive health at Youth Connekt Africa Summit 2023 Nairobi, Kenya 11th Dec 2023: AfriLabs, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), participated at the Youth Connekt Africa (YCA) Summit 2023, held from December 8th to 12th in Nairobi, Kenya. The annual summit centered around the theme “Youth Innovating a Borderless African Renaissance” offered a platform for policy discussions, storytelling, networking, and entrepreneur-focused programs, including a marketplace and investor meetings. In pushing for the advocacy on Mental Health and Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (ASRHR), Afrilabs and UNFPA launched a project in July 2024 that seeks to address the interconnected challenges of mental health and ASRHR. Afrilabs organised a pitch competition event at the YCA summit and thus showcasing the two winners and overall outcomes of the hacklab at the Summit. Ten finalists drawn from Malawi, Namibia, Botswana, Eswatini, Mozambique, South Africa, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Rwanda competed for the top prize at the pitch event held on the sidelines of the Youth Connekt Africa Summit 2023. The innovative solutions presented at the Summit stemmed from a 3-day online bootcamp organized by Afrilabs in October. Two Remarkable solutions emerged from young innovators across the continent, proposing novel approaches to positively impact the lives of adolescents and youth in the fields of mental health and reproductive health. A rigorous evaluation process, led by a jury featuring representatives from AfriLabs’ network of experts, culminated in the selection of two winning solutions. These outstanding projects not only secured $20,000 each in scale funding but also earned exclusive business incubation support that will be facilitated by Afrilabs through their extensive network of innovation hubs. Standing at the forefront of empowerment through digital media, Selma Ndasilohenda Iyambo from Namibia claimed the top spot with her groundbreaking youth podcast. Delving into the realms of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and mental health, the podcast also serves as a powerful tool for uplifting young mothers and fostering community impact. On the heels of this achievement, Tilitonse Concept, led by Tapiwa Penama from Malawi, emerged as the second-place winner. Functioning as a comprehensive hub, it empowers the youth residing in Malawi’s Dzaleka camp with valuable insights into mental health and crucial Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (#SRHR) choices. Together, these innovative solutions embody a vision for positive change, demonstrating the transformative potential inherent in forward-thinking initiatives. In closing, the Youth Connekt Africa Summit 2023 has not only been a gathering of minds but a testament to the resilience and creativity of Africa’s youth. Afrilabs, in partnership with UNFPA, has spearheaded initiatives that address critical aspects of adolescent health, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of innovation. The winning solutions, forged through collaboration and determination, pave the way for positive change, echoing the potential of technology and creativity to transform lives. As we reflect on this summit, let it be a reminder that the journey towards a brighter, healthier future is powered by the ingenuity and passion of the continent’s youth, whose ideas continue to shape the trajectory of Africa’s progress. Over the last 2 years of collaboration between AfriLabs and UNFPA over 200k USD has been given to over 9 innovators turned startups to scale their efforts in fighting against harmful practices through establishment of social impact businesses. For more information on our participation at the Youth Connekt Africa Summit 2023 – Mental Health and ASRHR Hacklab Final Pitching please contact baluku(@)afrilabs.com.