AfriLabs at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

AfriLabs at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly AfriLabs at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly As the world convenes in New York for the 2024 United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), AfriLabs will participate in critical discussions on global digital cooperation, sustainable development, and the future of African technology. From September 20th to 27th, our Executive Director, Anna Ekeledo, will represent AfriLabs at high-level events and panel discussions, ensuring that Africa’s voice in innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation is well heard. UNGA is an annual gathering of global leaders, policymakers, and influencers committed to addressing the most pressing challenges of our time. AfriLabs’ presence underscores our dedication to advancing Africa’s innovation ecosystem and fostering meaningful technological progress. Through these dialogues, we seek to strengthen partnerships, advocate for increased investment in African startups, and highlight the vital role of digital solutions in achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). AfriLabs will participate in the Assembly program as follows; Friday, 20th September 2024 Summit of the Future Breakfast: Youth and Digital Compass 8:00 AM – 10:15 AM | Microsoft Office – One Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza, NYC AfriLabs will be present at this exclusive breakfast, where the focus is on empowering youth through digital solutions. As key stakeholders, AfriLabs will contribute to discussions on the future of youth leadership in Africa’s digital economy. Organized by the International Trade Centre (ITC). Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development Annual Fall Meeting 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM | Convene 237 Park Avenue, NYC As a special guest and speaker, Anna Ekeledo will share insights into broadband’s role in scaling Africa’s tech ecosystems. The discussion will center on the transformative impact of internet accessibility and digital inclusion across the continent. Organized by The ITU/UNESCO Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development SDG Digital Welcome Reception and GameChangers Awards Ceremony 6:15 PM – 8:15 PM | United Nations Headquarters, NYC AfriLabs will be a distinguished guest at this reception, honouring global leaders who are driving progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through digital innovation. This gathering is a celebration of those using technology to tackle climate change, inequality, and poverty, aligning with AfriLabs’ mission, organized by SDG Digital. Saturday, 21st September 2024 SDG Digital: A Digital Future for All 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM | ECOSOC Chamber, United Nations, NYC AfriLabs will join global tech leaders to explore the future of digital transformation for sustainable development. Africa’s role in shaping this future will be a key point of discussion, especially in advancing the SDGs through tech-driven solutions. Session organized by SDG Digital. Digital Cooperation Organisation High-Level Reception 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM | The Pierre, Taj Hotel, NYC AfriLabs will attend this high-level reception to foster partnerships with global digital leaders. This event will be critical in advancing multilateral digital cooperation, with Anna Ekeledo advocating for stronger collaborations that benefit Africa’s startups and tech entrepreneurs. Organized by the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO). Fostering Multi-stakeholder Global Digital Cooperation for Prosperity 4:00 PM – 5:17 PM | UN Headquarters, NYC Anna will take the stage as a panelist for the discussion on new multi-stakeholder models for digital cooperation. The session will explore innovative ways for public and private sectors to collaborate, with a special focus on Africa’s growing digital ecosystem. This event is organized by the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), where AfriLabs holds observer status membership. DCO is dedicated to fostering global digital cooperation to drive inclusive growth in the digital economy. Sunday, 22nd September 2024 The Future of U.S. Global Development 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | 315 W 35th St, NYC AfriLabs will join key discussions as a guest, exploring the role of the U.S. in global development. The conversation will touch on investment in African startups and the importance of cross-continental partnerships. The session is organized by Unlock Aid and One Campaign. Monday, 23rd September 2024 Open Source AI & Improving Global Language Access 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Ivy Terrace, NYC As a guest, AfriLabs will explore how AI can revolutionize language access globally, particularly in African countries with diverse linguistic backgrounds. The conversation will be crucial in shaping AI policies that ensure inclusivity and diversity. This event is organized by Meta, with Anna attending as a guest. It’s also worth noting our recent partnership with Meta, which focuses on supporting AI innovators across Africa. Through this collaboration, we aim to provide resources, mentorship, and platforms for African AI startups, fostering innovation that addresses local challenges while contributing to global advancements in AI technology. Tuesday, 24th September 2024 African Business Stories Roundtable: Funding the Gap – Strategies for African Female Entrepreneurs 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM | Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, NYC Anna will play a pivotal role as a speaker at the roundtable, highlighting collaboration and partnership strategies to accelerate growth for female entrepreneurs across Africa. Bridging the funding gap and empowering women in tech are central themes. The session is organized by African Business Stories. The Next 3 Billion Summit: Unlocking the Biggest Social and Economic Opportunity of Our Time 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, New York, 2 E 61st St, New York, NY 10065, USA AfriLabs will participate as a guest at this summit, which is organized by Semafor. The event will explore how the next 3 billion internet users, primarily from emerging markets, represent a significant social and economic opportunity. AfriLabs’ involvement will provide an opportunity to engage with global thought leaders on how Africa’s tech ecosystem can play a pivotal role in unlocking this opportunity by driving innovation, digital inclusion, and economic growth across the continent. Destination 2030 – Nigeria Everywhere @UNGA 6:00 PM | Bathhouse Studios 538 E 11th St New York, NY 10009 Hosted by Destination 2030 – Nigeria Everywhere, an Initiative by Federal Ministry of Arts Culture & Creative Economy, Anna will participate as a guest at this event, which is a Cultural Experience designed to celebrate and showcase the rich and diverse creative industries of Nigeria. This event will highlight various aspects of

Is AI A Threat To Skilled Education?

Is AI A Threat To Skilled Education? The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has led many to question the future of education, especially the value of skilled labor – it’s economic value proposition. For generations, expertise and the time it took to acquire such skills were the cornerstones of economic stability. The path from education to career progression was carefully crafted, as the flow of market entry and retirement allowed room for new recruits, while experienced professionals paved the way. But with AI now able to perform tasks once considered exclusive to humans, is there still a need for skilled education?   Before AI, skills were highly valued because they required years of specialized training and mastery. The structure of industries, from engineering to creative writing, revolved around this. However, the world is rapidly moving toward automation, and AI is beginning to dominate fields that were once believed to be safe from technological disruption. Complex disciplines like engineering, law, medicine, and even creative writing, which required critical thinking and emotional intelligence, are now being tackled by AI systems. What was once thought impossible is now becoming reality.   AI systems don’t require breaks, retirement, or downtime, and as automation continues to evolve, tasks that once demanded human expertise will be handled by these independent agents. Even the notion that directing or managing AI would remain a human stronghold is slowly eroding. With self-learning algorithms and the ability to act as independently functioning entities, AI could one day manage itself better than any human could.    This fear of a future where labor prices crash due to an overabundance of skill, caused by AI, is one of the driving factors behind proposals for Universal Basic Income (UBI) by individuals like Sam Altman. The concern is that as AI increasingly handles high-skill tasks, humans may find themselves unable to compete in a job market dominated by machines capable of learning and adapting from vast, networked datasets.    To visualize this future, imagine a mathematician competing against a calculator in a simple multiplication test. The calculator, which doesn’t need to be perfect but only better than the average human, would win effortlessly. This is the scenario experts fear across numerous industries. It’s worth noting that since 1997, when IBM’s Deep Blue defeated world chess champion Garry Kasparov, no human has beaten AI in chess. The point is, it doesn’t take perfection—just an edge over the average human worker—to disrupt an entire field.   Ironically, many African parents in the Baby Boomer generation urged their Millennial children to pursue high-skill degrees, viewing them as guarantees of career security. Yet, in their lifetime, we are witnessing accountants, engineers, and even medical professionals facing greater existential risk than blue-collar trades like plumbing.    As AI’s capabilities continue to expand, the debate over the future of education and skilled labor becomes more urgent. What will the future of work look like? What role will human skill play in a world where AI can outperform us in both logical and creative tasks?    To explore this topic from the foundations, join our Candid Conversations and engage with experts and futurists on the subject of education in an AI-driven world on X. Click to Register

Uniting Innovation: The Future of Africa’s Tech Landscape

Uniting Innovation: The Future of Africa’s Tech Landscape As Africa’s tech ecosystem continues to evolve, the need for unity and collaboration has never been more pressing. The AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024, which will take place from November 5th to 8th, 2024, under the theme “Uniting Innovation,” promises to bring together innovators, policymakers, and industry experts to shape the future of Africa’s tech landscape. According to a joint report by Google and the International Finance Corporation titled “e-Conomy Africa 2020”, the internet economy in Africa is projected to reach $180 billion by 2025, accounting for 5.2% of the continent’s GDP. This growth is driven by increased internet access, urbanization trends, and a vibrant startup ecosystem (IFC).  At this year’s AfriLabs Annual Gathering (AAG), AI emerges as a pivotal theme. AI has the potential to dramatically enhance these projections. McKinsey & Company estimates that AI could boost Africa’s GDP by up to $1.2 trillion by 2030. Already, AI applications in healthcare, finance, and other sectors are demonstrating significant impacts, from improving diagnostic accuracy to enhancing financial inclusion. Discussions at AAG 2024 will focus on strategies to harness AI’s transformative power, aiming to accelerate economic growth and foster sustainable development across the continent (McKinsey & Company). Another critical track is sustainability, a theme that resonates deeply in Africa, where the impact of climate change is already being felt. Innovators and policymakers will come together to discuss how technology can be used to drive sustainable development and build resilient economies. For instance, renewable energy sources like solar and wind power have the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 70% in Africa, according to the United Nations. The future of work is another area of focus, as Africa grapples with the challenges of unemployment and skills development. The conversation at AfriLabs will center around how innovation and technology can create new opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. The African Development Bank estimates that digital technology could create up to 230 million jobs in Africa by 2030, with a significant portion of the workforce engaged in the gig economy (Global Institute). Healthtech, fintech, and edtech are also on the agenda, as Africa’s innovators showcase solutions that are revolutionizing healthcare, finance, and education. For example, mobile health (mHealth) solutions have improved healthcare outcomes in Africa, with a study by the World Health Organization showing that mHealth interventions have increased vaccination rates by up to 20% in some countries. Beyond technology, the AfriLabs Annual Gathering emphasizes unity and collaboration. It seeks to unite diverse perspectives to drive innovation and sustainable development in Africa’s evolving tech ecosystem. Join us at the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024 and be part of the conversation that will shape the future of Africa’s tech landscape.

The Imperative of AI Infrastructure Investment for Africa’s Digital Future

The Imperative of AI Infrastructure Investment for Africa’s Digital Future As we approach a new era powered by artificial intelligence (AI), the need for strong internet infrastructure in Africa has never been more important. The AI Startups Mapping in Africa report by AfriLabs, funded by the Gates Foundation provides a sobering but positive assessment of the continent’s AI readiness, with an average index of 26.91. This figure, which is far below the halfway point, emphasizes the vital need for further efforts and expenditures to boost AI activity across the continent.   Bridging the AI Readiness Gap   Despite Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, and Tunisia leading with index values above 40, none have achieved 50. This suggests that even the most advanced African countries are still in the early phases of AI development. Without substantial improvements in digital infrastructure, Africa risks falling further behind in the global AI race.   The surge in AI applications necessitates an increase in high-performance computing (HPC) capabilities, such as GPUs and TPUs. These components are essential for developing and deploying complex AI models that rely on massive datasets and intricate computations. Over the past decade, global investments in digital infrastructure have soared, driven by factors like smartphone penetration and the rise of cloud computing. However, Africa must ramp up these investments to meet the evolving demands of AI.   The Role of Digital Infrastructure   Effective AI infrastructure is multifaceted, encompassing hardware and software elements that provide a broad range of capabilities. From data storage and cloud computing to robust communication networks and secure power connections, each component is crucial for unlocking AI’s full potential. For Africa, building this infrastructure is not just about technology; it’s about creating a foundation for innovation and socioeconomic development.   Several initiatives are already underway, African countries are adopting digital strategies aimed at fostering an environment conducive to digitalization. Tech giants such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft are investing in African data centers, rapidly expanding the continent’s hosting capacity. For instance, the establishment of the Tanzania National Internet Data Center (NIDC) exemplifies how government and private sector collaboration can enhance AI capabilities. By providing scalable storage and AI services, the NIDC is helping Tanzanian entities to leverage AI without the need to develop services from scratch.   Specialization in AI Subfields   African AI startups are showing remarkable focus in various AI subfields, which is crucial for addressing the continent’s unique challenges. The report highlights that 30% of AI startups in Africa specialize in Machine Learning, followed by Deep Learning (17%), Natural Language Processing (15%), Computer Vision (12%), Generative AI (10%), Reinforcement Learning (9%), and Robotics (7%). This specialization is pivotal for driving innovation in sectors like healthcare, finance, and agriculture, where AI can significantly improve outcomes.   However, the growth in AI subfields also brings to light the urgent need for better infrastructure. As AI algorithms become more complex, the demand for computational power increases. Without the necessary digital backbone, these startups may struggle to scale their solutions and achieve their full potential.   The Path Forward   Africa’s digital infrastructure development requires a concerted effort to enhance digital infrastructure. This means investing in state-of-the-art data centers, expanding cloud computing capabilities, and ensuring reliable and fast communication networks. For instance, Tanzania’s licensing of public data centers from the private sector reflects a positive trend, but it must be scaled up to meet the high computing demands brought by AI.   Governments across Africa must prioritize creating a safe and secure foundation for AI development. This involves not only building the physical infrastructure but also implementing policies that promote innovation, protect data privacy, and ensure cybersecurity. By doing so, Africa can create an ecosystem where AI can thrive, driving socioeconomic development and positioning the continent as a significant player in the global AI landscape.   The future of AI in Africa holds immense promise, but realizing this potential hinges on the continent’s ability to build and sustain robust digital infrastructure. The AI Startups Mapping in Africa report serves as a clarion call for action. By addressing the current gaps and investing strategically in AI infrastructure, Africa can unlock unparalleled opportunities for innovation and development, ensuring that it does not just participate in the AI revolution but leads it.   In the words of many experts, the time to act is now. The benefits of AI are too significant to be overlooked, and the costs of inaction are too high. Africa’s digital future depends on the steps we take today to build a foundation that can support the technologies of tomorrow.   📖 Read more in our report: bit.ly/AI-Report-2 

Intel AI Programme Propels African DeepTech Ecosystem Forward: A Collaborative Success

Intel AI Programme Propels African DeepTech Ecosystem Forward: A Collaborative Success The Fraser Suites in Abuja, Nigeria, witnessed an exciting convergence of Africa’s brightest minds and innovative spirit as Intel and AfriLabs successfully concluded the Intel AI Programme for African DeepTech Startups & Ecosystem Stakeholders. From March 5th to 7th, 2024, attendees immersed themselves in a three-day journey of enlightenment, collaboration, and empowerment.   The event, organized by AfriLabs in collaboration with Intel, aimed to propel growth and innovation in Nigeria’s DeepTech ecosystem. Participants from diverse backgrounds including government officials, industry experts, startups, developers, and ecosystem stakeholders convened to explore the challenges, opportunities, and prospects of DeepTech in Africa.   The event commenced with opening remarks from esteemed government officials and representatives from Intel and AfriLabs. Dr. Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo, Director of Government Affairs Africa and IGA CTO Liaison at Intel set the stage with an insightful presentation on the socio-economic and policy implications of DeepTech in Africa. This was followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring high-level representatives from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Intel, and other industry partners, moderated by Jennifer Okeke-Ojiudu, Senior Ecosystem Engagements Manager at AfriLabs. The session provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the DeepTech ecosystem in Africa. Finally, day one culminated with a High-Level Roundtable Discussion on AI Policy, facilitated by Dr. Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo of Intel, engaging the Director-General of the National Centre for Technology Management, other Government Officials and AI Ecosystem Stakeholders. Day two of the event focused on empowering startups, developers, and innovation hubs with the tools and resources needed to thrive in the AI landscape. Highlights included an introduction to the Intel® Liftoff for AI Startups Program, presentations on the Intel Developer Cloud and OneAPI initiative, and valuable lessons learned from industry experts. The day concluded with presentations from leading innovation hubs, further enriching the discourse on DeepTech entrepreneurship and innovation in Nigeria.   The final day of the event centered on building vibrant startup communities and fostering collaboration among ecosystem stakeholders. Keynote addresses by notable figures such as Ajibola Odukoya, Chief Operating Officer at AfriLabs, and Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of NITDA, set the tone for engaging discussions on the role of government in driving innovation in Africa. Presentations from various innovation hubs underscored the importance of community-building and collaboration in nurturing Africa’s burgeoning DeepTech ecosystem. Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of NITDA, emphasized the importance of collaboration and shared vision in his address: “When I learned of the aims and objectives of this workshop, my enthusiasm for our ecosystem was truly ignited. At NITDA, we firmly believe that no single entity can navigate this landscape alone; collective effort is imperative. Our vision for Nigeria is one of digital empowerment, innovation-driven prosperity, and inclusive economic growth fostered by technology. The global AI race has commenced, and the nation’s leading it will shape the future. Africa, with its abundant talent and youthful population, is poised to play a significant role. In Nigeria, our path is clear: AI is our journey, our goals are defined, and our determination is unwavering.” Reflecting on the event’s success, Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director at AfriLabs, remarked, “This collaboration has provided a platform for meaningful engagement, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, laying the groundwork for future innovation and growth across Africa.” As the curtains close on the Intel AI Programme for African DeepTech Startups & Ecosystem Stakeholders, the legacy of collaboration, innovation, and empowerment lives on. Looking ahead, the journey continues as Africa’s DeepTech community embarks on a path of growth, resilience, and boundless possibilities.   To learn more about the program and AfriLabs’ participation, contact Jonathan at jonathan@afrilabs.com. For general information about AfriLabs, visit 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.

AfriLabs and Algeria Venture Forge Partnership to Drive Sustainable Growth and Development in Africa

AfriLabs and Algeria Venture Forge Partnership to Drive Sustainable Growth and Development in Africa   AfriLabs, the largest pan-African innovation-focused organization empowering and building a community around innovation hubs and other stakeholders, is excited to announce a new partnership with Algeria Venture, a state-owned startup accelerator in Algeria aimed at fostering startup innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. Through its range of programs, the backing of governmental and financial institutions, Algeria Venture plays a significant role in nurturing the startup ecosystem and driving economic growth in Algeria.   This partnership was unveiled at the AfriLabs Annual Gathering event 2023, which took place in Kigali, Rwanda, from the 11th to 13th of October where both organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding. The event was a platform to discuss how to accelerate the digital economy in Africa and identify the available opportunities, it was attended by innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, and other stakeholders from across the continent.   The AfriLabs – Algeria Venture partnership aims to identify areas of potential joint initiatives where both organizations may seek and analyze cooperation opportunities, encourage innovation and support in the management, funding and promotion of the startup ecosystem across Africa.   Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director at AfriLabs, said “We are thrilled to partner with Algeria Venture, this partnership is a significant step towards promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa. It will provide a platform for Algerian startups and innovative projects to connect with the wider African innovation ecosystem, and for AfriLabs to expand its reach and impact in North Africa. The partnership will also enable both organizations to share knowledge, resources, and expertise, and to collaborate on joint initiatives that will drive sustainable growth and development on the continent.”   Sidali Zerrouki, General Manager at Algeria Venture, said, “This partnership with AfriLabs will enable Algeria Venture to expand its network of stakeholders engaged in innovation and maximize its impact on the African continent; furthermore, it will ensure the startups it promotes to acquire new market shares and forge relationships with local actors.”   This partnership is a testament to AfriLabs’ commitment to driving innovation and technology in Africa and to Algeria Venture’s dedication to promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in Algeria. Together, these organizations will work towards creating a more prosperous and equitable future for all Africans.   For more information about the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2023 and AfriLabs, visit www.afrilabsgathering.com and www.afrilabs.com. To learn more about Algeria Venture visit  www.aventure.dz   For media inquiries, please contact jen@afrilabs.com, ifunanya@afrilabs.com, and joshua@afrilabs.com. ………………………………………………………………………………………   About Algeria Venture Algeria Venture, also known as A-Venture, is a state-owned startup accelerator in Algeria aimed at fostering startup innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.    Through its range of programs, the backing of governmental and financial institutions, Algeria Venture plays a significant role in nurturing the startup ecosystem and driving economic growth in Algeria.   About AfriLabs AfriLabs is an organization committed to fostering innovation and building a strong community around innovation hubs and other key stakeholders across all African countries. Through data analytics, tailored training programs, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and specialized support, AfriLabs equips Africa with the essential skills and resources needed to drive sustainable development and growth within the continent’s tech and innovation landscape. As an organization aiming to raise $1bn in the next three years, AfriLabs engages with policymakers and stakeholders to shape policies that empower the pan-African innovation economy, driving sustainable growth and technological advancement backed by data.    Visit the AfriLabs website www.afrilabs.com to learn more about how the largest pan-African innovation-focused network is making a difference.

AfriLabs and Renew Capital Drive Investment in African Startups –  Leveraging a Shared Vision for Impactful Change in Africa

AfriLabs and Renew Capital Drive Investment in African Startups –  Leveraging a Shared Vision for Impactful Change in Africa   AfriLabs and Renew Capital formed a strategic and collaborative relationship that will foster innovation, drive sustainable and impactful change in Africa by signing a memorandum of understanding at the 2023 AfriLabs Annual Gathering event hosted in Kigali, Rwanda.     This exciting partnership will enable Renew Capital to gain access to de-risked and investable startups within the AfriLabs network through AfriLabs Connect Deal Room (ACDR); an initiative that connects global investors with innovative startups in Africa seeking to raise scale-up funding for their businesses. The referred startups from the ACDR will be considered by Renew Capital for inclusion within the prevailing investment process for funding.   Ajibola Odukoya, Chief Operating Officer at AfriLabs, said, “We are excited to work with Renew Capital to provide a platform for African startups to access capital, training and mentorship , and It will help to spur the wave of change that African innovators and entrepreneurs have long sought. Connecting investors to innovative projects will create economic and social value not just in Africa, but throughout the world.”   “As a firm our mission is to grow companies that in turn build their nations and leave a lasting legacy,” said Lucas Robinson, Director of Regional Private Sector Projects at Renew Capital. “We’re excited to work more closely with AfriLabs and its continent-wide network of entrepreneurship hubs to add value to the business ecosystems in Africa.   This partnership shows the dedication of both organizations to promoting entrepreneurship, collaboration, and knowledge sharing on the continent. Together AfriLabs and Renew Capital will work to create a brighter future for all Africans, with an eye towards sustainable development and inclusive growth.   For more information about the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2023 and AfriLabs, visit www.afrilabsgathering.com and www.afrilabs.com. To learn more about Renew Capital visit  www.renewcapital.com.    For media inquiries, please contact jen@afrilabs.com, ifunanya@afrilabs.com, and joshua@afrilabs.com. ………………………………………………………………………………………   About Renew CapitalRenew Capital is an Africa-focused impact investment firm that backs innovative companies with high-growth potential. Renew Capital manages investments made on behalf of the Renew Capital Angels, a global network of angel investors, foundations and family offices who seek financial returns and sustainable social impact.   About AfriLabs AfriLabs is an organization committed to fostering innovation and building a strong community around innovation hubs and other key stakeholders across all African countries. Through data analytics, tailored training programs, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and specialized support, AfriLabs equips Africa with the essential skills and resources needed to drive sustainable development and growth within the continent’s tech and innovation landscape. As an organization aiming to raise $1bn in the next three years, AfriLabs engages with policymakers and stakeholders to shape policies that empower the pan African innovation economy, driving sustainable growth and technological advancement backed by data.    Visit the AfriLabs website www.afrilabs.com to learn more about how the largest pan-African innovation-focused network is making a difference.

Catalysing Africa’s Digital Economy: Content Tracks for Collaboration, Policy advocacy,  Inclusion, and Sustainability at the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2023

The global digital landscape is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and with each passing day, new innovations are being introduced to the market. The importance of technology in driving Africa’s economy is becoming increasingly evident. Africans have an opportunity to lead this revolution, solve diverse challenges and take the continent to the next level. All stakeholders must understand the urgency needed to make this change a reality. This starts with having the right conversations, utilizing relevant technologies and having the opportunity to take advantage of this revolution. These are our priorities at this year’s AfriLabs Annual Gathering. The AfriLabs flagship event, AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2023, is scheduled to take place in Kigali, Rwanda from Wednesday, October 11th to Friday, October 13th. The purpose of the event is to accelerate the growth of Africa’s digital economy by bringing together stakeholders from the African technology and innovation ecosystem. The event consists of six content tracks, each with a specific focus. The Investor track will explore funding gaps in the African technology and innovation ecosystem and innovative solutions required to bridge these gaps. The Climate Change and Adaptation track will bring together experts and innovators to explore sustainable approaches to climate action. The Creative and Technology Intersection track will showcase cross-sector collaborations and innovative initiatives that leverage technology for expression and business development. The Policy and Data-Driven Africa track will explore policy-related challenges and data-driven decision-making and governance strategies for inclusive growth in Africa. It will also feature a ministerial roundtable focused on policy harmonisation. The Gender Inclusion track will highlight the importance of gender diversity and equity within the tech and entrepreneurship sectors. Lastly, the Hub Solutions & Sustainability track will examine how African technology and innovation hubs can offer quality support to startups while remaining profitable. Discussions will cover pain points, opportunities, scalability, and innovative financing. The AfriLabs Annual Gathering will provide attendees with access to investor networks and key stakeholder groups, including startups, academics, media partners, developmental organizations, and industry titans. In addition to sessions and masterclasses from industry leaders and key government officials, the gathering will also offer opportunities to launch projects, identify investment opportunities, explore new business models, and develop trends for the next year in technology and innovation in Africa. Rwanda’s Minister of Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Hon Paula Inagbire, stated that “Rwanda is always open to welcome regional and global innovators. Our goal is to empower scalable startups that collectively transform our communities with cutting-edge innovations.” The sentiment perfectly reflects the purpose of AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2023: bringing together individuals from all facets of the technology and innovation ecosystem in Africa to meet, learn, and share.If you want to be a part of shaping Africa’s innovation and technology ecosystem or stay abreast of the latest developments, don’t miss out on AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2023!

Revolutionizing the African Innovation & Technology Ecosystem: Discover the AfriLabs 8th Annual Gathering Track Champions

AfriLabs is revolutionizing the African innovation and technology ecosystem with their 8th Annual Gathering, taking place in Kigali, Rwanda from Wednesday the 11th of October to Friday the 13th of October 2023. This year’s gathering and theme “Accelerating Africa’s digital economy; by the strength of our community”  provides attendees with access to investor networks and key stakeholder groups which include high-level startups, academics, media partners, developmental organizations and titans of industry.     The event will feature key industry leaders/organizations as track champions who are ready to reshape the future of African innovation. These champions will provide activities such as panel discussions, master classes, workshops, focus group discussions, training, showcase of best practices and co-creation sessions throughout the event. Organizations involved include; VC4A, Smart Africa, GCA, Industry Nite, Office of Global Partnership, Nobody’s Listening, Clintonel, Film Hedge, 360 Creative Hub, Assembly Hub, Plural, Clean Technology Hub, Grid Innovation, NCIC, Digifemmes, Acelera Angola, Fie_Labs, Zixtech, TechQuest Stem, iSpaceGhana, Snake Nation, The Scathcompanies,  Atsur and many more.  All these reputable organizations and hubs take an interest and specialize in the areas of climate change and climate adaptation, creative and technology intersection, policy and data-driven Africa, gender inclusion, and finally Hubs solutions and sustainability. This is a great chance for stakeholders across different sectors to come together under one roof not only to exchange knowledge but also to witness first-hand how collective action can help shape this continent’s future into a fully digitized Africa by 2030.  By providing these opportunities AfriLabs has created an invaluable platform where members can learn from each other regardless of sector or geographical location creating something truly special that gives us insight into what our continent could become if we work together towards achieving common goals: A better connected Africa with more resources available for everyone! So don’t miss out on your chance.