GCA YouthADAPT Webinar: Women as Leaders in Climate Adaptation, Empowering Change
GCA YouthADAPT Webinar: Women as Leaders in Climate Adaptation, Empowering Change Women are often amongst the most affected by climate change’s harsh realities, facing unique vulnerabilities that exacerbate existing gender inequalities. Yet, despite these challenges, women continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience and leadership, driving transformative solutions in climate adaptation across Africa and beyond. To celebrate and amplify these efforts, an upcoming webinar titled “Women as Leaders in Climate Adaptation: Empowering Change” will explore women’s pivotal role in climate adaptation and highlight strategies to enhance their impact as agents of change. The webinar, scheduled for Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 2:00 PM WAT on Zoom, is part of the GCA YouthADAPT Challenge, an annual competition and awards program jointly organized by the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA), African Development Bank (AfDB), and Climate Investment Funds (CIF). The YouthADAPT Challenge aims to drive inclusive growth, expand economic opportunities, and empower African youth in the climate space. Webinar Objectives: Highlight Gendered Impact: Discuss the specific ways in which climate change disproportionately impacts women and girls, creating unique challenges and vulnerabilities. Showcase Women-led Initiatives: Feature inspiring examples of women-led climate adaptation projects across Africa, illustrating the innovative solutions driven by women leaders. Identify Leadership Barriers: Examine the obstacles that hinder women from assuming leadership roles in climate action, including social, economic, and institutional barriers. Develop Empowerment Strategies: Formulate practical recommendations to support and empower women as leaders in climate adaptation efforts. Encourage Knowledge Exchange: Provide a platform for knowledge sharing among climate experts, policymakers, and practitioners dedicated to gender-inclusive climate adaptation. Through this event, attendees will gain valuable insights into the critical role of women in climate adaptation, from addressing the immediate impacts to shaping long-term resilience strategies. With climate adaptation rapidly emerging as a pressing global priority, this webinar presents a unique opportunity to support gender equity in climate leadership, ensuring that women’s voices and solutions are integral to our collective response to the climate crisis. Register now and join us on the 5th of December for this insightful webinar using this link: https://tinyurl.com/YouthChallenge2022. About AfriLabs: AfriLabs is a Pan-African network of over 500 innovation hubs across 53 African countries designed to drive sustainable economic growth across the continent through investment, innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. To learn more about the webinar contact Lisa on Lisa@afrilabs.com. For general information about AfriLabs visit www.afrilabs.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
The Second Cohort of the African Union Digital and Innovation Fellowship Programme Announced at AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024
The Second Cohort of the African Union Digital and Innovation Fellowship Programme Announced at AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024 Cape Town, South Africa – At this year’s AfriLabs Annual Gathering, held from November 6-8 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC 2), the African Union (AU) proudly announced the second cohort of the AU Digital and Innovation Fellowship Programme. This year’s Annual Gathering was a success, uniting a diverse network of innovators, thought leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across the African continent to advance the conversation on technology-driven growth. The AU Digital and Innovation Fellowship Programme is a transformative 12-month initiative designed to position Africa’s top tech innovators as “resident fellows” within AU headquarters. These fellows play a pivotal role in analysing AU unit systems, identifying challenges in data management, and co-creating innovative solutions tailored to enhance efficiency. By fostering capacity-building among AU staff, the fellowship not only drives immediate improvements but also ensures the sustainability of these innovations well beyond the fellowship term. Launched in March 2024, the second edition of the fellowship programme attracted an impressive 3,000 applications from young African innovators. After a rigorous selection process, 19 exceptional fellows were chosen and deployed to 13 AU host units, where they will work on strengthening data processes, improving digital systems, and gaining valuable skills in leadership, entrepreneurship, and professional development. The fellows are: Felix Fomengia Atabonglefac (Cameroon) – Fellow at the Office of the Director General (ODG). Nkosingiphile Ntshangase (South Africa) – Digital and Innovation Tech Fellow at the Information Society Department (ISD). Ceasar Waweru Kabue (Kenya) – Fellow at the Office of the Director General (ODG). Ornella Ahouandogbo – Digital and Innovation Tech Fellow at the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Kofi Mensah Abaya (Ghana) – Fellow at the Africa CDC. Apiwe Hotele (South Africa) – Fellow at the AUDA-NEPAD Coordination Unit. David Tufe Nzadon (Nigeria) – Fellow at the MIS Division. Rabia Moussa (Niger Republic) – Fellow at the Sustainable Environment & Blue Economy (SEBE) team. Stephen Amoakoh Donkor (Ghana) – Fellow at the Information and Communication Directorate. Frida Ndi (Cameroon) – Fellow at the Women, Gender and Youth Directorate (WGYD). Thamsanqa Kunta-Kinte Ngcobo (South Africa) – Fellow at the African Union – InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR). Hagernesh Tadesse (Ethiopia) – Fellow at the Information and Communication Directorate (ICD). Waiswa Ronald Mironda (Uganda) – Fellow at the Office of the AU Youth Envoy (OYE). Melkam Mekonnen (Ethiopia) – Software Developer fellow at the Africa CDC. Mekitmfon Herbert AwakEssien (Nigeria) – Fellow at the Economic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry, Mining (ETTIM) unit. Thokozile Manaka (Lesotho) – Data Scientist and fellow at the Africa CDC. Goodnews Sunday Sandy (Nigeria) – Fellow at the Information Society Department (ISD). Dereje Mulat Ferede (Ethiopia) – Fellow at the AU Innovation Lab. Christabel Onwuka (Nigeria) – Fellow at the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). Nanko Madu, Director of Programmes at AfriLabs, expressed optimism for the program’s impact: “This fellowship program exemplifies the power of innovation to drive sustainable change. By placing top innovators within the African Union, we’re bridging the gap between talent and opportunity, laying the foundation for future leaders who will champion digital transformation across the continent.” The fellows shared their aspirations and excitement as they embark on this journey. Thokozile Manaka, a fellow deployed to the Africa CDC, said: “I anticipate that this fellowship will be a pivotal opportunity to collaborate with experts and develop innovative digital health solutions that not only enhance healthcare delivery but also inform evidence-based policies. By leveraging data and technology, I aim to contribute to a sustainable framework that addresses Africa’s unique health challenges and drives systemic improvements across the continent.” Mekitmfon Herbert AwakEssien, a fellow to the Economic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry, Mining (ETTIM) unit, emphasised: “As I embark on this fellowship, I see it as a crucible for transformative change. I’m eager to learn from Africa’s brightest minds, contribute my expertise in digital development, network with visionaries across the continent, and ultimately take actions that will catalyse Africa’s digital revolution and transformation. This is my chance to turn ideas into action, and action into impact.” Another inspiring voice, Kofi Mensah Abaya, a fellow at the Africa CDC, added: “As a fellow with the Africa CDC, I am determined to collaborate on initiatives that enhance public health infrastructure and promote sustainable health outcomes across the continent. In alignment with Agenda 2063, which envisions ‘an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa,’ I am of the view that digital health innovations can play a pivotal role in achieving these goals.” The African Union Digital and Innovation Fellowship Program continues to embody the vision of Agenda 2063 by developing a network of skilled innovators who contribute directly to the growth and integration of digital solutions across the AU’s core operations. AfriLabs remains committed to supporting initiatives that foster collaboration and advance Africa’s innovation landscape. About AfriLabs- AfriLabs is a Pan-African network of over 500 innovation hubs across 53 African countries designed to drive sustainable economic growth across the continent through investment, innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. About African Union The African Union (AU) is a continental body consisting of 55 member states representing the continent of Africa. Its vision is to achieve an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena. For more information about the African Union Digital and Innovation Fellowship Onboarding Event contact aufellowship@afrilabs.com, Lisa@afrilabs.com, and cc Chibudu@afrilabs.com. For general information about the AU Digital and Innovation Fellowship Programme, please visit www.auinnovationfellowship.com. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024: Spotlight on Seven Dynamic Tracks Shaping Africa’s Innovation Landscape
AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024: Spotlight on Seven Dynamic Tracks Shaping Africa’s Innovation Landscape Cape Town, South Africa – The AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024, held from November 6-8 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC 2), was a resounding success, bringing together a diverse network of innovators, thought leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across Africa. This year’s event marks the 9th iteration of the AfriLabs Annual Gathering with the theme “Uniting Innovation,” placing a strong emphasis on seven thematic tracks: Green and Blue Economy Track, Gender and Inclusion Track, Investor/Investment Track, Hub Solutions Track, Policy, Data, and AI Track, Creative Digital Economy Track and Makerspaces. Each track represents a cornerstone of Africa’s rapidly evolving innovation landscape and serves as a vibrant platform for dialogue, exchange, and strategic planning aimed at shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for Africa. In collaboration with RLabs, a leader in South Africa’s innovation ecosystem, AfriLabs spotlighted Cape Town’s vibrant entrepreneurial landscape. The city’s breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage created a unique setting for a Gathering that left a lasting impact on Africa’s innovation landscape. AfriLabs’ Executive Director, Anna Ekeledo, expressed the unifying ethos of the event during her opening remarks, 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.” Deputy Minister Raesetja Jane Sithole of South Africa’s Ministry of Small Business Development delivered an inspiring keynote address, emphasising the country’s commitment to fostering accessible opportunities. “The future of South Africa’s growth lies in empowering diverse entrepreneurs. 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,” she stated, reflecting the event’s dedication to inclusive, sustainable growth across Africa. The Creative Digital Economy Track, provided an immersive exploration into Africa’s creative sector, discussing the fusion of technology and creativity that powers Africa’s burgeoning digital arts, gaming, and content sectors. Topics ranged from “Diaspora to Homeland: Building a Connected Future” to “Independent Filmmaking in the Digital Era” and “Gaming for Impact.” The track gathered esteemed voices like Mathew Mensah, Ambassador for Ghana Tourism and Co-founder of Act Africa, and Henry A Stokes, Senior VP of The African Channel among many others. Speakers dove into themes of African storytelling, the opportunities for Africa’s creative industries on the global stage, and the potential of digital platforms to drive the sector’s growth. The track underscored the potential of Africa’s creative economy to bridge cultural, technological, and economic divides, all while empowering the continent’s youth and creatives. Addressing the essential role of Policy, Data, and AI in Africa’s development, this track convened policymakers, tech leaders, and AI specialists to discuss ethical AI, cultural alignment in AI design, and policy frameworks that empower data-driven innovations. From “AI in Africa: Accelerating Africa’s AI Footprint” to “Digital Public Infrastructure: The Role of Policy and AI in Sectoral Transformation,” the discussions examined how a responsible AI and data strategy could support sustainable growth and innovation. Notable speakers included Dr. Rachel Sibande from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Mario Romao, Intel’s Director of AI Policy, and representatives from both the AU and the South African government, who explored the policy requirements for Africa’s AI future. The Hub Solutions Track centred on the foundational role of innovation hubs in Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape. This track presented strategies for hubs to “scale up”, sessions included a “Design Thinking Masterclass” and panel discussions on “Hub Evolution” and “Strategic Partnerships.” Experts like Alfredo Cuanda, Founder & Business Designer at Ideario and Tomi Davies, Chief Investment Officer at TVC Labs, shared insights on strategies for specialisation and global collaboration and creating hubs with a “10x” impact, positioning hubs as central to nurturing localised innovation and facilitating access to resources, training, and mentorship. Rebecca Enonchong, CEO of AppsTech, shared sentiments on empowering young startups which resonated deeply here, as she emphasised, “Our mission is to be a steady hand for entrepreneurs, guiding them from ideation to growth. By investing in them, we’re investing in the future of Africa—one startup, one idea at a time.” The Investment Track united investors and startups to discuss Africa’s investment ecosystem and the pathways to attract both local and global capital. Thought leaders such as Tomiwa Aladekomo, CEO of Big Cabal Media, Julia Price, Co-Founder/Director at Linea Capital and Spiwe Sibanda, Development Bank of Southern Africa’s Credit Risk Executive, delved into topics on “The state of Investment by Tech Cabal insights” and “Navigating Investment Risks and Returns” and “The Future of Investment: Insights into the current landscape and future trends in African & Global Investments.” The discussions emphasised the critical need to develop new financing frameworks, partnerships, and de-risking mechanisms that empower African entrepreneurs and accelerate growth across underserved communities. In the Gender and Inclusion Track, leaders and advocates gathered to highlight the impact of gender equity and inclusivity in the tech ecosystem. Through panel discussions like “Tech-Enabled Financial Inclusion” and “Inclusive Digital Ecosystems: Women and Disability Participation,” speakers explored how Africa’s tech landscape could benefit from a broader representation of voices, talents, and perspectives. Noteworthy contributors included Hema Vallabh, Founding Partner at Five35 Ventures, and Baratang Miya, Founder of Girlhype Women Who Code. This track advocated for equal opportunities and supportive environments for women and underrepresented groups, emphasising the critical importance of inclusivity in fostering resilience and diversity in Africa’s innovation ecosystem. The Green and Blue Economy Track delved into Africa’s sustainability challenges and the potential of green technologies to foster resilient ecosystems. Topics such as “Harnessing Technology for Resilient Agricultural Eco Parks” and “Collaborative Policies for Environmental Resilience” were discussed by speakers including Buffy Okeke-Ojiudu, CEO of Zebra Group, Tigele Nlebesi, Ventures Associate at ALX Ventures and Uche Ekeledo, CEO at Fosu. The track offered a vision for a sustainable Africa through enhanced environmental governance, leveraging both natural resources and advanced technologies for growth in agriculture, water resources, and sustainable trade.
AfriLabs Announces Global Powerhouses as Partners for the 2024 Annual Gathering: Driving Innovation and Collaboration Across Africa
AfriLabs Announces Global Powerhouses as Partners for the 2024 Annual Gathering: Driving Innovation and Collaboration Across Africa AfriLabs is pleased to announce the partners for the 2024 AfriLabs Annual Gathering, to be held from November 6th to 8th in Cape Town, South Africa at Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC 2). This year’s theme, “Uniting Innovation”, emphasizes the importance of collaboration to drive economic growth and social development through Africa’s innovation ecosystem. The event will feature seven key tracks, each focusing on pivotal sectors that are essential for Africa’s future: Makerspaces Green and Blue Economy Gender and Inclusion Investment Hub Solutions Policy, Data, and AI Creative Digital Economy These tracks will highlight opportunities and challenges in sectors vital to Africa’s future, showcasing how innovation can foster sustainable growth. AfriLabs is proud to collaborate with prominent global organizations, including: RLabs: Our esteemed Host Hub for this year’s AfriLabs Annual Gathering is not just a partner but a cornerstone of the event. With a remarkable history of fostering entrepreneurial spirit and technological advancement, RLabs brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the gathering. NASENI (Nigeria): The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure will showcase its efforts in driving innovation and industrialization across Nigeria. Research & Innovation Systems for Africa Fund (RISA): RISA’s efforts to strengthen the research landscape across Africa complement AfriLabs’ ongoing work to provide insightful, reliable data to innovators and entrepreneurs on the continent. Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA): ERIA brings global expertise in economic integration, digital inclusion, and SME promotion, enhancing collaboration between East Asia and Africa. Cloudmania: Cloudmania, Liquid C2’s award-winning distribution business unit, specializes in delivering cloud and cyber security solutions with operations across the Middle East and Africa. Through its strategic partnership with Microsoft, Cloudmania equips numerous partners with cloud and cyber security services and solutions, including Microsoft 365 and Azure, all within a fully supported ecosystem. Tanzania Hub Network: Dedicated to building a vibrant, interconnected innovation ecosystem in Tanzania, this partner’s work, supported by UNDP’s FUNGUO Innovation Programme, in empowering hubs for socio-economic development resonates with AfriLabs’ pan-African mission. Technology Innovation Agency (TIA): TIA Plays an essential role in bridging the gap between research and commercialization. Their participation in this year’s event underscores the importance of ensuring that Africa’s innovative ideas translate into impactful, market-ready solutions. Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO): DCO is another prominent partner contributing to the development of Africa’s digital economy policies and fostering global strategic partnerships Intel: As a long-time partner, Intel will be hosting a roundtable on AI policy, providing a platform for African and global thought leaders to explore the future of AI in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. UNFPA: UNFPA, also a long-standing partner, will lead a panel discussion and workshop on leveraging innovation to enhance sexual and reproductive health programming for African youth. Additionally, UNFPA will host an exhibition booth to showcase SRHR Innovation solutions, offering valuable insights into advancements in sexual and reproductive health across the continent. Google: As a key partner at the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024, Google will be participating in activities aligned with its accelerator program, aiming to foster growth in the African startup ecosystem by equipping founders with essential resources and expertise for success both locally and globally. Additional partners include Interledger Foundation, Anglo American, ReCha, Comtel, South African Future Trust Foundation, African Intelligent Machines (AIM), ZIto, the French Embassy and the City of Cape Town (CoCT). These partners will contribute to advancing cross-border collaboration, innovation, digital inclusion and local empowerment while supporting a shared commitment to Africa’s innovation-driven future. “The support of our partners is not only a testament to the global relevance of Africa’s innovation ecosystem but also to the importance of collaborative efforts in driving sustainable development across the continent.” – Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director of AfriLabs “We are excited to partner with AfriLabs, a leading player on the African continent. We look forward to scaling up our activities in digital inclusion and green innovations to connect ecosystem builders, innovators, and start-ups across Asia and Africa.” – Dr. Giulia Ajmone Marsan, Head of Startups and Inclusion, ERIA Digital Innovation and Sustainable Economy Center With an impressive lineup of partners, the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024 promises to be a revolutionary event, uniting visionaries and innovators committed to shaping Africa’s future. Register today at AfriLabs Annual Gathering and secure your tickets here. 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. Follow AfriLabs on social media at @afrilabs and visit our website, www.afrilabsgathering.com and www.afrilabs.com for updates on the event, tracks, and registration. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com& comms@afrilabs.com
Small and Medium-Sized enterprises (SMEs) as Key drivers of Climate Adaptation and Innovation in Africa
Small and Medium-Sized enterprises (SMEs) as Key drivers of Climate Adaptation and Innovation in Africa On June 27th, 2024, YouthADAPT hosted a transformative webinar, spotlighting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) as pivotal drivers of climate adaptation and innovation across Africa. This event, supported by esteemed partners including the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA), Climate Investment Funds (CIF), Africa Development Bank (AfDB), and African Technology Innovation Hubs Initiative (AfriLabs) underscored the critical role of SMEs in shaping sustainable development amidst escalating climate challenges. Coinciding with World SME Day, the webinar emphasized the significant contributions of SMEs to economic growth and how they contribute to building climate resilient communities and celebrating their essential role in adapting to climate impacts. The session commenced with a welcome address from the moderator – Venan Sondo, Chief Stewardship Officer at Chaint Afrique, emphasizing the urgent need to bolster support for SMEs in combating climate change. Serah Nderitu, Senior Program Officer at the Global Center of Adaptation (GCA) highlighted that SMEs constitute 90% of businesses on the continent, generating 80% of employment and contributing 60% to Africa’s GDP. The resilience and agility of SMEs uniquely position them to swiftly address climate impacts in underserved communities. Emmanuel Kouadio, Climate Resilience Programs Lead at Climate Investment Funds (CIF), highlighted the important role SMEs play in influencing change and accelerating Africa’s progress towards reaching the goal of net zero emissions and encouraging sustainability. He also reiterated the deep connections SMEs have with their local communities and the impact they have on accelerating growth and development. Through initiatives like the YouthADAPT Challenge Program – a key component of the Youth Empowerment for Entrepreneurship and Job Creation in Climate Adaptation and Resilience Pillar under the African Acceleration Adaptation Programme (AAAP). So far, YouthADAPT has supported over 41 entrepreneurs across 21 African countries with grants to the tune of $5.4 million since 2021. The keynote speaker, Dr. Youssef Brouziyne of the International Water Management Institute outlined key strategies for supporting SMEs, including enhancing access to finance and fostering innovation through incubation programs. Challenges like knowledge gaps and complex institutional setups were acknowledged, suggesting a need for tailored support frameworks to nurture sustainable entrepreneurial growth. Insightful panel discussions were facilitated by experts in the African innovation and entrepreneurship space. Panelists included Chidera Ejiofor, Kris Senanu and Irene Boghdadi; as well as previous winners of the YouthADAPT challenge – Rita Idehai founder of Ecobarter, Nigeria and Kaveto Tjatjara founder of Flushh, Namibia. The panelists highlighted the pivotal role of digital transformation in enhancing SME efficiency and market competitiveness. Several discussants emphasized the importance of digital solutions “from fintech applications to operational software” to optimize internal processes and expand market reach. The consensus pointed towards capacity-building programs and governmental support for Research & Development (R&D) centers as critical enablers for digital adoption by SMEs. Furthermore, alternative finance models such as African venture funds and crowd-sourcing were proposed, while the importance of capacity-building and government-supported R&D centers were equally highlighted. These initiatives aim to diversify funding streams and enhance SME resilience against financial uncertainties. Another key point was the need for larger, established corporations to support SMEs by including them in their supply chains. Toyin Omasan Oyeniyi, Programmes Manager at AfriLabs, concluded the webinar by highlighting the importance of sustained collaboration and innovation in supporting SMEs. She highlighted the role of AfriLabs in nurturing a conducive ecosystem for SMEs to thrive, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to empowering youth-led initiatives for a more sustainable Africa. The Youth Adaption Solutions Challenge webinar on “Small and Medium-Sized enterprises (SMEs) as Key drivers of Climate Adaptation and Innovation” in Africa not only shed light on the pivotal role of SMEs in climate adaptation and some of the challenges hindering growth such as limited access to finance and policy barriers, but also galvanized stakeholders towards actionable solutions. Investment in adaptation SMEs was emphasized as crucial due to their direct impact on vulnerable communities and rapid market growth potential. With steadfast support from the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA), African Development Bank (AfDB), Climate Investment Funds (CIF) and AfriLabs, SMEs are poised to lead Africa’s transformation towards a greener, more resilient future. As challenges persist, the collective resolve to empower SMEs through financial support, digital innovation, and strategic partnerships remains steadfast – a testament to the continent’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to sustainability.
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
The State Of The Innovation Policy Environment In Nigeria
Learnings from the Nigerian Innovation Policy Dialogue by AfriLabs and UNDP Accelerator Labs by Amadou Sow (UNDP Accelerator Labs), Serge Ntamack (AfriLabs), Tessy Okolo (AfriLabs), Tayo Akinyemi (UNDP Accelerator Labs) and Joshua Omena .A. (AfriLabs). Currently, it is difficult to inventory policies in Africa, and as a result of this, we have fragmentation and siloing in policy development, analysis and understanding. This sets the stage for the relevant dialogues on our innovation policies. We need to know where we are in terms of the progress made in creating a supportive policy environment for startups. Discussing innovation policy is worthwhile given Africa’s potential, its ecosystem and its creativity that makes it resilient despite the enormous challenges the continent faces. The low inventory of policies creates a dissonance in enabling startups across Africa. While some African countries have implemented policies that aim to help startups, many have not. This presents an opportunity for alignment between stakeholders and increased support for innovation. In the presence of a thorough dialogue (or series of dialogues) between stakeholders in a country’s innovation ecosystem, the right policies will be an appropriate response, incisively dealing with the identified block roads. These opportunities for learning and improved support for the innovation ecosystem are glaring especially when we examine the macroeconomic outlook in Africa, alongside the booming startup industry. According to the World Bank, the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic was predicted to slow growth in Sub-Saharan Africa by -3.3% in 2020, pushing the region into its first recession in 25 years. However, there will be a sluggish and multi-speed recovery with significant variation across countries partly owing to higher commodity prices and private consumption and investment as confidence strengthens and exports increase. Simultaneously, funding for Africa’s startups is at a record high, with Nigeria and Kenya serving as the hotspots for Venture Capital investments including $307 million and $305 million raised in 2020. Further, it is predicted that capital funding for African startups will reach a record of $2.25 billion and $2.8 billion in 2021. The role of policy in the recovery and sustainable growth of the innovation economy is crucial and worthy of interrogating conversations. The UNDP Accelerator Labs, through its network of 91 labs covering 115 countries around the world, including 35 in Africa, partnered with AfriLabs, the largest pan-African network of 347 technology and innovation hubs across 52 African countries and the diaspora. This partnership aims to advance the development agenda in Africa – through capacity development, linking policy and practice to advance innovation as a driver for development. To achieve the ambition of this partnership, both organisations identified national dialogues on innovation policies as a good first step. The first edition was held online in December 2021 and focused on Nigeria. The conversations attempted to address various issues around innovation policies in the West African country, through the eyes of the stakeholders on ground. The stakeholders that were present included Nigerian government representatives, local innovation hubs managers, startup founders, local investors, corporate bodies, development agencies and others. The dialogue on the innovation policies in Nigeria provided a space for an inclusive discussion and policy exchange among key and diverse stakeholders, on how innovation policy can best serve development and help achieve sustainable goals. It focused on the following priority areas: Innovation and SDGs Startups Policy framework and prospects Innovation and achieving the SDGs It was highlighted during the conversations that we need to improve how we communicate about the SDGs and what we are doing to achieve them. The conversations emphasized the role of collaboration and aligning of interests between private and public sectors, and the need for connecting the national role of the Innovation Support Network (ISN) and the continental role of AfriLabs. Stakeholders also suggested a seat for innovators at various levels of government and policy-making, both the regional and country level. To build an enabling environment for innovation and ideas that tackle the SDGs, an inclusive and bottom-up policy development approach should be encouraged. Sustainable and decentralized funding and infrastructure development should also be a must. Governments and other stakeholders should support local solutions, develop local talent and encourage youth engagement while integrating innovators into decision-making and technical regulatory and overseeing bodies. We ought to also prioritize measuring and demonstrating impact and reinforce the role of the R&D function within the ecosystem. Supporting startups’ sustainability The government needs to make more effort to understand the startup environment. In the words of one of the stakeholders during the dialogue: “The government uses the same hammer that it applies on the big companies, on the startups. They correct the baby with the same method as the adult”. We need to ease the bureaucracy for startups and support them with incentives. For example, the new postal tax on logistics companies (i.e. 2% of total revenue applied to transportation startups to help the national post office) is not how you encourage growth in the logistics startup scene. We also need to encourage the geographical distribution of the installation of hubs and innovation poles. This will help reduce the drainage of resources towards the large economic and political centres and give all towns and cities in the country a chance to grow their local innovation economy. Mobilization and diversification of funding sources We need more local funding opportunities. Another idea shared was that the state should play the role of a guarantor for access to credit to remove certain barriers such as requiring a track record of 3 to 5 years of activity. Emerging sectors, not just Fintech, need to be supported and focused on, especially sectors like agriculture, healthcare, transportation, trade, real estate and the creative industry. It was also noted that the evolution of skills is required for startup sustainability. Stakeholders were encouraged to embrace negotiation, diplomacy, and a single and united voice to engage the Government on the needs of startups. Policy framework and prospects We need to agree on common objectives. What is an inclusive policy