Redefining the Future of Connectivity: What to Expect at AfricaCom 2024
Less than one week to go! The stage is almost set for the 27th edition of AfricaCom to return to the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). Cape Town is buzzing as the industry’s top decision-makers, thought leaders, and innovators make final preparations for one of Africa’s most influential gatherings in the telecoms and technology sectors. This year’s AfricaCom promises an engaging, solution-oriented platform that is already sparking anticipation throughout the African tech ecosystem.
From all corners of the industry, there’s a sense of anticipation as the African tech ecosystem prepares to showcase groundbreaking advancements, explore new opportunities, and tackle the continent’s most pressing challenges.
As an official media partner, we at TechAfrica News are equally gearing up to be on the ground—ready to engage, report, and bring our audience all the highlights, discussions, and trends as they unfold. We’re also excited to actively contribute to this year’s dynamic conversations and to connect with the community driving Africa’s digital future.
“”As an official media partner, TechAfrica News is excited to be on the ground, bringing you the latest updates and trends shaping Africa’s digital future. We look forward to connecting with leaders, innovators, and thought pioneers, all while ensuring that our audience stays informed with real-time insights that matter most to the continent’s tech evolution.”
— Akim Benamara, Founder & Chief Editor, TechAfrica News
The 27th Edition: What to Expect?
The 27th edition of AfricaCom is set to tackle four pivotal agendas that lie at the heart of Africa’s digital transformation. These core themes reflect the priorities for an interconnected future, where connectivity and infrastructure catalyze broader economic and social development across the continent. Carefully curated, these discussions promise to explore critical opportunities, reveal the latest innovations, and address the pressing challenges that will define Africa’s place in the global digital economy. Here’s a closer look at each agenda and some key sessions to look out for:
AfricaCom Centre Stage
At the heart of AfricaCom, Centre Stage is where the continent’s latest innovations in connectivity, broadcasting, and media come to life. This main agenda sets the tone for the event, focusing on how Africa is embracing digital transformation to enhance information access, entertainment, and communication. It’s here that participants will gain firsthand insights into emerging technologies and groundbreaking solutions designed to bridge digital divides and position Africa as a leader in the digital age.
By elevating local innovations and fostering global partnerships, Centre Stage is set to accelerate Africa’s leap into a tech-driven future, strengthening both regional and global connections.
Sessions and panels to look out for:
The Next Wave: Redefining the Frontier of Media and Entertainment Innovation
Industry leaders from Carry1st, Ayoba, BBC World Service, and StarNews Mobile will provide insights into the latest growth opportunities, partnerships, and trends influencing the media landscape.
Speakers: Guillaume Noe, VP of Growth, Carry1st; Gillian Ezra, Head of Sales and Business Development, Ayoba; Wesley Maritim, Business Development Manager for East & Southern Africa, BBC World Service; Guy Kamgaing, CEO, StarNews Mobile.
Driving Innovation: How 4G and 5G Will Revolutionize Connectivity in Africa
The evolution of 4G and the introduction of 5G are critical to Africa’s connectivity revolution. This session will cover how these advancements are set to transform sectors across the continent, from mobile communication to digital services, and how they will unlock new economic opportunities.
Speakers: Davide Tacchino, Managing Executive: Terminals, Vodacom SA; John Davies, Senior Equity Research Analyst, Bloomberg Intelligence; Nomvuyiso Batyi, CEO, Association of Communications and Technology NPC.
Bridging the Digital Divide: Driving Ubiquitous Connectivity for the Future of Africa
Universal connectivity remains key to Africa’s digital transformation. This session will focus on strategies to bridge the digital divide and deliver widespread connectivity across the continent.
Speakers: Alpheus Mangale, Group CEO, SEACOM; Yvonne Francis Mashuda, Head of Wholesale, TIGO Tanzania Public Limited Company; John Davies, Senior Equity Research Analyst, Bloomberg Intelligence; Heather Lanigan, Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, U.S. Trade and Development Agency; Samuel Kwabena Nkrumah, Head of Transport/Transmission, AT Ghana.
Connectivity & Digital Infrastructure
Connectivity is the foundation of Africa’s digital evolution, and this agenda will address the critical steps needed to achieve universal connectivity for businesses and societies. Topics will range from network expansion to affordability and accessibility, providing a roadmap for scalable infrastructure that supports digital inclusivity across rural and urban landscapes alike.
Improved connectivity and digital infrastructure will unlock unprecedented opportunities for economic growth, education, and healthcare, driving social inclusion and empowering communities across Africa.
At TechAfrica News, we are deeply committed to contributing to the conversation on Africa’s connectivity journey. Our Founder and Chief Editor, Akim Benamara, will be moderating two pivotal sessions under this agenda, leveraging his extensive expertise to engage stakeholders in meaningful discussions.
- Connecting Africa’s Next Billion: Scaling Africa’s Digital Infrastructure
Moderated by Akim Benamara, Founder & Chief Editor of TechAfrica News, this session will tackle one of the most pressing questions in African digital infrastructure development: What does it take to attract sustainable investment in scalable digital infrastructure to ensure connectivity for all?
Speakers: Akim Benamara, Founder & Chief Editor, TechAfrica News; Tobechukwu Okigbo, Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, MTN Nigeria.
- Emerging Technologies: Paving the Way for the Future of Connectivity & The Network
This session will explore how emerging technologies, including 5G, satellite connectivity, and cloud-based solutions, are creating transformative pathways toward universal access and enhancing digital resilience across Africa.
Speakers: Wilfried Dudink, Senior Director – Strategy & Development, Digital Realty; Robert Aouad, CEO, ISOCEL Telecom; Dr. Kareem Moshood, AGM, Nigerian Communications Satellite; Mohammad Alharbi, Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Saudi Arabia; Nir Lev-On, Head of Customer Solutions Architect, Amdocs OSS & Networks; Akim Benamara, Founder & Chief Editor, TechAfrica News
Telcos of Tomorrow
As the continent’s digital transformation accelerates, African telecommunications providers play a pivotal role in maintaining momentum. This agenda explores the latest trends reshaping the telco industry, from 5G deployment to digital services expansion. By keeping telcos at the core of Africa’s connectivity journey, the discussions will reveal how telecom companies are adapting to remain agile and future ready.
As African telcos evolve, they serve as critical enablers of digital innovation, enhancing service delivery, creating new revenue streams, and supporting Africa’s transformation into a digitally driven economy.
Key Sessions:
- The Future of Telecoms: Emerging Growth Drivers for Africa’s Modern Telco
The discussion will highlight how African telcos are positioning themselves to become key players in the broader digital economy.
Speakers: Rolivhuwa Maluma, GM: Digital Services – Marketing & Strategy, MTN; Dion Jerling, Co-Founder, Connect Earth; Kwanele Radebe Onyango, Executive: Telecommunications, Media & Technology Coverage, Standard Bank South Africa; Basha Pillay, Managing Executive: Services, Vodacom; Ajibola Olude, Executive Secretary, Association of Telecommunications Company of Nigeria (ATCON).
- Integrated AI: Telco Blueprints for Business Model and Service Delivery Transformation
With the rise of artificial intelligence, this session will focus on how AI is transforming the way telecoms operate, from enhancing service delivery to reshaping business models.
Speakers: Calvin Collett, CEO, Melon Mobile; Norbert Prihoda, Deputy CEO, Tunisie Telecom; Dhiresh Surajpal, Head of Strategic Partnerships, Google; Pushkar Gokhale, Chief Digital and Strategy Officer, Openserve; Gabriella Powell, Communications Manager, Unconnected.org
Data Centres Africa
Data centres are the backbone of a connected economy, and this agenda will spotlight the infrastructure required to support Africa’s data revolution. With growing demand for local data storage, processing, and security, participants will explore how data centres are equipping Africa to manage, analyze, and safeguard its data while enhancing cloud capabilities.
Establishing robust data centre infrastructure will enable Africa to retain data sovereignty, enhance data-driven decision-making, and support industries from finance to agriculture, empowering sectors across the continent to thrive in the digital age.
The session discussions will explore how data centre operators are overcoming challenges, future-proofing their operations, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to meet the needs of a digitally connected Africa.
- The Rise of Colocation: How African Enterprises are Leveraging Shared Data Centers for Growth
Speakers will discuss how colocation is enabling businesses to tap into world-class infrastructure without the upfront capital investment, and how this model is fostering growth and resilience across sectors from banking to e-commerce.
Speakers: Finhai Munzara, Interim CEO, Africa Data Centres; Anthony Rossabi, Managing Member, OCOLO.
- Future-Proofing Data Centres: Challenges and Strategies for the Modern Data Centre
As demand for data continues to surge, this panel will explore the future-proofing strategies necessary to ensure data centres remain scalable, sustainable, and secure. From tackling energy consumption challenges to adopting the latest technologies in cooling and automation, the panel will provide insights on how data centres can adapt to meet the ever-changing needs of the modern digital landscape.
Speakers: Naroa Zurutuza, CTO, Giga UNICEF; Olumide Idowu, Group Chief Technology Officer, AlphaBeta Consulting LLP; Adv Mtho Xulu, President, South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Muhammad Naveed Saeed, Vice President – Global Engineering & Delivery, Uptime Institute; Mainza Moono, CCO – Data Centres, Axian Group.
Industry Events & Networking: Where Connections Continue Beyond the Conference
At AfricaCom and throughout the Africa Tech Festival, the day may officially end at 6 PM, but for many, that’s just the beginning. The true value of attending these events lies not only in the formal sessions but also in the chance to network, build partnerships, and engage in meaningful conversations that continue long after the conference hall clears. In fact, some of the most important conversations, partnerships, and deals are made after hours, in relaxed, informal settings that foster true networking and relationship-building.
As Africa’s digital transformation accelerates, fostering connections that drive innovation and growth requires spaces where business can be done informally, where ideas can be exchanged, and deals can be closed – long into the evening.
In recognition of the importance of these connections, You’re Cordially Invited to HAMWE: The Networking Event by TechAfrica News
Hamwe 2024: Back for the 3rd Edition, Even Bigger and Better!
We’re excited to invite you to the third edition of Hamwe, TechAfrica News’ signature networking event, where connections are made, partnerships are forged, and Africa’s digital future is shaped. In the spirit of the Kinyarwanda word hamwe, which means “together,” this special evening reflects our shared belief that unity is the catalyst for driving meaningful progress across the continent.
Date: November 13, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: The Gin Bar
Following the AfricaCom event, Hamwe 2024 will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and change-makers for an unforgettable evening under the vibrant South African skies. It’s a celebration of the power of collaboration — where discussions on connectivity, digital inclusion, and financial empowerment take center stage. This is the place where the future of Africa’s digital landscape begins.
TechAfrica News is committed to fostering an environment where pivotal conversations happen, new ideas are sparked, and transformative partnerships are built. Supported by our amazing sponsors — PROTEI, DEVEO, Wingu Africa, Perception TV, and Africa Data Centres Association— we are setting the stage for an exciting night of networking and innovation.
Last year, we welcomed 270 influential industry professionals from top companies like MTN, Vodacom, Telkom, Roke, Telenor, Orange, Eutelsat, and many more. This year, we’re aiming for an even larger gathering, with more industry giants and influential players joining us to create new avenues for growth and collaboration.
Hamwe 2024 is more than just a networking event. It’s an opportunity to be part of something greater — a collective movement to create a digitally connected, empowered, and thriving Africa. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable night that promises to inspire, connect, and drive Africa’s digital future forward.
Grab Your Exclusive Pass Here!
Meet With Industry Leaders: Exhibitor Spotlight
PortaOne
PortaOne is a renowned software company that specializes in the development of billing, business support, and customer management solutions for telecommunications service providers. Founded in 2002, the company has established itself as a leader in the field of unified communications and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). PortaOne’s versatile and scalable software platforms cater to a wide range of telecom services, including hosted PBX, SIP trunking, and wholesale VoIP, enabling service providers to efficiently manage their operations, billing, and customer interactions. With a global presence, PortaOne’s solutions play a pivotal role in Africa, enhancing the telecommunications industry’s capabilities and service delivery.
Stand: F53
Website: www.portaone.com
PROTEI
PROTEI aims to provide telecom operators with reliable and proven core network components, offering them a seamless path for network modernization and upgrades, while preparing their networks for the next generation of advanced 5G networks. As an alternative vendor, PROTEI brings a breath of fresh air to the industry, fostering healthy competition that is essential for operators in emerging markets. Furthermore, there is a growing demand for core components in the market for constructing private LTE/5G networks to support industry automation.
Stand: B22
Website: https://protei.com/
Ciena
Ciena is a prominent networking solutions provider, offering cutting-edge technologies for high-bandwidth services. Specializing in optical networking and software innovation, Ciena empowers businesses and service providers in Africa to adapt to the demands of a hyper-connected world, ensuring robust and scalable communication networks.
Stand: F20
Website: https://www.ciena.com/
PerceptionTV
PerceptionTV offers Telcos a comprehensive, customizable solution to launch their own branded TV services over their broadband networks. Their flexible Telco TV products eliminate the need for costly, in-house development, adapting to the client’s internal expertise and scaling as needed. This ensures a seamless launch at a fraction of the cost.
In addition, their in-house internet TV service, RAPIDO, is live and ready for deployment. RAPIDO can be tailored with local content and services, allowing clients to enhance their offerings with a relevant, customer-focused TV service delivered over their existing networks.
Stand: A50
Website: www.perception.tv
Openserve
Openserve, a subsidiary of the Telkom Group, is South Africa’s largest telecommunications infrastructure provider, featuring the most extensive fixed broadband network in the country. They offer a wide range of services, including high-speed internet access, wholesale connectivity solutions, and comprehensive network infrastructure. Openserve’s commitment to delivering reliable and scalable connectivity empowers businesses and communities, enabling digital transformation and fostering economic growth throughout South Africa.
Stand: C70
Website: www.openserve.co.za
Stulz
Stulz is a global leader in providing innovative and efficient climate control solutions, specializing in critical infrastructure environments. Their extensive product portfolio includes precision air conditioning systems like the CyberAir series and modular cooling solutions designed for data centres. Stulz also offers the Airstream line of air handling units and advanced control systems to optimize performance. Committed to sustainability, Stulz continually invests in research and development to deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients while minimizing environmental impact.
Stand: E2A
Website: www.stulz.com
Angola Cables
Angola Cables is a leading telecommunications provider that plays a vital role in connecting Africa to the global digital landscape. Specializing in high-capacity international and domestic connectivity solutions, they operate extensive submarine cable systems, including the SACS (South Atlantic Cable System) and WACS (West Africa Cable System), which provide reliable and high-speed internet access. Their services also include data center operations and cloud connectivity solutions, catering to the growing demands for bandwidth and digital services across the continent.
Stand: B80
Website: www.angolacables.co.ao
LINX
LINX, one of the world’s largest and most established Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), connects ISPs, content providers, and network operators, allowing seamless data exchange and bolstered internet performance across networks. By facilitating direct interconnections at major data centres, LINX reduces latency, increases reliability, and drives innovation across the digital ecosystem. Their commitment to robust, secure, and efficient infrastructure helps advance connectivity worldwide, making them a crucial partner in global internet infrastructure.
Stand: C39
Website: www.linx.net
TelcoBridges
Telco Bridges has been a leader in creating high-performance gateways and Session Border Controllers (SBCs) that empower service providers to optimize their networks and enhance communication services. Specializing in advanced telecommunications solutions for VoIP and network management, Telco Bridges facilitates reliable, high-quality voice and data transmission. By bridging gaps in telecommunications infrastructure, they play a vital role in shaping the future of global connectivity.
Stand: D2
Website: www.telcobridges.com
ST Engineering iDirect
ST Engineering iDirect is a global leader in satellite communications, offering cutting-edge solutions to enhance connectivity across broadcast, mobility, and government sectors. With over 35 years of innovation, iDirect delivers reliable, efficient, and high-performance satcom technologies, enabling businesses to optimize networks and expand services worldwide. Visit their booth at AfricaCom to discover how they are shaping the future of global connectivity.
Where: C63
Website: ST Engineering iDirect – Satellite Communications Technology
Intelsat
Intelsat is a global leader in satellite communications, providing integrated solutions that deliver reliable, high-performance connectivity across industries including media, telecom, and government. With over 50 years of experience, Intelsat’s satellite network powers critical services worldwide, enabling seamless communication, data transmission, and content delivery.
Where: D70
Website: Intelsat
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