AfricaCom Day 2 : Africa’s Digital Roadmap

The second day of AfricaCom 2024 has come and gone, and the energy was as high as ever.  Building on the energy of day one, attendees explored deeper conversations, connecting over pressing issues and breakthrough solutions that will drive the continent’s connectivity and digital infrastructure forward. From high-level presentations and panels to hands-on exhibits, the event showcased a broad spectrum of ideas, each aimed at making a tangible impact across Africa. The second day strengthened connections, expanded understanding, and showcased a commitment to inclusive digital growth that promises to reshape Africa’s future.

For our team at TechAfrica News, it was an incredibly busy day—connecting with exhibitors, engaging with industry leaders, and uncovering fresh insights on what these innovators have planned for Africa. As usual, we also had the opportunity to speak with industry leaders and exhibitors, gaining valuable insights into their groundbreaking work in Africa’s digital landscape. We extend our sincere thanks to all those who took the time to engage with us, sharing their expertise, innovations, and visions for the future of connectivity and technology across the continent.

And it wasn’t just about the sessions and exhibitions; In the evening, we also hosted our much-anticipated networking event, the third edition of Hamwe. With over 200+ attendees from diverse sectors, including industry leaders and key stakeholders, Hamwe2024 was truly an exceptional gathering. It was a memorable night filled with valuable connections, newly formed partnerships, and exciting opportunities. The energy was electric, and the exchange of ideas and experiences was inspiring. Stay tuned as we bring you more updates on the event’s success, along with photos, videos, and highlights of the impactful collaborations that emerged.

On the sidelines of AfricaCom:

South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Hon. Solly Malatsi, has announced preliminary discussions with the Treasury to explore reducing taxes on smartphones. This initiative aims to make smartphones more affordable for the public, aligning with the country’s plan to phase out outdated 2G and 3G networks. He highlighted that reducing smartphone costs is vital for broadening digital access across South Africa as the nation readies itself for a transition to advanced network technologies.

This theme of accessibility and innovation continued as Console Connect and Africa Data Centres have joined forces to enhance secure, efficient data connectivity between key data centres and cloud infrastructure across Africa. Signed at the Africa Tech Festival 2024, this strategic partnership marks a major step in addressing Africa’s growing demand for seamless data movement within its digital ecosystem.

Also, African ministers in a panel discussion underscored the importance of public-private collaboration to advance the continent’s tech sector and economic growth, despite concerns from companies like Meta over regulatory constraints. Meta’s Public Policy Director, Fargani Tambeayuk, warned that restrictive policies might hinder innovation, especially in AI. He cited Cameroon’s requirement that subsea cable providers work through mobile operators as a “monopoly” that complicates connectivity expansion, highlighting the tension between regulatory frameworks and tech-driven growth in Africa.

Finally, Google’s Charles Murito emphasized that regulating AI should focus on its specific applications across industries rather than attempting to control the technology itself. He argued that AI, much like electricity in its early days, holds transformative potential across multiple sectors and should be harnessed thoughtfully to drive growth without stifling innovation. By focusing on industry-specific use cases, Murito suggested, African regulators can maximize AI’s benefits while addressing sector-specific concerns, allowing AI to advance responsibly across the continent.

Day Three: Panels and Key Sessions to Look Out For

As we approach the final day of AfricaCom 2024, here are some key sessions to look forward to:

• Panel: Bridging the Connectivity Gap with Collaboration: How Telco Partnerships Will Drive Innovation in Africa

Thursday, November 14, 2024, | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM | 1.61 & 1.62 – Level 1, CTICC 1 | AfricaCom: Telcos of Tomorrow |

Speakers: Tinuade Oguntuyi: Head Network & Solutions, Information Connectivity Solutions | Lisa Meng: Senior Advisor, UNICEF Giga | Tony Izuagbe Emoekpere: President, Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) | Martin Petkov: COO, Effortel Technologies SA | Solomon Kofi Richardson: Director of Technical Services, National Information Technology Agency | Linda Oniwe: Senior Vice President, TMT SA, Investment Banking, Standard Bank

This session will explore how telco partnerships are reshaping the industry, enabling business operations, and fostering collaboration across industries to drive future connectivity.

• Panel: The Future of Collaboration: Forming Key Partnerships to Revolutionize Connectivity Throughout Africa

Thursday, November 14, 2024, | 12:25 PM – 1:25 PM | 1.41 & 1.42 – Level 1, CTICC 1 | AfricaCom: Connectivity & Digital Infrastructure | Paid Content

Speakers: Thomas Bruns: Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Middle East and Africa, U.S. Department of Commerce | Gabriella Powell: Communications Manager, Unconnected.org | Siobhan Thatcher: Head of Education, Project Isizwe | Sandile Nzima: ICT Specialist, Development Bank of Southern Africa | Bradley Shaw: Vice President – Middle East and Africa, Lynk

Join this panel to hear how strategic partnerships are vital for advancing connectivity across Africa, leveraging international collaboration and local expertise to bring robust infrastructure to the region.

• Panel: ‘Excluding Accessibility Limits My World’ – Promoting Accessible Technology, Products, and Services

Thursday, November 14, 2024, | 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM | AfricaCom Centre Stage – Hall 3, CTICC 1 Exhibition | AfricaCom: Centre Stage | Free Access

Speakers: Dr. Karen Smit: Accessibility Lead, Vodacom Group | Dirkie Ebersohn: Content Development Manager, National Institute for the Deaf | Lynette Victor: Chief Sign Language Centre Officer, National Institute for the Deaf | Carol Hall: Managing Executive, Western Region, Vodacom South Africa | Dr. Michelle Botha: Post-doctoral Research Fellow, University of Stellenbosch | Tsepo Ntaopane: Executive Head of External Affairs & Regulatory, Vodacom Lesotho | Benedict Khumalo: Learning Designer, University of Cape Town

This panel underscores the importance of accessible technology to foster inclusion, especially for persons with disabilities, highlighting advancements in accessible communication.

• The New Frequency: Exploring Africa’s Role in Podcasting, Technology, and Business Innovation

Thursday, November 14, 2024, | 11:40 AM – 12:00 PM | AfricaCom Centre Stage – Hall 3, CTICC 1 Exhibition | AfricaCom: Centre Stage | Free Access

Speakers: Jon Savage: CEO, AFRICA PODCAST NETWORK | Thato Rampedi: Digital Entrepreneur/Founder, Rampedi Media

Discover Africa’s emerging influence in global podcasting and its connection to ad technology and business growth, positioning Africa as a leader in digital media innovation.

Stay Connected

As we look forward to the final day of AfricaCom 2024, the momentum from these impactful discussions is set to drive even more exciting conversations and insights. From transformative partnerships to innovations in accessibility and Africa’s evolving role in global podcasting, each panel has shed light on the continent’s digital future.

Stay tuned as we bring you exclusive updates from our conversations with industry leaders, capturing their visions and strategies for Africa’s continued digital transformation.