Hamwe 2024 Networking Night Recap: Bridging Connections and Celebrating Africa’s Digital Journey
Let's recap another successful Hamwe Networking Night with TechAfrica News!
On November 13, 2024, TechAfrica News proudly hosted the third edition of its Signature Networking Night, Hamwe 2024, during the AfricaCom 2024 event. This annual gathering brought together industry leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts for an unforgettable evening of networking, collaboration, and celebration.
As its name implies, Hamwe—meaning “together” in Kinyarwandan—truly embodied the spirit of unity. It was an inspiring night where partnerships were forged, ideas were exchanged, and the transformative power of Africa’s digital ecosystem was celebrated.
The vibrant exchanges in the room highlighted the diversity and drive towards shaping Africa’s digital transformation, with meaningful conversations fostering collaboration and inspiring bold ideas for the future.
At TechAfrica News, we, alongside our valued sponsors and partners, were thrilled with the incredible turnout and the vibrant energy that filled the room. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the co-hosts who helped us bring this vision to life once again: African Data Centres Association , Perception TV , Protei , Wingu Africa , DEVEO , and Invictus 46664
Hamwe has become more than just a networking event; it’s a celebration of Africa’s potential and progress in the tech ecosystem. We are deeply thankful to our co-hosts and everyone who joined us for making this a night to remember. Together, we are shaping the future of connectivity, innovation, and inclusivity in Africa.
– Akim Benamara, Founder and Chief Editor, TechAfrica News
Over 200 Attendees Strong –A Full House of Possibilities
Hamwe 2024 was a night that exceeded all expectations, with over 200 attendees packing the room to connect, collaborate, and chart the future of Africa’s tech ecosystem. The conversations were engaging, sparking ideas and opportunities that felt truly impactful. As always, Hamwe lived up to its name by creating a space where all sides of the tech ecosystem could meet. And when such diverse minds gather, magic happens. This year, we saw unexpected partnerships spring to life, including two execs who, after a chance meeting, decided to explore a partnership. While we can’t share the details just yet, it’s moments like these that highlight the power of Hamwe—where collaboration feels less like a formal agreement and more like a natural event unfolding.
But Hamwe isn’t just about business and professional conversations. Beyond the formalities, the night offered a platform for forging authentic human connections. In the laid-back atmosphere, laughter mixed with strategy, and a shared drink often opened doors to the kind of innovative ideas that could change the game entirely.
The venue itself played a role in the evening’s success. Hosted at The Gin Bar, known for its intimate ambience and exceptional selection of local gins and bubbly wines, the venue provided the perfect backdrop for a night of creativity. The Gin Bar offered attendees more than just a meeting place—it delivered an experience. Every detail mirrored the innovative spirit of Africa, creating a memorable setting for the evening’s vibrant interactions, from the inviting atmosphere to the refined flavors.
Conversations Over Cocktails: Industry Voices at Hamwe 2024
Throughout the evening, our founder and chief editor, Akim Benamara, engaged with representatives from our esteemed partners to capture their reflections on the event and the broader tech ecosystem.
Protei on Emerging Trends, and the Future of Africa’s Digital Landscape
Daria Obukova, International Business Development Director at Protei shared insights into the evolving digital landscape and how her company is leading the charge in Africa’s digital transformation.
Daria highlighted the emerging trends that are shaping the telecommunications industry, including the rise of private networks, robotics, and artificial intelligence. For Protei, staying at the forefront of these changes means focusing on 5G stand-alone solutions, particularly for industries like ports, mining, and logistics. While many operators are still hesitant to make stand-alone investments, Protei is capitalizing on the need for advanced networks and providing clients with state-of-the-art technologies tailored to their specific needs.
As a long-time partner of the Hamwe Networking Night, Daria expressed her continued support and enthusiasm for the event, which has grown significantly since its inception.
“The evening is marvelous as usual—spectacular and lovely. It’s becoming bigger each year, and while I love this place, we might need a larger venue soon!”
– Daria Obukova, International Business Development Director at Protei
Perception TV on Streaming Solutions and Africa’s Market Opportunities
At our third annual Hamwe Networking Night, we had the pleasure of speaking with John Mills, CEO of Perception TV, about the evolving streaming landscape in Africa and the exciting opportunities it presents.
Reflecting on AfricaCom 2024, John highlighted how Perception TV’s cost-effective and scalable solutions are tailored for Africa’s unique market dynamics, emphasizing partnerships with telcos, ISPs, and MVNOs to deliver affordable streaming services. “Our low-cost delivery model allows us to thrive in low ARPU markets, providing sustainable business cases for the continent,” he noted.
As one of our valued co-hosts for the evening, John shared his thoughts on the event: “A perfect balance of business and enjoyment with quality connections and unique touches like the Perception TV CDN cocktail!”
Wingu Africa on Data Centers, Connectivity and Africa’s Digital Transformation
Freddy Mrema, Group Director of Enterprise Sales and Marketing at Wingu Africa, discussed the vital role of data centers and connectivity in driving Africa’s digital transformation. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in the data center sector, particularly with network providers and content delivery networks, to meet the continent’s growing demand for digital services.
On Connectivity and Digital Transformation, he emphasized that data centers and strong connectivity are key to Africa’s digital progress, supporting essential services like business, education, and healthcare. With over 50% of Africa’s population under 30, data centers are crucial for storing and managing the vast amounts of data driving innovation, especially in sectors like AI.
Freddy also praised the Hamwe Networking Night at AfricaCom 2024, calling it a perfect setting for relaxation and meaningful networking with partners and potential clients. Wingu Africa is excited to continue supporting the event to foster future collaborations.
“I think the idea of Hamwe is amazing. Day one and day two are busy with meetings, trying to close deals and ensure we’ve connected. But in the evening, you get the chance to relax, converse, meet partners, potential customers, and network. It’s a fantastic concept, and we love it. This is our first time sponsoring, and we look forward to continuing to sponsor because it allows us to relax while still engaging with stakeholders and future customers.”
– Freddy Mrema, Group Director of Enterprise Sales and Marketing, Wingu Africa
Africa Data Centres Association on Collaboration and Community in the Digital Age
Our founder and chief editor, Akim Benamara, had a chat with Mary Kariuki, Marketing Manager for Digital Infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa at the Africa Data Centres Association, during the event. Mary shared her enthusiasm about AfricaCom, highlighting its role in bringing together digital infrastructure practitioners to engage in meaningful discussions and panels. She described it as an exciting opportunity for the association’s members to connect and share insights, all while celebrating the industry’s progress.
Mary also touched on her association’s recent event, “Neighbors in the Digital Age,” which explored the societal role of data centers. She proudly noted its success, attributing it to the strong partnerships the association values deeply.
Turning the spotlight to Hamwe 2024, Mary expressed her gratitude for being a co-host, describing the evening as a welcome reprieve after a busy week at AfricaCom.
“After a busy week at AfricaCom, it feels great to come together as digital infrastructure practitioners to unwind, engage in discussions, and enjoy the scenery and bar. We’re glad to be partners in this and look forward to continuing this collaboration in the future.”
– Mary Kariuki, Marketing Manager for Digital Infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa at the Africa Data Centres Association
Indeed, A Night to Remember: Celebrating Connections and Africa’s Potential
As the night drew to a close, one thing was clear: Hamwe 2024 wasn’t just a networking event. It was a celebration of Africa’s potential and a reminder of what’s possible when we come together. This year set a new benchmark, and we couldn’t be prouder to be at the forefront of such meaningful moments.
Here’s to Hamwe—and to all the connections and collaborations it continues to inspire.
