The Essence of AfricaCom 2024: A Gateway to Africa’s Connected Future
With less than two weeks to go, Africa’s most prominent connectivity event, AfricaCom 2024, is set to open its doors in Cape Town for its 27th edition. Held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from November 12 to 14, this year’s event promises to be an essential gathering for Africa’s connectivity and telecommunications sectors. AfricaCom has long been the continent’s premier stage for industry leaders, tech innovators, and policy makers to come together, share insights, and drive forward Africa’s digital transformation.
As an official media partner, TechAfrica News has had the privilege of covering this transformative event year after year, and we’re thrilled to document the latest developments, breakthroughs, and collaborations that this year’s AfricaCom will bring. There’s palpable excitement across the industry as we convene to explore Africa’s ambitions in digitalization, its strides toward improved connectivity, and its potential to become a powerhouse in the global digital revolution. We look forward to sharing these impactful moments with our audience, capturing AfricaCom’s essence as the gateway to Africa’s connected future.
One Event, Four Agendas: Key Topics and Discussions
This year, AfricaCom 2024 brings a diverse range of agendas that zero in on the core pillars of Africa’s connectivity evolution. The event’s carefully curated topics promise to address the critical opportunities and challenges shaping Africa’s digital future. Here are the four central agendas that will guide the discussions:
AfricaCom Centre Stage
Step into the heart of AfricaCom, where innovations in connectivity, broadcasting, and media are unveiled to drive the continent’s digital journey forward. AfricaCom Centre Stage will spotlight the latest advancements that are propelling Africa into a new digital era, with industry leaders sharing insights and success stories.
Connectivity & Digital Infrastructure
Focused on the journey to achieving universal connectivity, this agenda will explore key initiatives and technological advancements critical to building a digitally inclusive Africa. From expanding networks to enhancing infrastructure for African businesses and societies, this segment will address the pathways to digital access for all.
Telcos of Tomorrow
Explore the trends and innovations that are keeping African telcos at the forefront of the continent’s digital transformation. This agenda will cover everything from evolving business models to emerging technologies, highlighting how telcos are essential to bridging Africa’s connectivity divide.
Data Centres Africa
The foundation of Africa’s digital growth lies in robust data infrastructure. This agenda will dive into the strategies and advancements in data centre technologies that are equipping Africa for a sustainable digital future. The discussions will focus on building a world-class infrastructure tailored to meet the demands of Africa’s growing digital economy.
Must-Attend Panels and Sessions: Spotlight on Key Conversations
At TechAfrica News, our involvement in AfricaCom extends beyond covering the latest developments; this year, we’re actively contributing to the conversation. Our Founder and Chief Editor, Akim Benamara, will be moderating two panels, bringing his insights and extensive experience to the discussion. Having documented Africa’s digital journey closely, we’re excited to take an active role this year, adding our voice to the ongoing dialogue that shapes the continent’s digital future.
The discussions at AfricaCom are setting the stage for transformative advancements in Africa’s connectivity and telecoms landscape, laying a strong foundation for the continent’s role in the global digital economy. We are honoured to actively contribute to this influential dialogue, supporting Africa’s progress in innovation, and sustainable growth.
– Akim Benamara, Founder and Chief Editor, TechAfrica News
- Emerging Technologies Paving the Way for the Future of Connectivity & The Network
Tuesday, November 12, 2024, | 12:20 PM – 1:20 PM | Room 1.41 – Level 1, CTICC 1
With advancements in network infrastructure and digital innovation, speakers will discuss how emerging technologies—such as 5G, satellite connectivity, and cloud-based solutions—are creating new pathways for universal access and digital resilience. This session will also address the critical role of collaboration among telecoms, technology providers, and governments to build a more connected and digitally inclusive 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 & CEO, TechAfrica News.
- Accelerating Economic Prosperity in Africa: Leveraging AI for Sustainable Growth
Tuesday, November 12, 2024, | 2:50 PM – 3:30 PM | Nerina & Protea, Level 1, CTICC 2
In this session, industry experts and policymakers will discuss how AI can be harnessed to address Africa’s unique economic challenges across key sectors like agriculture, healthcare, finance, and education. This panel will delve into actionable strategies for tailoring AI applications to support sustainable growth and foster economic prosperity on the continent.
Speakers: Samwel Magesa, Chief Data Officer, NBC Bank | Darlington Akogo, Founder and CEO, minoHealth AI Labs | Akim Benamara, Founder & CEO, TechAfrica News | Dr. Prince Abudu, Head of Technology – Artificial Intelligence, Cassava AI | Thabo Makenete, Head of Public Policy, Southern Africa, Meta.
- Connecting Africa’s Next Billion: Scaling Africa’s Digital Infrastructure
Tuesday, November 12, 2024, | 3:40 PM – 4:10 PM | 1.41 – Level 1, CTICC 1
Moderated by Akim Benamara, Founder & Chief Editor of TechAfrica News, the session will address the critical question: What does it take to foster investment in scalable digital infrastructure to ensure connectivity for all?
Speakers: Akim Benamara, Founder and CEO, TechAfrica News | Tobechukwu Okigbo, Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer (CSSO), MTN Nigeria.
- Driving Innovation: How 4G and 5G Will Revolutionize Connectivity in Africa
Wednesday, November 13, 2024, | 12:30 PM – 1:10 PM | AfricaCom Centre Stage – Hall 3, CTICC 1 Exhibition
This panel delves into the transformative potential of 4G and 5G technologies in reshaping connectivity across Africa. Another key focus will be on affordability—panellists will explore initiatives like the African Digital Development Strategy aimed at reducing internet costs, ensuring more people across the continent can access fast, reliable internet.
Speakers: Davide Tacchino, Managing Executive: Terminals, Vodacom SA (Pty) Ltd | 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
Wednesday, November 13, 2024, | 2:10 PM – 3:10 PM | AfricaCom Centre Stage – Hall 3, CTICC 1 Exhibition
This panel will focus on strategies to bridge the digital divide, exploring innovative ways to bring reliable, affordable internet access to all regions. Leaders in telecom, policy, and technology will discuss how public-private partnerships, infrastructure investments, and satellite technology can play key roles in driving connectivity.
Speakers: Alpheus Mangale, Group CEO, SEACOM | Yvonne Mashuda, Ag. Head of Wholesale, Tigo Tanzania | 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, Transport/Transmission, AT Ghana | Philippe Baudrier, VP Connectivity Africa, Eutelsat/OneWeb
- Untapped Potential: Broadband Access Solutions for Africa’s Rural Communities
Wednesday, November 13, 2024, | 2:45 PM – 3:45 PM | 1.41 – Level 1, CTICC 1
This panel addresses the ongoing challenges of expanding broadband access to Africa’s remote areas, where obstacles like coverage gaps, high device costs, and affordability continue to hinder connectivity.
Speakers: Thobile Mbatha, Deputy CIO, eThekwini Municipality | Emmanuel Owusu, CTO, AT Ghana | Tinuade Oguntuyi, GM Technical, Information Connectivity Solutions | Flenk Mnisi, COO, Sentech | Shireen Powell, CEO, Project Isizwe.
- 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
Discussions will focus on how investment in cross-industry collaborations is unlocking new value, enhancing business operations, and revolutionizing traditional partnership models—particularly through the role of MVNOs in expanding connectivity options
Speakers: Tinuade Oguntuyi, GM Technical, 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
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.
Website: www.portaone.com
LinkedIn: PortaOne
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.
Website: Protei
LinkedIn: Protei LinkedIn
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.
Website: Ciena
LinkedIn: Ciena LinkedIn
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.
Meet PerceptionTV at AfricaCom 2024!
Website: www.perception.tv
LinkedIn: PerceptionTV
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.
Website: www.openserve.co.za
LinkedIn: Openserve LinkedIn
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, energy-efficient chillers such as the ECO 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.
Website: www.stulz.com
LinkedIn: Stulz LinkedIn
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.
Website: www.angolacables.co.ao
LinkedIn: Angola Cables
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.
Website: www.linx.net
LinkedIn: Linx
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.
Website: www.telcobridges.com
LinkedIn: TelcoBridges
Make sure to visit these exhibitors at AfricaCom 2024!
Progress in Africa’s Digital Transformation: Uniting Strengths for a Shared Vision
Africa’s journey toward digital transformation is a collaborative effort, where each stakeholder brings a critical piece to the puzzle. Governments, the private sector, tech innovators, and civil society all play interconnected roles, building a unified digital ecosystem that serves the continent. Government policies and infrastructure investment lay the groundwork, the private sector contributes funding and expertise, tech innovators develop locally adapted solutions, and civil society ensures these advances reach all communities.
Events like AfricaCom are vital to this journey, acting as platforms where these diverse players come together to exchange ideas and build partnerships. Here, conversations spark new insights, and collaborations form around shared challenges and opportunities, propelling sustainable digital progress.
The impact of AfricaCom extends beyond the event itself. As participants return to their respective roles, they carry with them fresh perspectives and valuable connections, which strengthen Africa’s digital landscape. These collaborations create a framework that not only addresses today’s challenges but prepares for future needs, setting Africa on a resilient and inclusive path toward digital advancement.
In an ecosystem as dynamic as Africa’s, no single entity can drive digital transformation alone. AfricaCom brings stakeholders together under a shared vision of sustainable, impactful progress—one that reaches every community across the continent.
We’re back with Hamwe 2024: Networking Night by TechAfrica News
Date: November 13, 2024, | Location: The Gin Bar, Cape town, South Africa
Recognizing the importance of coming together to strengthen the foundation for digital transformation in Africa through collaboration and shared vision, we are proud to present the third edition our networking night.
Join us for the third edition of our highly anticipated networking event, Hamwe, held right after the AfricaCom event. Inspired by the Kinyarwanda word “hamwe,” meaning “together,” this evening captures the spirit of unity and shared vision as we convene industry leaders under the starry South African sky. Hamwe serves as a gathering point for thought leaders, innovators, and influencers who believe in the transformative power of partnerships to drive connectivity, digital inclusion, and financial empowerment across Africa.
More than just an event, Hamwe embodies TechAfrica News’ commitment to fostering an environment where pivotal conversations happen, connections are forged, and new ideas are ignited. Here, attendees will find a welcoming space to share insights and envision collective solutions for a connected Africa. We invite you to be part of this special night and contribute to the momentum for positive change across the continent.
We are thrilled to have incredible partners and sponsors supporting this year’s edition of the Networking Night. A heartfelt thank you to Africa Data Centres Association, Perception TV, PROTEI, Wingu Africa, DEVEO, and Invictus 46664.
Last year, 270 attendees gathered , including executives from industry giants like MTN, Vodacom, Telkom, Roke, Telenor, Orange, Eutelsat, Intelsat, Paratus, and other leading players.
This year’s HAMWE Networking Night promises to attract an even broader and more influential audience, reinforcing our commitment to collaboration and shared visions for Africa’s digital transformation. Join us in this special gathering and be a part of the momentum driving positive change across the continent!
Restaurants to Visit: Top Nearby Spots to Dine and Connect
We know the importance of a relaxed spot to connect with prospects and clients, so we’ve handpicked a few top restaurants near the AfricaCom venue. These locations offer the perfect mix of ambiance and convenience, ensuring you have an ideal setting to unwind, discuss ideas, and build new connections. Enjoy the flavours of Cape Town while making the most of your networking!
GIN BAR
A hidden gem on Wale Street, The Gin Bar is a haven for gin lovers, offering an impressive variety of gin cocktails and botanicals in a laid-back atmosphere. This cozy spot is perfect for winding down or enjoying a lively evening.
Website: theginbar.co.za
Zuney Wagyu Burgers
Known for delivering the best burgers in town, Zuney Wagyu on Kloof Street is a go-to for a quick bite packed with flavor. Using premium wagyu beef, these burgers redefine a quick snack with quality ingredients and unforgettable taste.
Website: zuneywagyu.com/burgers
Kloof Street House
Set within a charming Victorian house, Kloof Street House combines eclectic decor with a Mediterranean-inspired menu, creating an intimate and stylish dining experience. It’s an ideal spot for date nights or a relaxed dinner with friends.
Website: kloofstreethouse.co.za
Nikkei
For those seeking a unique culinary fusion, Nikkei delivers with its Japanese-Peruvian flavors. This restaurant brings bold tastes and exquisite presentation to the table, making it a standout in Cape Town’s dining scene.
Website: nikkei.co.za
The Athletic Club & Social
The Athletic Club & Social offers a multi-level experience of food, drinks, and live music. With its dynamic ambiance and handcrafted cocktails, it’s the perfect venue to enjoy a lively night out in Cape Town.
Website: theathletic.co.za
