Africa, with its abundant economic potential and widespread adoption of digital technology, stands at the threshold of explosive growth. The continent’s digital transformation, particularly in the business sector, has been remarkable, driven by innovative entrepreneurs and a growing tech ecosystem.
However, as Africa prepares to embrace this digital revolution, challenges, especially in the energy sector, remain significant hurdles. The 2023 Africa Tech Festival, scheduled from 13 to 16 November in Cape Town, promises to shed light on these challenges while showcasing innovative solutions.
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With over 200 speakers, including government ministers from various African nations, the event aims to address critical issues hindering Africa’s tech progress.
James Williams, director of events at Connecting Africa, emphasised the pivotal role of the public sector in fostering technological advancement. “The incredible advantages of digitalisation are dependent on a plentiful and reliable source of power, and it’s essential that the public sector has strong strategies in place to drive this growth,” he said.
One of the pressing issues to be discussed at the festival is the energy crisis. Gwede Mantashe, South Africa’s minister of mineral resources and energy, and Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, the country’s minister in the presidency responsible for electricity, will address the critical problem of load shedding.
The festival will feature a panel discussion titled “Universal power access: Plotting a route through Africa’s electricity challenge,” which aims to explore collaborative solutions involving both public and private funding. Currently, 30 out of Africa’s 54 nations face daily power shortages and supply interruptions, hindering economic growth and innovation.
Public sector engagement with the tech industry will also be a focal point of the festival. The keynote panel, “Unleashing digital prosperity: How progressive policy is shaping Africa’s tech transformation,” will provide African ministers with a platform to share their unique policy approaches and the need for a collaborative continental effort.
In addition to addressing these and other challenges, the Africa Tech Festival will feature sessions on various topics such as addressing the needs of underserved communities, the business applications of 5G FWA in Africa, and the evolving role of satellites in online connectivity.
For more information about the Africa Tech Festival 2023, visit the official website here.
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