Keynotes
|
Saturday
|
9:05 am
Klarman Hall
Diverse

Building Africa’s Digital Infrastructure to Spur the Next Decade of Innovation

Africa is in the midst of a digital revolution: approximately 473 million Africans are online, and an additional 300 million will likely join them by 2025. Average download speeds in Africa doubled between 2015 and 2019, while data costs halved. Underpinning this growth is the installation of digital infrastructure (fiber optics, data centers, and more) -  Africa has witnessed notable strides in digital infrastructure development, with increased investments in 4G and 5G technology. In an era where digital connectivity has become the linchpin of economic progress, what will it take for Africa to compete in the global digital economy? 

In this keynote panel, we will hear from the folks building that infrastructure and deploying. The session will share insights into bridging Africa's digital divide, navigating the impact of these technological advancements on the continent's innovation landscape, as well as delve into discussions on financing structures, inclusivity in access, digital economic transformation, and the pivotal role of government policies.

Building Africa’s Digital Infrastructure to Spur the Next Decade of Innovation

Africa is in the midst of a digital revolution: approximately 473 million Africans are online, and an additional 300 million will likely join them by 2025. Average download speeds in Africa doubled between 2015 and 2019, while data costs halved. Underpinning this growth is the installation of digital infrastructure (fiber optics, data centers, and more) -  Africa has witnessed notable strides in digital infrastructure development, with increased investments in 4G and 5G technology. In an era where digital connectivity has become the linchpin of economic progress, what will it take for Africa to compete in the global digital economy? 

In this keynote panel, we will hear from the folks building that infrastructure and deploying. The session will share insights into bridging Africa's digital divide, navigating the impact of these technological advancements on the continent's innovation landscape, as well as delve into discussions on financing structures, inclusivity in access, digital economic transformation, and the pivotal role of government policies.

America/New_York
Feb 17, 2024 9:05 AM
Klarman Hall

Other Sessions

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Lunches
Saturday
|
12:25 pm
Aldrich 010
Sponsor Informational Lunch: CH Group
Sponsor informational lunch.
More Info

Sponsor Informational Lunch: CH Group

The sponsor informational lunch will include a company presentation and the opportunity to connect with some of the company's executives.

America/New_York
Feb 17, 2024 12:25 PM
Aldrich 010
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Breakout 3
Saturday
|
3:45 pm
Aldrich 109
Mapping the Way Forward: African Businesses in a Globalized World
Can Africa leverage unique and innovative partnership models to claim its rightful seat at the global economic table?
More Info

Mapping the Way Forward: African Businesses in a Globalized World

While the global economy thrives on interconnectedness, Africa's participation in both global production and trade remains a mere glimpse on the grand stage. This underrepresentation extends beyond the world arena, with intra-African trade lagging behind every other continent. In this era of strategic alliances driving trade flows and innovation, the crucial question emerges: can Africa leverage unique and innovative partnership models to claim its rightful seat at the global economic table?


Navigating strategic global alliances within the continent and beyond with China and the US will significantly impact the African business ecosystem. These alliances can give African businesses access to new markets, capital, technology, and expertise. They can also help African businesses to improve their efficiency and competitiveness. How should African businesses position to create jobs, boost trade, promote innovation, and build sustainable global businesses through these alliances?


America/New_York
Feb 17, 2024 3:45 PM
Aldrich 109
More Info
Lunches
Saturday
|
12:25 pm
Aldrich 008
Sponsor Informational Lunch: Tlcom Capital
Sponsor informational lunch
More Info

Sponsor Informational Lunch: Tlcom Capital

The sponsor informational lunch will include a company presentation and the opportunity to connect with some of the company's executives.

America/New_York
Feb 17, 2024 12:25 PM
Aldrich 008