UNVEILING THE FUTURE OF TECH: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE AFRICA eDIGITAL CONNECT SUMMIT 2024.

The Africa eDigital Connect Summit is a premier gathering of innovators, digital leaders and industry professionals, showcasing the future of technology across the African continent. Held annually, the summit serves as a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas, discussing emerging trends and fostering collaborations that drive digital transformation in Africa. This year’s edition was held on 2nd October to 4th October hosted at the Edge Convention Center, brought together thought leaders, entrepreneurs and policymakers to explore groundbreaking innovations in areas such as fintech, e-commerce, AI and sustainable development.

The stage was set by Eugene Muchai, moderating a discussion on the future of Africa’s digital transformation. The first day set the stage for what promises to be a transformative event, sparking conversations on how Africa can leverage technology for sustainable growth and equitable development. From data and climate fintech to project management and digital governance, the speakers provided valuable insights into the different aspects of digital transformation that are shaping Africa's future.

The speakers included Pamela Adede, a computer data scientist with a passion for leveraging data to drive innovation, Florence Kamau, an experienced risk analyst, Bella Namango, a private manager at the British Council and Ester Muthoni, a project manager and health sector specialist, all of whom shared their unique perspectives on digital progress across various sectors. The event also featured a vibrant panel, including Jel Ikinya, an emerging thought leader in digital governance and advocate for citizen engagement; Bilie Nyakwa, a lawyer and podcaster, Sydney Javan, a global cybersecurity expert, Melanie Keita, a climate fintech entrepreneur and Stephen Muasya, a governance, risk and compliance expert. Together, they provided a comprehensive look at the opportunities and challenges in Africa's digital landscape.

Also an (MOU) was signed between the eDigital Connect Summit and women in Technology and Inovation Africa. The partnership signifies a major leap foward in empowering and liberating the african woman into tech. It represents a collaborative effort to open up new opportunities, break barriers and support women across the continent in fields traditionally dominated by men, such as technology and innovation: This initaitive marks a critical turning point, fostering progress and creating a more inclusive and equal future for African Women in the digital age. Here to connecting, learning and interacting with women in tech.

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Day 2 of the Africa eDigital Connect Summit was a powerhouse of innovation and inspiration, expertly moderated by the ever-stunning Miss Githinji. From digital economy experts to content creators and growth strategists provided attendees with the tools they need to thrive in Africa’s digital future. Whether it was advice on building a personal brand, growing a startup, or innovating for the future, every session left attendees motivated to take action.

Mumbi Ndung'u an Executive Director and Co-Founder of the PowerLearn Project, shared her insights on the importance of digital skills in shaping Africa's future. Leon Kiptum from the Association of Fintechs in Kenya painted a vivid picture of the fintech landscape in Africa, while digital creator and trainer Elvis Warutumo brought a creative edge to the conversation, discussing the opportunities for content creators in this digital age. Vinod Sharma a financial technology expert and innovator, rounded off the speaker session by diving deep into how fintech is evolving and the role of innovation in financial inclusivity.

The energy didn’t stop there. The afternoon was filled with an engaging panel discussion featuring dynamic individuals from various fields. Vick Mure, a creative director and mentor, led the way with insights on creativity in the digital space. Stephen Gatei founder Mwalimu Connect, spoke passionately about empowering educators through digital platforms. Matt Magera co-founder of Jobzy and Georginah Giathi an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, highlighted the legal and job market landscapes, while Beniah co-founder of PayD, and Muriuki Collins CEO of Terra, shared their innovative approaches to payment solutions and digital transformation. Opany Bonface founder of Hima Pay, and Martin Ndlovu Chief Officer of Gebeya, explored the future of digital payments and the gig economy. In addition to that, Wilhard Don Nalisi a digital marketing strategist, along with personal branding expert Miss Muthoni, emphasized the importance of digital presence and branding, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn.

As the day wound down, the evening panel on content creation featured two prominent figures: Cris Njoki founder of Ikojn and Daddie Marto a content creator and tech influencer. They discussed the evolving role of content creators in Africa’s digital space and how content can be used to build brands, tell authentic African stories, and influence public opinion.

Both Cris and Daddie highlighted the importance of consistency, creativity, and staying true to one’s message in the digital content space. Daddie Marto added, “As a content creator, your platform is your voice use it wisely, whether you're advocating for a cause or promoting a brand.”who shared their experiences in digital creation and influencing. Their stories of leveraging social platforms to build brands and drive engagement left the audience motivated and ready to apply these lessons to their own digital journeys.

The Second day ended on a high note to because our attendees got a chance a tablet through the raffle tickets hence CTW awarded a JKUAT student the tablet who had been sponsered by Women in Technology and Innovation Africa.?

On the final day of the Summit touched on Tech solution to creative innovations. Attendees were treated to an engaging lineup of speakers and panelists, expertly moderated by the dynamic Natasha Musyoki. The day began with inspiring insights from our keynote speaker Dr. Julian Rowa, a renowned scholar-practitioner and blockchain advisor, who set the stage for a rich discussion on the transformative power of technology in Africa. Accompanied by Mercy Sega managing partner at KM Advocate who followed suit, emphasizing that law doesn't have to be complicated, reminding us that? it is here to serve and protect and that there is need of it being simplified for every Kenyan Creative.

The highlight of the day was an insightful panel featuring a diverse group of experts, including Enock Kabale Co-Founder Jobzy, Moses Liech the Co-founder and CEO of Investa Farm and James Owino a business growth developer. Dominic Kata- an innovator and entrepreneur and Ibrahim Aziza a web3 impact leader.

The discussion was further enriched by voices like Felix Omwansa and Wilson Ngunjiri, along with Sharola Odipo-founder of Women in AI Africa. Mwaneki Mageria business development director and emcee, kept the energy high as environmentalist Lamech Opiyo and Desmond Tutu, a climate reputation risk advisor contributed vital perspectives on sustainability. The lineup also included Stephine Ngutah the CEO of Mama Fua App, Mercy Wambua an advocate specializing in data protection and AI, Wilson Rading an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and chair of the AI Committee at the Robotics Society of Kenya, and Mwangi Munga, also an advocate of the High Court of Kenya.

As the summit drew to a close, the conversations highlighted the critical intersection of technology, sustainability and social responsibility leaving attendees inspired and ready to embrace the future of Africa’s digital landscape.

Certainly! Attending the Africa eDigital Connect Summit regularly not only keeps you updated with latest advancements in digital technology but also allows you to continuosly expand your network and knowledge.

The organization consistently brings together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore the future of digital transformation across the continent. With insightful discussions, cutting-edge technologies and unparalleled networking opportunities. The summit is a must-attend event for anyone invested in Africa's digital evolution. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, entrepreneur or policymaker, the summit provides valuable knowledge and connections that can drive real impact.

Don’t miss out—make sure to attend every time it’s announced and be part of Africa’s digital revolution