From November 6 to 8, the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024 brought together business leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC 2). Under the theme “United by Innovation,” the summit highlighted a central issue: the urgent need to showcase African projects and businesses on the global stage to solidify Africa’s role as a key player in the global economy.
Deputy Minister Raesetja Jane Sithole, in her opening remarks, emphasized that Africa’s sustainable development relies on making its initiatives visible. “Our mission is to ensure that Africa’s innovative projects are recognized and supported. This not only strengthens our economy but positions the continent as a key actor in global transformation,” she stated. This vision was reinforced by panels addressing how to overcome structural barriers that limit African businesses’ access to capital and international markets.
The event, organized in collaboration with RLabs, showcased local initiatives that exemplify African ingenuity and resilience. Leaders such as Julia Price of Linea Capital and Tomiwa Aladekomo of Big Cabal Media discussed strategies to attract investment and build global partnerships that amplify the reach of African innovative solutions. These sessions underscored the commitment of the continent’s leaders to creating frameworks that enhance African competitiveness in sectors such as the digital economy, sustainability, and technology.
Technology hubs and makerspaces also took center stage as essential tools for showcasing the continent’s talent and capabilities. Tochukwu Chukwueke of the Clintonel Innovation Centre highlighted the importance of connecting these platforms with global players, ensuring that local innovations have an impact beyond their immediate communities. This approach reflects African leaders’ determination to position the continent at the heart of the international dialogue on innovation.
As the AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024 concluded, it became evident that African leaders not only recognize the wealth of ideas and projects within the continent but are also taking concrete steps to ensure these initiatives gain the global attention they deserve. AfriLabs reaffirmed its commitment to leading this effort by connecting African entrepreneurs with the opportunities needed to transform the narrative of Africa in the global economy.