Celebrating Innovation and Collaboration in Africa’s Tech Ecosystem: Gitex Africa 2024 Post-Event Overview
The second edition of Africa’s premier tech and startup event, Gitex Africa 2024, concluded successfully in
Marrakech, Morocco, on May 31st, 2024. This landmark event, spanning three days, attracted an impressive turnout
with over 30,000 visitors from across the continent and the globe. It hosted 1,500 exhibitors from 130 countries and
nearly 700 startups, showcasing the incredible growth and potential of Africa’s tech sector. The substantial
participation in Gitex Africa 2024 highlighted the event’s stature as a crucial hub for innovation,
networking, and
collaboration.
One year later, as we gather here, GITEX AFRICA has doubled in size. We now occupy 20 halls. GITEX AFRICA in Morocco
is not only the largest tech and startup show in Africa, but it is also now comparable to, if not larger than, some
of the biggest and most renowned tech and startup shows in Europe.
Trixie LohMirmand, CEO, GITEX Africa organizer Kaoun
TechAfrica News was on the ground, providing extensive coverage of the event’s key highlights and captivating
moments. During the event, our team deployed a comprehensive strategy to ensure that our audience received up-to-the-minute updates and
exclusive insights —engaging with participants, interviewing industry experts and exhibitors,
attending
sessions, and capturing the pulse of the event.
Gitex Africa 2024 has once again proven to be an unparalleled platform for fostering essential collaborations
between the private and public sectors. With over 30,000 visitors from diverse corners of the globe, this event has
brought together key stakeholders on an impressive scale. Such collaboration is crucial for driving the digital
transformation that Africa so urgently needs, bridging gaps, and creating opportunities for growth and development
across the continent.
Akim Benamara, Founder and Chief-editor, TechAfrica News
Tech Innovation at the Forefront: Highlights from Gitex Africa 2024
Gitex Africa 2024 was a hub of insightful discussions and panels that addressed the most pressing topics in the
African tech ecosystem. The event facilitated a dynamic exchange of ideas and knowledge, fostering an environment
where innovation and collaboration could flourish.
What marked this year’s edition as an impressive one was the mixed panels that brought together
representatives from both the private and public sectors. These panels provided a unique
platform for stakeholders to collaborate, share insights, and discuss the future of technology in Africa. The
significance of these mixed panels cannot be overstated. By bringing together diverse perspectives, the panels
allowed for a comprehensive examination of the opportunities and challenges facing the African tech ecosystem.
Key discussions centered on critical areas such as digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, fintech, and the role
of government policies in fostering innovation. The interaction between private and public sector
representatives highlighted the need for strategies and collaborative efforts to drive technological advancement and
digital transformation across the continent. Commitments were made to invest in and improve digital infrastructure,
with several public-private partnerships announced to address this critical need.
Health tech innovations and advancements showcased at Gitex Africa 2024 highlighted
groundbreaking solutions aimed at transforming healthcare delivery across the continent. The event featured a
diverse range of technologies, including telemedicine platforms, AI-driven diagnostics, wearable health monitors,
and digital health records systems. Smart Africa also hosted the inaugural Africa Digital Health
Leadership Forum in collaboration with Gitex Africa and the Africa CDC. This event brought together
distinguished leaders from the Health and ICT sectors, including entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers. Panel
discussions and demonstrations emphasized the potential of health tech to address key healthcare challenges and
bridge gaps in healthcare delivery systems.
The event also attracted a wide array of sectors and enterprises, each showcasing their
role in driving Africa’s digital transformation. From finance and education to
agriculture and manufacturing, the event provided a comprehensive overview of how technology is
reshaping traditional industries. Finance sectors highlighted innovations in mobile banking, digital payments, and
blockchain technology, aimed at enhancing financial inclusion and efficiency.
Indeed, it is still the year of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the event
hosted players with various solutions and integrations showcased across different sectors. AI technologies were
spotlighted for building resilient infrastructure crucial for Africa’s development. Keynotes explored AI in
smart
cities, transport, energy, and disaster response. Discussions also covered ethical considerations and regulatory
needs for responsible AI use, stressing collaboration among governments, tech innovators, and civil society to
maximize AI’s benefits for Africa.
We were thrilled to witness the remarkable success of Gitex Africa 2024 and eagerly anticipate participating in
Gitex Africa 2025 scheduled for April 14th to 16th,
2025. The event showcased the key role of collaboration between private and public sectors in advancing
Africa’s digital landscape. The agreements and partnerships forged at Gitex Africa 2024 set a promising course
for
enhancing digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and financial inclusion across the continent.
As we look ahead. we anticipate even greater strides in innovation and collaboration. With continued commitment from
stakeholders, we envision continued collaboration and advancement at Gitex Africa 2025, as we collectively strive
toward a more connected and prosperous Africa.
More to Come: Major News and Announcements Unveiled
During the vibrant discussions, exhibitions, and panels at Gitex Africa 2024, significant partnerships and
announcements emerged that are set to redefine the technological landscape in Africa.
GITEX Nigeria: Unlocking Nigeria’s Tech Ecosystem
GITEX Nigeria was announced aiming to explore Nigeria’s expansive tech ecosystem. This initiative will enable
the
global tech community to tap into the opportunities presented by Nigeria, known for its talented youth in tech and
digital fields. The strategic partnership was solidified with the signing of an MoU between Kashifu Inuwa, Director
General of NITDA Nigeria, and Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of GITEX organizer Kaoun, in the presence of Dr. Tunji Alausa,
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Health & Social Reform.
Nigeria has birthed several tech unicorns. We thus want to bring a unique formula that is befitting and aligned with
Nigeria’s economic expectations for more opportunities for everyone and to deepen technological advancement in
the
country. That will connect Nigeria to GITEX Africa and GITEX Global to export to a new market of 44 countries, not
forgetting Asia
Trixie LohMirmand, CEO, GITEX organizer Kaoun
Comoros and the Central African Republic Join SATA for Digital Integration
The Central African Republic joined the Smart Africa Trust
Alliance (SATA) by signing the SATA declaration, becoming the 13th and 14th nation to join this
collaborative initiative. This step aims to foster interoperability of data exchange, identities, and services
across African countries, marking another significant stride towards a more connected and digitally integrated
Africa.
Morocco’s Digital Strategy 2030: Empowering Digital Economy
Morocco announced its Digital Strategy 2030 during the opening ceremony of Gitex Africa 2024. Developed through
intense collaboration between public and private sectors, this strategy focuses on digitizing public services and
boosting the digital economy. According to H.E. Aziz Akhannouch, Head of Government of the Kingdom of Morocco, the
goal is to develop Moroccan digital solutions, create added value, and generate employment opportunities.
This strategy is the outcome of intense synergy and collaboration between the various stakeholders in the public and
private sectors…The digital transition is not a technological luxury but an essential lever for consolidating
cooperation between African countries, insofar as it offers tangible solutions to the challenges facing the
continent, promotes sustainable development, and guarantees an environment conducive to strengthening African
integration
H.E. Aziz Akhannouch, Head of Government, The Kingdom of Morocco
Morrocco’s Strategic Partnership with Oracle to Accelerate Digital Transformation
H.E. Dr. Ghita Mezzour announced a new partnership with Oracle’s research and development branch valued at more than
1 billion Dirhams. This partnership aims to boost digital transformation efforts in the region, reinforcing
Morocco’s commitment to advancing its digital infrastructure and capabilities.
Through Our Lens: Video Interviews with Industry Experts & Exhibitors
TechAfrica News had the privilege of conducting over 14 insightful video interviews with industry experts and
exhibitors at Gitex Africa 2024. It was a great opportunity to delve into the latest trends and innovations shaping
the future of technology across Africa.
Some of the most notable interviews featured discussions on topics ranging from AI to satellite technology and
digital payments. Industry leaders and innovators shared their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in
their respective fields, offering key insights that are pivotal for Africa’s digital transformation journey.
A Multistakeholder Approach: Lacina Koné on Driving Digital Transformation and Innovation in Africa Through
Public-Private Collaboration
TechAfrica News engaged in a profound conversation with Lacina Koné, CEO of Smart
Africa. Koné shared his vision and insights on fostering a digital revolution across Africa, emphasizing the
critical role of collaboration between the public and private sectors. He underscored Smart Africa’s commitment to
creating agile regulatory environments that foster innovation and economic development, ensuring a conducive
landscape for technological advancements.
When we look at digital transformation, encompassing innovations like AI and the metaverse, the main challenge boils
down to Agile Regulation. Regulations need to be enablers of innovation rather than obstacles. Whether we talk about
connectivity, innovation, transformation, or acceleration, it’s all tied to having agile, supportive policies and
regulations. Where there’s political will, there’s a way to create a conducive environment for these technologies to
thrive
Lacina Koné, Chief Executive Officer, Smart Africa
Advancing Financial Inclusion: UN on the Role of Digital Payments in Africa’s Sustainable Development
In a conversation with Jean Pascal Mvondo, Regional Lead for Francophone Africa and the Middle East at the United Nations’ Better Than Cash Alliance. Mvondo discussed the
Alliance’s mission to leverage digital payments as a catalyst for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs),
emphasizing their impact on poverty reduction and gender equality. He also emphasized the significance of policy
harmonization under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), facilitating seamless cross-border
transactions across Africa’s diverse regulatory landscapes.
Since 2021, Africa has been working on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which is the largest
free trade area globally by the number of participating countries… Harmonization across different
countries is essential and will naturally happen through the implementation of binding protocols under the
AfCFTA. This will ensure that every trader can thrive in this market, facilitating seamless trade for a
market of 1.4 billion people.
Jean Pascal Mvondo, Regional Lead for Francophone Africa and the Middle East, United Nations’
Better Than Cash Alliance.
Microsoft’s
Strong Stand at Gitex Africa 2024: Showcasing Public Sector Solutions, City Management, and AI Innovations
with Partners
We interviewed Kunle Awosika, General Manager for Public Sector Africa at
Microsoft, during Gitex Africa 2024. Awosika highlighted
Microsoft’s robust presence, showcasing solutions like Public Finance and City Huddle for city management,
alongside AI innovations. He emphasized partnerships’ critical role in driving growth across sectors and
discussed Microsoft’s support for Africa’s digital transformation through initiatives like Azure OpenAI.
AI is indeed a crucial component of our strategy. Every CEO and government institution is keen on
leveraging AI to advance their goals. However, it’s not just about the hype. Effective AI implementation
requires proper data management and governance… Microsoft helps ensure that data is treated with the
utmost care, supporting the credibility and governance required for successful AI applications.
Kunle Awosika, General Manager for Public Sector Africa, Microsoft,
Transforming
MVNOs: PortaOne’s Vision for Driving Innovative Telecom Solutions
We caught up with Andriy Zhylenko, CEO of PortaOne
at their stand during the event. Zhylenko discussed PortaOne’s role in transforming the telecom industry by
enabling MVNOs to evolve into business productivity providers. PortaOne’s solutions focus on integrating Cloud
PBX and CRM systems, leveraging AI for enhanced communication, and supporting SMEs through innovative platforms
and accelerator programs.
We observe this shift not only with MVNOs but across the entire telecom industry. Telecom operators need
to embrace this change or risk becoming obsolete if they continue only selling SIM cards or
connectivity… At PortaOne, we provide systems that manage and monetize any type of service and build
ecosystems around these services… Essentially, we’re enabling a shift from selling commodities to
creating new revenue streams.
Andriy Zhylenko, Chief Executive Officer, PortaOne
Yahsat’s
Cutting-Edge Satellite Solutions: Thuraya 4-NGS, Skyphone, and Geospatial Integration Spotlighted at Gitex
Africa 2024
Our Chief-editor, Akim Benamara spoke with Sulaiman Al Ali, CCO of Yahsat
and CEO of Thuraya who showcased capabilities from
subsidiaries Thuraya
and YahClick. Their stand featured live demos including e-learning, e-clinic, and a connected vehicle,
demonstrating the Thuraya system’s versatility. Al Ali discussed their strategic partnerships and plans for
merging with Bayanat under Space 42, aiming to enhance geospatial intelligence offerings globally.
Africa has been a focus for Yahsat from the start. We aim to bridge the digital divide and connect the
unconnected. YahClick, for example, has proven to be one of the top players in Africa. We understand the
market’s needs and have established strong service partnerships across the continent.
Sulaiman Al Ali, CCO of Yahsat and CEO of Thuraya
Protei’s Comprehensive and Advanced Telecom Solutions for African Operators
We were pleased to speak with Mohammed Jalal, Managing Director for MENA, and Vladimir Freinkman, VP of Marketing
and Business Development at Protei, about their latest innovations and market
strategies.
Source: Techafricanews