.. .Advance ICT solutions for sustainable dev’t
By Bernard Yaw ASHIADEY, Mombasa-Kenya
The 2024 edition of the annual TICON Africa Conference has opened with a clarion call to advancing Information Communication Technology (ICT) solutions for the continent’s sustainable development.
“TICON Africa Conference is an annual ICT event that brings together industry thought leaders from across the continent and beyond. It offers an unparalleled opportunity for ICT decision-makers and professionals to come together to debate, learn, and forecast the leading trends and development prospects for ICT across Africa,” says David Gowu, President of Technology Information Confederation (TICON) Africa.
Mr. Gowu, who was delivering his welcome address at the 2024 edition at Sarova White Sands Hotel in Mombasa, Kenya to a gathering of ICT professionals in industry, policymaking and other economic sectors noted that TICON Africa serves as a unifying platform for ICT professionals, promoting excellence through education, networking, and collaboration.
“By bringing together a community of like-minded professionals, we aim to drive innovation and create a brighter future for all Africans.” The conference, hosted in partnership with the ICT Association of Kenya (ICTAK) is under the theme ‘Advancing ICT Solutions for Sustainable Development in Africa’.
The topics being covered this year include strengthening digital infrastructure and access, harnessing the power of AI and big data for African development, and addressing cybersecurity and data privacy challenges.
“We will also explore AI in healthcare, examining whether it presents an opportunity or a threat from a medical practitioners’ perspective. Additionally, we will discuss the impact of big data analytics in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and data protection, regulatory requirements,” he added.
Alain Gbeasor, a digital entrepreneur and Executive Director of Mobex Africa, speaking on the topic ‘Harnessing the Power of ICT to Drive Sustainable Growth Across Africa under the AfCFTA’, noted that the AfCFTA presents a unique opportunity for Africa to leverage ICT as a catalyst for progress. “From enhancing cross-border trade to improving access to essential services, the strategic integration of ICT solutions can be a game-changer for the continent.”
One such success story comes from Kenya, where the rise of mobile money platforms like M-Pesa has revolutionized financial inclusion. “M-Pesa has enabled millions of Kenyans, particularly those in rural areas, to access banking and financial services without traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. This has not only empowered individuals but also fueled economic growth and development,” he added.
Professor Fred McBagonluri, President of Academic City College, speaking on the topic, ‘Empowering the Future: Equipping the Next Generation with Entrepreneurship and Emerging Technology Skills’, touched on the importance of entrepreneurship education for young learners, integrating emerging technology in education, and challenges and opportunities in teaching entrepreneurship to the next generation.
He also discussed developing a curriculum for entrepreneurship and emerging technology skills, the role of mentors in guiding young entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts and measuring the impact of entrepreneurship and technology education on students.
On Day 1, there were presentations, panel discussions and very interactive sessions and answers segments throughout the day. The first panel discussion was on the theme ‘Unlocking Africa’s Digital Future: Integrating Strategies to Expand and Strengthen Digital Infrastructure and Access.
Moderated by Brian Longwe – Malawi, it has Mulombo Hameja – Director Digital Government Servies – Smart Zambia; James Byaruhanga – MD Roke Cloud – Uganda; and Derrick Diaba – Manager: Network Infrastructure, Bayobab, WECA Region – Ghana as the panelists. There were presentations on the subject before the panel.
The second panel discussion was on the topic ‘Empowering Women in ICT: Closing the Digital Divide, Building Future Skills, and Driving Financial Inclusion’. It was moderated by Malebogo Khanda-Wiktor – Secretary General, Botswana Information Technology Society, with Viola Dondo – Executive Director, Computer Society of Zimbabwe; Elizabeth Chabaluka Masache – Manager – Treasurer General ICT Accociation of Malawi; and Grace Labong Achire, Manager, International Business Development, East and Central Africa (ECA), Arxia, Uganda as panelists.
To round up the day, Brian Longwe, Co-founder and CEO of Converged Technology Networks, Malawi made a presentation on the topic ‘Connecting the Unconnected. Combining innovation, experience and technology to deliver locally relevant internet services’.
Overview of TICON Africa
TICON Africa is a leading pan-African ICT professional body dedicated to advancing knowledge, education, and collaboration for technology professionals across the African continent. Its mission is to spearhead the ongoing development of the highest possible standards of ICT knowledge and practice, ensuring that Africa remains at the forefront of technological innovation.
Since its inaugural conference in Entebbe, TICON Africa has grown to include 12 member countries. It has welcomed new members including the Computer Society of Zimbabwe (CSZ), ICT Chamber of Rwanda, ICT Association of Ethiopia, Lesotho ICT Association, and the host, the ICT Association of Kenya (ICTAK).
Summary of the inaugural TICON Africa Conference 2023
The inaugural TICON Africa Conference held in Entebbe, Uganda, in 2023 under the theme: ‘Unifying ICT Talent to Power the African Continent to 2030 and Beyond’ was a resounding success.
It brought together the brightest minds in ICT to explore the best means of action to power Africa to a brighter future beyond 2030.
The conference provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions, knowledge sharing, and networking, setting the stage for future collaborations and advancements in the ICT sector.
Benefits of participating in the Conference
For IT professionals from various parts of Africa, participating in this conference offers numerous benefits. It will significantly boost your brand exposure across the continent, allowing you to connect with senior decision-makers and generate valuable leads.
You will have the chance to network with fellow professionals from related industries, showcase your innovative products or services, and stay ahead of the competition by demonstrating your leadership and expertise in the field.
