Today marks the much-anticipated inauguration of the Connected Africa Summit 2024, heralding the convergence of intellects and voices from across Africa and the world.
The Connected Africa Summit 2024 kicked off today at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, marking a significant milestone in Africa’s digital journey.
Leaders from across sectors convened to address pivotal issues shaping the continent’s digital landscape, with a shared commitment to fostering digital transformation and connectivity.
Esteemed heads of state, including President William Ruto are gracing the event, elevating its significance to new heights.
In a momentous address, Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, Kenya, Eliud Owalo, unveiled a roadmap towards enhanced digital connectivity and inclusivity.
The CS emphasized the transformative potential of Big Data and Machine Learning, illustrating how these technologies can revolutionize Africa’s digital landscape.
Central to CS Owalo’s vision is the cultivation of digital entrepreneurship opportunities. He underscored the importance of breaking down barriers and harmonizing policies across Africa to foster an environment conducive to innovation and growth.
“I am thrilled to witness the commencement of the Connected Africa Summit 2024,” remarked CS Owalo. “This week presents a unique opportunity for Africa to tackle pressing technology issues and craft enduring solutions that will shape our continent’s connected future. It is my hope that by the end of this summit, we will come up with recommendations of what we need to position Africa as a leader in the digital economy.”
Officially inaugurating the summit, President Ruto echoed Owalo’s sentiments, articulating a bold vision for Africa’s economic prosperity.
Under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area, President Ruto outlined ambitious plans to leverage pan-African integration to propel the continent’s collective GDP from $1.7 trillion to $2.5 trillion by 2030.
“Our vision for the future is bold, clearly urgent, and visible. Under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework, we aim to harness pan-African integration to expand our collective GDP from $ 1.7T to $ 2.5T by 2030,” President Ruto said.
The President also noted that, “At the heart of digital transformation are our young talents whom we must support if we are to realize a robust digital economy.”
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ICT Authority of Kenya, Stanley Kamanguya emphasized the summit’s importance in propelling Africa towards becoming a digital powerhouse.
“A challenge was set to grow a digital powerhouse, and the #ConnectedAfricaSummit2024 is a sign of that commitment to growth,” he remarked.
Mr Kamanguya stressed the potential to build a unique digital landscape that would give Africa a competitive edge, fostering connectivity and advancing digital transformation.
On his part, PS of ICT and Digital Economy, Eng John Tanui, underscored the summit’s role in addressing critical issues affecting the continent and the world.
“This platform gives us a huge opportunity to address some of the most important issues affecting our continent and the globe,” Eng Tanui stated.
He highlighted the focus on matters of connectivity and the digitalization of services, emphasizing the role of governments in driving these initiatives forward.
European Union (EU) Ambassador to Kenya, Henriette Geiger, highlighted the EU’s commitment to digital transformation in Africa.
“The EU has created the global gateway investment worth Sh21 trillion, where 10% of this funds is dedicated to digital transformation in Africa,” Ms Geiger announced.
She emphasized the importance of cooperation at all levels to ensure the success of digital ecosystems, envisioning the development of a single digital market for Africa where data can flow freely across borders.
The Connected Africa Summit 2024 sets the stage for collaborative efforts towards bridging the digital divide and unleashing Africa’s potential in the digital era.
The Leaders expressed optimism about the possibilities that lie ahead and reaffirmed their dedication to driving inclusive digital growth across the continent.
The summit promises to be a pivotal moment in Africa’s digital evolution, as leaders and innovators convene to chart a course towards a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous future.