As Africa continues to embrace digital transformation, the roles of government, academia, and industry have become increasingly intertwined. Each sector plays a critical role in driving commercialization and fostering innovation across the continent. However, aligning their efforts can be complex, requiring collaboration, policy frameworks, and a shared vision. This panel brings together thought leaders from these three sectors to explore how they can work together to accelerate Africa’s digital growth. Attendees will gain insights into the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation, the importance of cross-sector partnerships, and the strategies needed to create a thriving digital economy in Africa.

Somachi Chris-Asoluka

The Tony Elumelu Foundation

CEO

Ore Ogunbiyi

The Economist

Africa Correspondent

Investing in Africa’s tech future is more crucial than ever as the continent emerges as a global innovation hub. But what are the key trends and economic projections shaping this landscape? In this panel, experts from leading investment firms and tech companies will explore the opportunities and challenges of investing in Africa's burgeoning tech sector and discuss strategies for fostering sustainable growth and innovation.

Oyin Solebo

Techstars Lagos

Managing Director

Bernard Ghartey

Norrsken22

Investment Manager

Uwem Uwemakpan

Launch Africa VC

Head of Investment

As we navigate the post-2022 growth phase, the importance of operational excellence in customer retention has become more apparent than ever.

This discussion will focus on how shifting consumer expectations and economic pressures, like inflation and interest rates, are driving startups to refine their retention strategies. We'll explore the rise of open payments—a concept that was almost nonexistent a few years ago but has now become crucial for startups aiming to retain customers in a competitive market. Join us to understand why open payments are not just a fleeting trend but a key strategy for enhancing customer loyalty and long-term success. Discover how embracing this innovation can help your startup stay ahead, improve performance, and deepen customer satisfaction.

Joshua Chibueze

Piggyvest

Co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer

Blessing Abeng

Branding and Communications Expert

Mohini Ufeli-Ezekwesili

Paystack

Marketing Manager

You might be surprised to learn that Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Zambia are emerging as key players in Africa's economic and startup ecosystems. This discussion will bring together experts to explore the unique opportunities and challenges within these dynamic markets. We'll delve into the most critical strategies, infrastructure developments, and innovations driving economic and startup growth across these countries, and why now is the time to invest in their potential.

Failure is often seen as a setback, but for startups, it can be a powerful teacher. This session will delve into how startups can learn from their failures and turn those lessons into strategies for building world-class enterprises.

How can startups effectively analyze and learn from their failures?

What are common pitfalls that startups face, and how can they be avoided?

How can embracing a culture of resilience and adaptability lead to long-term success?

What are the key elements of a successful recovery plan after a failure?

Babajide Duroshola

M-KOPA

General Manager

Omoruyi Edoigiawerie

E & C Legal

Lead Partner/Chief Servant

The African startup ecosystem is ripe with opportunities, attracting attention from investors worldwide. This panel will explore the various avenues for increasing investment into African startups, focusing on mergers and acquisitions (M&As), joint ventures, and local investments.

What are the current trends in M&As involving African startups, and how can startups position themselves to attract such opportunities?

How can joint ventures serve as a strategic tool for startups to scale and access new markets?

What role do local investors play in the growth of African startups, and how can they be encouraged to increase their participation?

Satoshi Shinada

Verod Kepple Africa Ventures

Partner

Ike Eze

Beta Ventures

Managing Partner