The second edition of the Global Tech Africa (GTA) Conference, held from July 24th to 26th at the Landmark Event Center in Lagos, showcased Nigeria as a burgeoning hub of tech innovation and collaboration. With over 6,000 participants, 85+ sessions, 100+ speakers, and numerous groundbreaking exhibitors, the event emphasised the transformative power of global collaborations to drive local technological advancements.
The Epicentre Stage brought together government representatives, corporations, and VVIP delegations, focusing on opportunities and addressing challenges within Africa’s tech landscape. This platform provided an essential space for stakeholders to discuss policies and strategies to foster a thriving tech ecosystem in Nigeria.
Read also: Nigeria’s NITDA initiates a programme to bridge digital divide
Empowering Tech Startups in Nigeria
The Startup Stage featured thought leaders and tech founders engaging in panels and workshops on AI, fintech, cybersecurity, and more. This stage underscored the significance of supporting local startups through knowledge sharing and mentorship, which is crucial for scaling innovative solutions.
In partnership with GFA Technology, Kryptr, and Jobberman, the Outsource Factory Stage empowered Africa’s young talent through training workshops and career connections in the outsourcing sector. This initiative aimed to equip the youth with the skills necessary to thrive in the digital economy, thereby addressing the talent gap in the tech industry.
This year, the Deal Room, a new addition, facilitated connections between innovative startups and potential investors. Supported by One Africa, this initiative highlighted the importance of investment in nurturing tech enterprises in Africa. Over 10 investors engaged with 150 selected investees across 16 industries, including technology, energy, agriculture, gaming, and fashion.
Read also: Advancly and Bolt Nigeria team up to offer drivers credit access
Keynotes, Panels, and Future Commitments at GTA
Keynote speakers such as Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi (Director General, NITDA) emphasised the government’s commitment to leveraging technological innovation for economic diversification. Ralph Simon (Founder, Mobilium) discussed AI’s potential to drive local transformations in Africa, while Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe (Commissioner, Ministry of Wealth Creation & Employment, Lagos State) introduced the Empower Lagos Project, aimed at supporting youth and small-scale entrepreneurs.
Panels covered various topics, including women empowerment, AI, fintech, agriculture, edtech, health tech, and cybersecurity. Masterclasses offered in-depth training on machine learning, business transformation, mobile app development, data analytics, and operations management, led by experts from top organisations.
Tech companies and startups showcased their innovative products, with notable exhibitors like Emerging Innovators, Data Factory, and Kryptr. The National Creativity Competition spotlighted university students’ innovative ideas, further demonstrating the potential of Nigeria’s young tech talents.
The GTA 2024 Conference, facilitated by partners such as Future Map Foundation, NITDA, the U.S. Consulate General Lagos, Ascend Studios Foundation, and Venture Garden Group, highlighted the immense potential of Africa’s digital economy. The event reinforced the collective commitment to driving growth and development through strategic collaborations and innovative solutions.
