TechPression

Category: Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events

  • Africacomicade to host Gamathon 2024 in Lagos, offering funding opportunities

    Africacomicade to host Gamathon 2024 in Lagos, offering funding opportunities

    Africacomicade is set to reconvene leading experts in the video games, immersive, and interactive media industries for the Gamathon 2024 convention, themed “THRIVE.” Taking place from September 30 to October 5, 2024, in Lagos, Nigeria, the event will attract investors, regulators, industry players, ecosystem leaders, creative teens and youths, game studio founders, government stakeholders, NGOs, and more for six days of networking, collaboration, and funding opportunities.

    Since its inception in 2020, Gamathon has successfully united global stakeholders and forged partnerships with industry giants like Xbox, Steam, Unity, Rovio, and Carry1st. These collaborations have fostered dynamic discussions and knowledge sharing, significantly advancing the African video game industry.

    Read also: GTA 2024 conference spurs tech innovation and collaboration in Nigeria

    In 2023, over $30,000 was awarded in prototype grants and prizes, introducing more than 2,000 youths to the games industry and publishing 20+ game projects from the community. The fourth edition of Gamathon promises even greater excitement and opportunity.

    6 Days Innovation and Collaboration at Gamathon 2024

    Gamathon 2024 will feature a game jam where African game development talents will create interactive video games. The Ark Pitch platform will allow game studio founders and indie developers to present their projects for prototype grants. An industry showcase will exhibit various creative outputs, while attendees can enjoy a tour of Lagos, panel sessions, and a gaming expo. These activities will focus on digital art, animation, video game development, and extended reality verticals.

    The 2023 edition featured a lineup of prestigious speakers, including Temi Afolabi from Microsoft Gaming, Amélie Fabre from Gara Store, and Ahmed Maawy, Lead Godot Advocate in Africa. This year’s edition is set to surpass expectations, offering even more valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration.

    Who Should Attend?

    Investors, regulators, industry players, ecosystem leaders, creative youths, government stakeholders, game studio founders, NGOs, cultural organisations, and tech professionals are all invited to attend. Tickets for the convention can be purchased at https://paystack.com/pay/gamathon.

    Read also: Nigerian Government encourages Citizens to apply as ECOWAS opens applications for cybersecurity hackathon

    About Gamathon

    Gamathon is Africa’s premier gathering of stakeholders in the interactive and immersive media industry, encompassing games, digital art, and extended reality. The convention offers workshops, industry talks, panel sessions, pitch competitions, exhibitions, and a game jam, attracting over 2,000 creatives annually.

    About Africacomicade

    Africacomicade serves as a launchpad for stakeholders in Africa’s video games, immersive, and interactive media industries, connecting them with opportunities for co-production, learning, collaboration, and funding.

    For press inquiries, interviews, or requesting press passes for the Gamathon event, please get in touch with Asunogie Nimat (+234 813 350 8676).

  • Nigeria Computer Society to hold conference on tech solutions

    Nigeria Computer Society to hold conference on tech solutions

    The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) will hold an international conference from 12 to 15 August 2024 at the Dr. Obi Wali International Conference Centre, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

    How can technology enhance economic intelligence in a SMART Economy?

    The 2024 Conference theme, “Technological Solutions for SMART Economy,” aims to initiate a global conversation about integrating technology to support a smart economy.

    It also highlights technological advancements in human-centred methods, paving the path towards achieving sustainable development goals.

    Read also: Lagos gears up for 5th TechUnwind with N150k prizes up for grabs

    The conference, codenamed “SmartEco 2024”, will function as an international forum for professionals, scholars, policymakers, stakeholders, and governments at all levels to convene, share concepts, submit technical papers, and present ground-breaking solutions that have the potential to usher in an innovative economy.

    Their goal is to increase competitiveness and productivity through these breakthroughs and new sustainable business endeavours, ultimately improving everyone’s quality of life.

    Nigeria Computer Society’s statement

    “The quick development of technology in our digital age has brought about a seismic shift in how we work, live, and engage with the world. Because of its widespread impact, technology is present in almost every area of our lives and is essential to developing the so-called “smart economy.”

    This preamble aims to highlight the importance of technical solutions in this ever-changing environment and their critical role in promoting efficiency, sustainability, and advancement in our globalised society.

    “To provide technological solutions for the various global economic challenges, collaboration among computer scientists, ICT professionals, engineers, innovators, accountants, statisticians, economists, content creators, artists, and other stakeholders is imperative.

    The current reality is characterised by social unrest, terrorism, and even outright conflicts among nations, which have resulted in severe economic downturns, inflation, and increased poverty.

    Modern technology like robotics, mobile, artificial intelligence, and scientific technologies are needed for these creative solutions because they are crucial elements of a SMART economy.”, the society stated on its website.

    Speakers for the conference

    Keynote speakers, plenary sessions, panels, industry exhibitions, paper and poster presentations, research collaborations, and discussion groups led by international authorities on innovative economies are all planned for this conference.

    Scholars, professionals, and students from throughout the globe are cordially invited to submit their works for possible presentation at the gathering, where they will explore the most recent developments and inventive methods for intelligent economies.

    Read also: LDMT 2024 to empower marketing experts with future-ready strategies

    This event will make a comprehensive approach to achieving Smart Economies possible for practitioners, policymakers, administrators, infrastructure operators, industry representatives, and researchers. This conference will catalyse additional relevant studies and technological advancements in this crucial area.

    Special guests and speakers for the conference include the executive governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara (Chief Host); Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani (chairman); President of Nigeria Computer Society, Dr Muhammad Sirajo Aliyu (host);

    Others include former president of International Federation for Information Processing, Prof. Mike Hinchey (keynote speaker); Senior Research Scientist at the Responsible Tech Group, IBM Research – Brazil, Dr. Heloisa Candello (Distinguished speaker); University of Chichester, Bognor Regis, Dr. Kelvin Anoh (lead paper presenter); Professor of Computer Science and a Fulbright Scholar, Prof. Benjamin Segun Aribisala (guest speaker); CEO of Sheedx Africa, Enoabasi Emah (guest speaker) among others.

  • Lagos gears up for 5th TechUnwind with N150k prizes up for grabs

    Lagos gears up for 5th TechUnwind with N150k prizes up for grabs

    Lagos is set to come alive on Saturday, July 27th, 2024, as TechUnwind, powered by YellowLyfe, returns for its fifth year. This highly anticipated event will take place at the WaveBeach House in Lekki, offering tech enthusiasts, investors, founders, and entrepreneurs an unparalleled blend of learning, networking, and entertainment.

    Read also: Mastercard Foundation EdTech Conference emphasises ICT integration in African learning

    TechUnwind Lagos: Networking Opportunity for Participants

    TechUnwind Lagos is not just another tech event but a confluence of minds and opportunities. Attendees will have the chance to connect with industry professionals in a relaxed yet stimulating environment. 

    Whether you are seeking a new job or a collaboration opportunity, the networking sessions at TechUnwind provide the perfect platform to propel your career forward. The event’s structure ensures that every participant can engage in meaningful conversations and form lasting connections.

    Industry Leaders’ INsights and Job Opportunities

    One of the highlights of TechUnwind is the fireside chat sessions. These sessions feature candid and authentic conversations with key leaders in the tech industry. Participants will gain insider tips and strategies to level up their careers and position themselves for success. The fireside chats are designed to inspire and equip attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape.

    For those looking for new job opportunities or considering a career switch, TechUnwind serves as a strategic platform. The event’s networking sessions are tailored to allow participants to pitch themselves to potential recruiters and attract new opportunities. This event feature underscores its commitment to supporting the career growth of tech professionals.

    TechUnwind: A Unique Blend of Tech and Leisure

    True to its name, TechUnwind promises a fun experience beyond traditional tech events. Attendees can escape the work routine and immerse themselves in various games and activities designed to entertain and relax. From engaging game experiences to swimming, the event ensures participants enjoy a well-rounded experience.

    Read also: LDMT 2024 to empower marketing experts with future-ready strategies

    No TechUnwind event is complete without an exhilarating after-party. This year’s edition promises to deliver an unforgettable after-party experience. Attendees can look forward to free drinks, food vouchers, and access to the beach, creating the perfect setting to unwind and celebrate.

    This year’s TechUnwind event will include performances by top artists, and raffle draws worth 150,000 Naira, and prizes including souvenirs, T-shirts, pop sockets, and tote bags. Participants also get access to a global tech community.

    The event will occur on Saturday, July 27th, 2024, at 4 PM, at the WaveBeach House in Lekki, Lagos. Tickets are priced at ₦5,000 per head.

    Techpression is a proud media partner of TechUnwind, brought to you by YellowLyfe and sponsored by MyAza and Trace. The event promises an immersive networking experience with collaboration, insightful conversations, and fun.

    Tickets can be purchased here; use our referral code, TECHPRESSION, to get a 10% discount. For sponsorships and partnerships, contact brands@yellowlyfe.com or call +234 816 463 0960.

    Follow @techunwindng on social media for more updates and information. Get ready for an event that promises to blend the best of tech, networking, and entertainment into one spectacular experience.

  • Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) to hold Techpreneur Summit

    Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) to hold Techpreneur Summit

    The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) is set to hold its annual flagship tech event, DBN Techpreneur Summit 2024, at the Continental Hotel, Lagos. 

    The tech event, scheduled to be held on Wednesday, 10th July, starting at 8.0am, aims to highlight and promote investor-ready technological advances within Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape, giving qualified techpreneurs access to a pipeline of investors and funding. The theme for this year’s summit is ‘Catalyzing Tech Innovation: Empowering Entrepreneurs for Regenerative Growth.’

    In furtherance of the DBN’s strategic role of stimulating the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria, the DBN has held a pre-selection session to shortlist tech innovators who will be participating in the final pitch during the summit. 

    Read also: Access Bank and British Council join forces for BROCLA 2024

    DBN MD/CEO’s remark

    Dr Tony Okpanachi, the Managing Director and CEO of the Development Bank of Nigeria discussed the importance of the pre-selection process and stated that it was a crucial step in identifying who was the best among equals. He also added that it was a time- and money-saving method for both the innovators and the evaluators. According to him, pre-selection gives innovators a chance to raise their chances of winning the pitch competition.

    Simplifying the selection process, in his opinion, helps innovators who make the shortlist feel less stressed and anxious and allows them to concentrate on how to succeed in their pitch and presentation.

    He went on to say that by helping MSMEs and tech innovators expand and build their businesses, as well as the tech sector in Nigeria, the DBN plays a critical role in helping MSMEs reach their full potential.

    According to Okpanachi, DBN helps to propel inclusive economic growth and raises the standard of living for Nigerians by enabling MSMEs to make a major contribution to the real GDP growth of the nation.

    According to Mrs Comfort Aruosa-Osemwegie, Managing Director of Addium Capital, the screening session’s goal is to prepare the tech founders for possible investors who will also be present at this year’s Techpreneur Summit. She said an exclusive Deal Room will be held during the summit as a venue for techpreneurs to interact with potential investors directly, thanks to a partnership between DBN and Addium, a private equity and venture capital firm.

    Read also: ITIDA, Telecom Egypt, and Nokia’s Network Automation initiatives

    The pre-selection process 

    The pitch competition received entries from more than 100 tech startups. Leaders in the business served as the panel of examiners at the pre-selection event in June, where they evaluated each proposal according to predetermined standards.

    Twenty digital entrepreneurs from various industries, including fintech, health tech, and transportation, made it to the final pitch round after going through this procedure.

  • 11th Angel Fair Africa to take place in Kenya

    11th Angel Fair Africa to take place in Kenya

    The eleventh Angel Fair Africa event will convene a select group of African entrepreneurs and carefully chosen investors to conduct business on November 7-8, 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya. 

    Angel Fair Africa took place for the first time in September 2013 and moved to Johannesburg, Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Abidjan, Maputo, Dar es Salaam, Mauritius, and Cape Town last year.

    Last year’s event took place in East London, South Africa, from November 29th to December 1st, 2023, for its 10th anniversary. 

    Read also: Highlights from the Science of Trade (SOT) conference organised by Ascends Studios Foundation

    The 2016 edition, which took place in Nairobi, is scheduled to return there in November and will bring together investors, accelerators, and up-and-coming companies from all over the African continent.

    The keynote speaker for the occasion will be Dr James Mworia, group MD and CEO of Centum Investments Company, the organisation that supports the Two Rivers International Financial and Innovation Centre (TRIFIC).

    What Angel Fair Africa (AFA) is about

    Angel Fair Africa is an event organised by Chanzo Capital that presents carefully chosen African entrepreneurs to a room full of carefully chosen investors to close deals.

    Since its inception in 2013, AFA has been a component of the strategies used in Africa to draw Angel investors to the continent’s startup scene. It has a significant symbolic and factual influence on the entrepreneurial ecosystem’s explosive expansion, both in terms of the fundraising boom and the startling increase in the number of tech and innovation businesses over the past ten years.

    Telling the tale of AFA and the expansion of Angel investment would include enumerating the difficulties and triumphs faced by Africa’s startups—including the emergence of its unicorns. 

    The event, which commenced in 2013, has invested $100 million in Kenya, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Tanzania, Mozambique, Senegal, and other countries. 

    Read also: Global Tech Africa (GTA) conference to be held in Lagos

    The brain behind Angel Fair Africa 

    Chanzo Capital is a venture and growth capital firm that invests capital, capacity, and community in high-tech startups and scaleups in Kenya, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa. These nations comprise what the organisation described as the “KINGS” of Africa’s digital economy. 

    The company aims to finance the expansion and advancement of the high-tech industry by offering its portfolio of firms and the African ecosystem as a whole: Capital, Capacity, and Community.

    They have been building the African community through their yearly Angel Fair Africa, which gathers chosen entrepreneurs to pitch to invited investors. They have realised multimillion US dollars in investment throughout the years of organising the event. 

  • First edition of PitchFestNG 2024 to hold in Lagos

    First edition of PitchFestNG 2024 to hold in Lagos

    PitchFestNG is set to host the first Pitch Festival for tech enthusiasts in Africa. As the premier tech event in Africa, the Lagos Tech Fest 2024 brings together opportunity, inventiveness, and creativity.  August 25, 2024, at The Five Palm Oniru, Lagos, Nigeria Icon.

    Why you should attend PitchFestNG 2024

    Among the 1,500 expected attendees are tech enthusiasts, investors, entrepreneurs, and industry insiders, so you can expect to meet a wide range of exciting people.

    At the festival, you can meet people who share your interests, talk shop, and make connections that will help your business grow. You will discover inspiring stories and insightful advice whether you are a tech professional, a veteran executive, or a startup founder.

    Read also: LinkedIn Local Lagos 4.0 set to hold hangout this June

    As fifteen of Africa’s most exciting startups present innovative solutions, you see firsthand the inventiveness and imagination at work. Witness the cutting edge of African technology, learn about new trends, and find out about exciting opportunities for collaboration at this exclusive event. There will be a lot of great startups competing for the title of PitchFestNG winner.

    Check out the newest offerings from various exhibitors displaying state-of-the-art technology and solutions. Talk to vendors to learn what they offer, how you can improve your company, and how to keep up with the ever-changing technology scene. This is a great chance to get up close and personal with the newest inventions.

    Investors will be attending Pitch Festival Africa. Contact firms that have been hand-picked for their proven ability to pay off big. Invest in Africa’s tech startups of the future by meeting their founders, hearing their pitches, and starting conversations that could lead to lucrative investments. Hundreds of promising new businesses will be showcasing their wares at the festival.

    Startups and exhibitors will have an unparalleled opportunity to be featured in the event’s extensive media coverage. The media will be privy to behind-the-scenes information, exclusive interviews, and press briefings. Meet essential figures in the tech industry, cover breaking tech news from Africa, and shine a light on the inspiring tales of innovation and entrepreneurship propelling the continent forward.

    What PitchFestNG 2024 is offering

    Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from pioneers in the tech industry and influential thinkers about the future of tech.

    Workshops that encourage active participation: learn all about cutting-edge tech and how to put that knowledge to use in your job or company.

    Read also: Zambian fintech Lupiya wins GITEX Africa supernova challenge

    Pitch Competition: Do You Have a Revolutionary Idea? If you want to win some cash, fame, and prizes, you should enter our pitch competition. Advance your business to the next level by presenting your idea, product, or startup to an investor and judging panel.

    Startup Showcases: Learn about innovative companies and investment opportunities transforming Nigeria’s technology landscape.

    Meet investors, potential partners, and like-minded individuals from all over the world through these networking opportunities.

    It is a job fair to network with prominent tech companies and startups actively recruiting top talent. Attend the Lagos Tech Fest Job Fair to discover your next opportunity, regardless of your experience level. 

  • Learning Meets Tech: Mastercard Foundation Hosts Innovative EdTech Conference

    Learning Meets Tech: Mastercard Foundation Hosts Innovative EdTech Conference

    The first-ever EdTech Conference will occur from July 8–10, 2024, at the Mastercard Foundation’s Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning. It will be an annual conference gathering. It is being held this year at the Hilton Transcorp in Abuja, Nigeria, in collaboration with the Nigerian federal government.

    The 2024 Mastercard Foundation EdTech Conference’s subject, “Education Technology for Resilient and Inclusive Learning in Africa”, is in keeping with the African Union’s Year of Education.

    Read also: Insights from the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship

    The discussion will centre on the current state of the EdTech ecosystem, emerging trends, the role of EdTech in solving Africa’s educational challenges and policies that are needed to foster an enabling environment for technology-enabled innovation in education.

    Transforming Africa’s Education Ecosystem

    Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation stated that technology is a potent enabler of opportunity and advancement. Young entrepreneurs and innovators are reviving the education industry with fresh ideas and energy all over Africa. A few breakthroughs can potentially change ecosystems and countless people’s futures.

    This first conference aims to accelerate the development of digitally connected educational platforms and systems that provide accessible learning opportunities for everyone. Participants include young people, EdTech entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, donors, data scientists, and many others.

    It is anticipated that members of the EdTech ecosystem operating at the intersection of ICT and education from all over the continent will exchange knowledge on workable strategies to expand access to high-quality education for all in Africa.

    The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Conference aims to transform Africa’s education ecosystem by investing in home-grown innovative solutions to bridge access and learning gaps, highlighting the role of technology in catalysing transformation.

    Read also: Mastercard-AfDB Digital Economy Alliance to boost African digital access

    About the Mastercard Foundation

    One of the most significant foundations worldwide is the Mastercard Foundation, a registered charity in Canada. It collaborates with forward-thinking organisations to promote financial inclusion and education so that young people in Canada’s Indigenous communities and Africa can find respectable and meaningful employment.

    Established in 2006 by Mastercard’s kind generosity upon the company’s going public, the Foundation operates independently of the business and has offices in Toronto, Kigali, Accra, Nairobi, Kampala, Lagos, Dakar, and Addis Ababa.

    The Foundation’s Board of Directors and leadership make decisions on its policies, operations, and programmes.

    The Mastercard Foundation Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning promotes technology-driven education, focusing on underserved communities. It collaborates with various stakeholders to integrate technology into education, fostering innovative EdTech innovations and enhancing learning.

  • LinkedIn Local Lagos 4.0 set to hold hangout this June

    LinkedIn Local Lagos 4.0 set to hold hangout this June

    The fourth edition of the LinkedIn Local Lagos hangout will be held on June 15, 2024. According to the organisers, it is set to be bigger and better. 

    LinkedIn Local events are spontaneous gatherings arranged by LinkedIn users worldwide. They offer a chance to network, foster community, discuss business trends, and exchange LinkedIn best practices.

    Speakers at LinkedIn Local Lagos 4.0

    At LinkedIn Local-Lagos 4.0, George Onafowokan, Managing Director of COLEMAN WIRES AND CABLES, will give a speech. He is a renowned motivational speaker, business analyst, and experienced entrepreneur.

    Read also: African Tech Summit (ATS) 2024 holds in June

    Goodness “Ada” Armstrong is another speaker at the function. She is an ecosystem builder, talent investor, and advisor on HR and culture for startups. Goodness is the creator of CAREERSPACE Africa. She is intensely interested in developing talent, matching talented people with opportunities, and assisting businesses in creating exceptional workplace environments. Goodness is scheduled to talk at the career panel. 

    The event’s moderators are Yemi Faseun, a business executive with expertise in multiple sectors and functions and Gbenga Adigun, co-founder and CEO of Scrella. 

    Since 2017, LinkedIn Local Lagos has been the largest gathering for Lagos-based LinkedIn users to network. Business executives and seasoned professionals network, learn and participate in conversations. 

    Before the COVID-19 pandemic 2019, the event’s second edition brought together over 500 LinkedIn users at Civic Centre, Victoria Island, including entrepreneurs, top executives, and business leaders. 

    How to be involved

    For as little as ₦300,000, LinkedIn Local is looking for exhibitors who are prepared to showcase their business to over a thousand professionals at the largest LinkedIn Local event in Lagos. For additional information on the booth and related arrangements, please call +2348169418325.

    LinkedIn Local-Lagos is also seeking dynamic people to become part of their incredible volunteer team. The following areas require volunteers: crowd management, communication, ushering, and event decoration. You can use your enthusiasm and abilities as a volunteer to help make LinkedIn Local-Lagos 4.0 a success. 

    Read also: LinkedIn moves to boost revenue with AI-assisted content creation

    Prize to be won at LinkedIn Local Lagos 4.0

    The launch of the LLL Entrepreneurship Fund by Renda Africa, which aims to advance applicants’ businesses at the event, is a highlight of the occasion. Three worthy companies will get a million Naira each from Renda Africa at LinkedIn Local Lagos 4.0. 

    To be eligible for the cash award, a business must meet the following requirements: (1) must be registered for at least a year; (2) have a CAC document; (3) attend the LLL 4.0 event (4) have a LinkedIn page or account; and (5) Write an essay in 300 words or less how this money will affect their company.

  • Nigeria to host GITEX Africa 2025 – the continent largest tech show

    Nigeria to host GITEX Africa 2025 – the continent largest tech show

    The largest tech show on the continent, GITEX Africa, will visit Nigeria in 2025 thanks to a Memorandum of Understanding signed on Thursday afternoon by Trixie LohMirmand, the managing director of the Dubai World Trade Centre, and Kachifu Inuwa, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency.

    GITEX Africa, the continent’s most prominent tech showcase, is expected to be held in Nigeria in September 2025 in Lagos and Abuja. Here are some key points about the event: GITEX Africa will bring a unique formula that aligns with Nigeria’s national strategy.

    Read also: GITEX Africa 2024 kicks off in Morocco

    The event will be a massive opportunity for the continent and the world to see the country’s most important countries and startups. Also, GITEX Africa 2024 will occur in Morocco from May 29-31, 2024, followed by GITEX Global in Dubai from October 14-18, 2024.

    GITEX will debut in Europe in 2025, scheduled for May 21-23.

    GITEX: Driving Economic Diversification through Technology

    GITEX Africa 2025 will be a platform for Nigerian tech companies and startups to showcase their innovations to a global audience, foster partnerships, attract investment and accelerate the sector’s growth.

    The event is a strategic move to promote the country’s technology ecosystem further. With a focus on showcasing local talents and solutions, the event is expected to drive technological advancement, economic diversification, and job creation in the region.

    Nigeria’s Quest for Sustainable Technological and Economic Growth

    President Bola Tinubu has made it clear that economic diversification is a top priority for his administration, and he is keen on exploring all avenues to achieve this goal. According to Kachifu Inuwa, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the President has given a clear mandate to facilitate critical aspects of this diversification.

    Inuwa emphasised that economic diversification is not a solo effort, and Nigeria cannot achieve it in isolation. The country must engage with other nations, international organisations, and global players to leverage their expertise, resources, and markets.

    Read also: Teen Tech Expo inspires youths to create innovative digitised solutions

    This is where events like GITEX Africa provide a platform for Nigeria to showcase its technological advancements, innovations, and investment opportunities to a global audience.

    By facilitating economic growth, NITDA aims to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on a single commodity, promote sustainable economic improvement, and create new opportunities for Nigerian businesses and entrepreneurs.

    The agency is working closely with other government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and international partners to achieve this objective, and events like GITEX Africa are expected to play a significant role in this journey.

    Nigeria is the most populous nation with a vibrant technology scene. The staging of GITEX in the country presents a huge opportunity for the continent and the world to see the country’s most innovative tech and startups.

  • Inaugural Ethiopian Startup Awards 2024 to take place in June

    Inaugural Ethiopian Startup Awards 2024 to take place in June

    The first-ever Ethiopian Startup Awards, a Global Startup Awards Africa event, will be held in Addis Ababa on 3-4 June by the Global Innovation Initiative Group (GIIG) to raise awareness of Ethiopia’s growing startup scene.

    There were 11,900 entries in this year’s Global Startup Awards Africa competition from 54 African countries. Of those, 24% came from Ethiopia, which is the host country for Africa and one of the 120 countries that take part in the Global Startup Awards programme

    Read also: GITEX Africa 2024 kicks off in Morocco

    Empowering Ethiopia’s Tech Startups

    The two-day event hosted by GIIG Ministry of Labour and Skills (MOLS), Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MINT) and Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) will feature “Training session” – industry specialists will facilitate hands-on training sessions, equipping participants with skills and knowledge to succeed in the startup ecosystem. “Pitching opportunities” will give Startups a chance to pitch their ideas to a panel of investors, incubators, and accelerators, potentially securing funding and support.

    There will be a series of “workshops” that will engage participants in workshops focusing on innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, led by industry experts and thought leaders.

    Furthermore, “Networking of participants” will encourage connecting with like-minded entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry experts, fostering valuable connections and collaborations.

    In addition, the event will culminate in an “Awards show”, announcing the Ethiopian finalists and celebrating their achievements in innovation and entrepreneurship.

    Celebrating Ethiopia’s Tech Startup Successes

    Next week’s events will begin on June 3rd to 4th, 2024, at the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) with an awards ceremony celebrating the best Ethiopian startups who made it to the regional finals by advancing through the various competitions that make them stand out.

    Read also: RegTech Africa Conference 2024: Bridging the data trust gap

    The successes and innovations of these outstanding companies will be honoured at this esteemed event, which will also celebrate their commitment and dedication to entrepreneurship and technical growth and development in Ethiopia.

    The two-day event is fully packaged with the activities mentioned earlier, all aimed at empowering and supporting Ethiopia’s startup ecosystem.

    Ethiopia is becoming more and more known as a centre for tech innovation, and this is partly due to the country’s selection as the 2024 GSA Africa Awards host.

    According to HE Ms Muferihat Kamil Ahmed, minister of labour and skills, “The youth category’s focus on youth entrepreneurship is a unique aspect that highlights Ethiopia’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and job creators, and I look forward to celebrating their successes.”