By Yemisi Suleiman
The Global Tech Africa (GTA) Conference 2024 has come to a close, leaving a lasting impact on the continent’s tech landscape
The Global Tech Africa (GTA) Conference 2024 attracted over 6,000 participants, 100+ speakers, and numerous exhibitors to the Landmark Event Center in Lagos, Nigeria. The three-day event, held from July 24th-26th, focused on the theme Global Collaborations, Local Transformations, highlighting opportunities and challenges in Africa’s tech landscape, with a special emphasis on AI, fintech, cybersecurity, and more.
Ascend Studios Foundation), Hajia Hadiza Umar (NITDA representative), Ahamdu Galadima
(COO Future Map Foundation), Linda Ochugbua (Head of Online sales and Digital
platforms, Business Day)
Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General of NITDA, expressed the government’s commitment to technological innovation for economic diversification, stating, We are dedicated to supporting local tech startups and businesses to ensure they thrive and contribute to the growth of our economy.
Kenise Hill, U.S. Consulate General Lagos, discussed US-Africa partnerships in AI development, noting, Collaboration between our nations is crucial for advancing AI technology and fostering economic growth in Africa.
The conference featured four dynamic stages: Epicenter Stage, Startup Stage, Outsource Factory Stage, and The Deal Room. Panel sessions and masterclasses covered topics such as women empowerment, AI, fintech, agriculture, edtech, health tech, and cybersecurity, with participants from Venture Garden Group, SEC Nigeria, NITDA, MoFI, Flying Doctors Healthcare Investment Group, Deloitte, Career Buddy, Helium Health, Semicolon, Alajo, American Business Council, Lagos Business School, PwC, NCAIR, NITDA, Simplify Synergy, Sh’Emerge, Nextwear Technologies, Yudimy, and others.
The Deal Room showcased over 10 investors focusing on over 150 selected investees across 16 industries. Tech companies and startups displayed innovative products, and the National Creativity Competition highlighted university students’ innovative ideas.
As GTA 2024 concluded, it emphasized the potential of Africa’s digital economy and the commitment of its leaders and stakeholders to its growth and development.