Africa’s major tech event provides startups a platform to showcase innovations, learn from entrepreneurs, and connect with regulators from across the continent.
Marrakech is ready to welcome the second edition of GITEX Africa from May 29 to 31, 2024. Organized by the Dubai World Trade Centre, the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) aims this year to bring together around 100 Nigerian tech companies to showcase their innovations and compete for significant prizes. During a stakeholders’ meeting on February 27 of this year, the organizers announced their plans to expand Nigeria’s participation in the event.
They notably acknowledged the significant role that Nigerian tech startups have played in developing Africa’s tech ecosystem over the past years. Last year, 70 Nigerian startups participated in the inaugural edition of GITEX, out of a total of 450 global participants. Participating startups will have the chance to compete for a $100,000 prize for the most convincing innovation and other awards, including the Young African CEO award, which comes with a cash prize.
The 100 Nigerian startups were selected from accelerators and other stakeholders collaborating with the Dubai World Trade Centre. GITEX Africa provides a platform for startups to showcase their innovations to a diverse group of investors from various countries, learn from experienced entrepreneurs and founders, and connect with regulators on the continent.
Post-event support includes linking startups with investors based on their industry and organizing programs that enable startups to meet potential customers, including government agencies seeking innovative solutions to their countries’ challenges. The event will feature several planned sessions, including AI Everything, Cybersecurity Forum, Future of Finance Summit, GITEX Impact Africa, and World Future Health Africa.
The launch of the World Future Health Africa session is intended to draw more attention to the digital health space, which has the potential to provide affordable and accessible healthcare. However, funding for digital health companies and projects in Africa remains low due to the complex and varied regulatory landscape, which can deter potential investors.
Although GITEX is sector-independent, organizers often follow market trends and seek startups offering solutions in areas where investors are focused, such as artificial intelligence, fintech, agrotech, and healthtech. Startups with products already on the market are preferred, but founders with tested and market-ready ideas can also pitch their ideas to investors if they have some traction.
GITEX Africa 2024 promises to be an extensive event, bringing together tech innovators, industry leaders, and policymakers to promote the continent’s digital transformation. The event will feature notable participants and speakers, workshops, training sessions, and exhibitions, providing a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing among African tech stakeholders.
Morocco World News
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