By Intel and AfriLabs Celebrate Successful Conclusion of AI Programme for African DeepTech Startups
In a collaborative effort to drive innovation and growth within Africa’s DeepTech ecosystem, Intel and AfriLabs have marked the successful conclusion of the Intel AI Programme for African DeepTech Startups & Ecosystem Stakeholders. The event, which took place in Abuja from March 5 to 7, 2024, served as a key platform for stakeholders to explore the transformative potential of DeepTech across the continent.
Organized by AfriLabs in partnership with Intel, the event aimed to foster growth and innovation within Nigeria’s DeepTech ecosystem. Participants, including government officials, industry experts, startups, developers, and ecosystem stakeholders, gathered to discuss the challenges, opportunities, and prospects of DeepTech in Africa.
The event kicked off with opening remarks from prominent government officials and representatives from Intel and AfriLabs. Dr. Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo, Director of Government Affairs Africa and IGA CTO Liaison at Intel, set the stage with a presentation that explored the socio-economic and policy implications of DeepTech in Africa.
A high-level panel discussion followed, featuring representatives from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Intel, and other industry partners. The session, moderated by Jennifer Okeke-Ojiudu, Senior Ecosystem Engagements Manager at AfriLabs, offered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Africa’s DeepTech ecosystem.
Day one concluded with a High-Level Roundtable Discussion on AI Policy, facilitated by Dr. Soglo of Intel, engaging the Director-General of the National Centre for Technology Management, government officials, and AI ecosystem stakeholders.
Day two focused on empowering startups, developers, and innovation hubs with the tools and resources necessary to succeed in the AI landscape. Highlights included an introduction to the Intel® Liftoff for AI Startups Program, presentations on Intel Developer Cloud and the OneAPI initiative, and insights from industry experts. The day wrapped up with presentations from leading innovation hubs, deepening the conversation on DeepTech entrepreneurship in Nigeria.
The final day of the event centered on building vibrant startup communities and fostering collaboration among ecosystem stakeholders. Keynote addresses from figures such as Ajibola Odukoya, Chief Operating Officer at AfriLabs, and Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of NITDA, underscored the role of government in driving innovation across Africa. Presentations from various innovation hubs highlighted the importance of community-building and collaboration in advancing Africa’s DeepTech ecosystem.
Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi emphasized the importance of collaboration and shared vision in his address: “At NITDA, we firmly believe that no single entity can navigate this landscape alone. Collective effort is imperative. Our vision for Nigeria is one of digital empowerment, innovation-driven prosperity, and inclusive economic growth fostered by technology. The global AI race has commenced, and Nigeria is determined to lead it. With Africa’s abundant talent and youthful population, we are poised to play a significant role in shaping the future.”
Reflecting on the success of the event, Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director at AfriLabs, stated, “This collaboration has provided a platform for meaningful engagement, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, laying the foundation for future innovation and growth across Africa.”
As the Intel AI Programme for African DeepTech Startups & Ecosystem Stakeholders draws to a close, the legacy of collaboration, innovation, and empowerment endures. Looking ahead, Africa’s DeepTech community is set on a path of continued growth, resilience, and limitless possibilities.
