If you follow news on development in Africa you have probably seen articles about the rapid economic growth of the continent. The statistics show that the economic outlook of Africa is optimistic across all sectors, especially in ICT. Many countres such as Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa and Morocco are capitalizing on ICT as a key growth sector for their economies. They have realized the importance of staying ahead of the technology game and creating an enabling environment for innovation and private investment.
According to a report by the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and the African Union, the ICT market in Africa is projected to be worth $150 billion by 2016. This number signifies the increasing opportunities in the tech field across the continent.
Tech and incubator hubs play a significant role in fostering the growth of the ICT sector. These spaces are essential for connecting tech entreprenuers and enthusiasts, like-minded individuals, and mentors. Investors and recruiters are also keeping a close eye on hubs, waiting to fund the next big idea or recruit techies to be part of their companies. Hubs often partner with major tech companies such as Google and IBM to launch competitions and initiatives that foster technology development.
A glance at four tech hubs and incubators across Africa, highlight the booming tech industry on the continent:
iHub
The iHub is a tech hub and hackerspace based in Nairobi, Kenya. Founded in 2010 by blogger, entrepreneur, and TED fellow, Erik Hersman.
Some innovations that have come out of the iHub are:
m:lab– first tech incubator in Kenya (2011)
Mobile testing room– all the tablets and phones from the manufacturers (2011)
iHub Research– tech focused research arm (2011)
UX Lab– first user experience lab in East Africa (2012)
iHub Consulting– an effort to connect freelancers to training and businesses (2012)
Savannah Fund– a funding and accelerator program (2012)
Cluster– first open supercomputer cluster in East Africa (2013)
Gearbox– an open makerspace for rapid prototyping (2013)
Volunteer Network team– the iHub internet network was setup, and is run by, volunteers
ActivSpaces
ActivSpaces is a tech hub based in Buea, Cameroon with two co-working spaces and an incubator program called Activation Bootcamp. The co-working space is free to tech entrepreneurs who are actively working on a startup. Their Activation Bootcamp is a highly selective rigorous six-month accelerator program. This hub also hosts a variety of events for the wider tech community.
Bongohive
Lusaka´s technology and innovation hub, Bongohive is one of the oldest hubs in Africa. Their focus is on innovation, creativity, and sustainability and ultimately believe that technology can be used to leapfrog development in Zambia.
MEST
The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST) and the MEST Incubator program, based in Accra, Ghana, provide training, investment and mentoring for aspiring technology entrepreneurs with the goal of creating globally successful companies that create wealth and jobs locally in Africa.
Photo: Internet Cafe in Kampala Uganda/World Bank; Map: World Bank 2014
Bethel Tsegaye is the Media and Development Contributor. She enjoys empowering and equipping people with the resources and skills to tell their stories. Follow her tweets: @betheltsegaye
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