2 min read

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Africa is increasingly experiencing technological transformation as tech hubs continue to increase in the continent. And now the world watches Africa as the next big market for technology innovation, thanks to its youthful tech-savvy population.

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There has been an emergence of a technology ecosystem in Africa over the past few years – a trend characterised by the collaboration of entrepreneurs, innovation centres, and technology ventures. This trend is significantly boosting business and modernity, bringing the much-desired transformation in Africa. As a result, the buoyant technology climate is transitioning the continent from the global economy's sidelines into the mainstream.

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Despite Africa's slow start in software development, it's now speeding up, making it the fastest-growing continent in technology adoption. The rapid digital transformation in Africa is mainly powered by a growing pool of local software engineering talent.

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There are currently 643 hubs spread throughout Africa, and this number is expected to continue growing. Examples of such hubs include Co-creation Hub in Lagos, Nigeria, and iHub in Nairobi, Kenya. The sprout of tech hubs has made it possible to nurture and incubate Africa’s software engineering talent while exposing developers to global markets.

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Africa has notably exhibited resilience in technology investments even amid the coronavirus pandemic as tech giants expand their presence on the continent. Tech giants in Silicon Valley are now more interested in Africa’s transformation than ever, making Africa the next destination of the world's innovation. For instance, Microsoft is investing more than $100 million in developing innovation centres in Africa and is expected to train and employ over 500 African developers by 2023.

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Software tech innovation in Africa has tremendously impacted Africans’ socio-economic livelihood. Thanks to tech innovations, vital sectors such as e-commerce, banking and finance, transport, and energy have significantly transformed. For example, Africa now has Jumia, an e-commerce giant founded in Nigeria – and now dominating the continent. Also, Kenya’s MPESA has made mobile banking convenient for Kenyan’s and created a model that is being replicated not only in Africa but worldwide.

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Indeed, the technological revolution has remarkably changed the lives of Africans. Africa's software developers have also changed the world's perception of the continent. Consequently, the historical stereotypes and prejudice against people of colour are now evading. Melanated people are today perceived as intelligent people capable of innovating real solutions for the world.

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And as the continent’s tech talent continues to grow, Africa is strategically poised to make a massive impact in the world of innovation.

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Africa’s future is fluid and open. The continuing technological advancement, broadband penetration, and global investment in Africa offer the Tech-savvy youth infinite opportunities to hone their talent and revitalise the continent. As junior developers continue to join the market, they can work for local ecosystems or work remotely for global companies.

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At WeAfric, we value the role of the African Diaspora in Africa's development. That is why we strive to connect all African descendants to their African roots in one social networking platform. We endeavour to inculcate a culture of using our resources and talent to empower the African community economically.

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