The Africa Startup Festival has called for increased innovation to drive the growth and transformation of Africa’s startup ecosystem.
Held recently in Lagos, the 2024 edition of the festival brought together over 3,000 stakeholders, including innovators, investors, and policymakers from more than 15 countries, to explore strategies for advancing the continent’s technology and entrepreneurial landscape.
It also featured more than 30 industry-leading speakers, including Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science & Technology, Olatubosun Alake; US Consul General, Lagos, Will Stevens; and Oyin Solebo (investor and advisor), among others.
ASF Convener and CEO of Spark, Nnaemeka Clinton, emphasized the importance of purpose-driven innovation in Africa’s development.
“Africa is often spoken about like it’s a promise waiting to be fulfilled. But I see a continent already delivering. I see people in this room creating answers to questions no one else has dared to ask. I see innovation born out of necessity, urgency, and heart.
“But this moment is fragile. What we build here can either grow into something that shifts how the world sees us—or it can stop at hashtags and panel discussions. And that choice is on us.
“The Africa Startup Festival is more than just an event; it is a catalyst for growth, fostering innovation and collaboration that drives transformative impact across the continent, “ he stated.
