From HSBC to Binance: Hannes Wessels on leading Africa’s crypto rise under Richard Teng’s vision
They’ve declared bitcoin dead 53 times but it keeps getting stronger each time, says Hannes Wessels, General Manager of South Africa for Binance, which boasts the world’s most prominent blockchain ecosystem. In this fascinating conversation with Topco Media CEO Ralf Fletcher, on the Business Unusual Podcast, the former HSBC banker simplifies some technical aspects of the crypto world, addresses misconceptions and offers a sophisticated perspective on bitcoin investment cycles and the market dynamics in South Africa. Whether you’re a casual speculator, a crypto die-hard, financial professional, or just someone who wants to know more about how the future is happening you’ll get: Watch on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts
Leading with Heart in the Age of AI
By Brian Eagar In 2025, leadership is changing in two main ways. The first is through human-centred leadership. This style has come about after many years of leadership that focused on authority, hierarchy and top-down control, often ignoring people’s well-being and personal needs to pursue productivity and profit. Human-centred leadership flips the script and puts the needs, well-being and growth of individuals before tasks or profit. It values empathy, listening carefully and creating a supportive place where people feel respected. More and more organisations are choosing to operate this way, recognising the benefits of human-centred leadership to boost employee engagement and belonging, resulting in a marked improvement in productivity, innovation and ultimately business performance. The second way leadership is being shaped in 2025 is by the rise of AI. While AI’s promise of efficiency is exciting, relying too much on technology can hurt the goals of human-centred leadership. The focus on efficiency, innovation and growth can shift attention back to tasks and results, often ignoring people’s well-being. According to a CNBC SurveyMonkey Workforce survey, 60% of employees who use AI reported that they worry about its impact on their jobs. Insights from the Harvard Business Review also found that, in addition to concerns about AI’s impact, motivation dropped by 11% and boredom increased by 20% when using AI in the workplace. As concerns about job security and uncertainty grow, leaders need to act now. Success will come from leading with both people and technology in mind, with clear understanding and care. This means recognising the power of AI but also being aware of its hidden effects. The promises and reality of AI AI offers great benefits. It can take over routine tasks, help us make better decisions and let teams do more important work. From smart assistants that organise schedules and messages, to systems that give fast data insights, AI aims to make work easier and people more productive. By automating simple tasks, AI can reduce the time and energy employees spend on admin work. This should let people spend more time on creative thinking, solving problems and working closely with others. Leaders are told AI will boost human ability by handling boring tasks and helping us think and work better. In this view, AI does not replace people. It helps them. It is like a teammate, coach or tool that makes work smoother and opens up opportunities for new ideas and growth. But this is only part of the story. Even though AI has benefits, it also causes some hidden problems. Its advantages come with challenges that can negatively impact job difficulty, create stress and reduce how much control employees and teams have over decisions that are based on AI outputs. According to the Deloitte 2025 Human Capital Report, while AI is often praised for improving productivity and easing workloads, its impact on employees reveals significant hidden challenges. 77% of workers report that AI has increased their workloads and 61% fear it contributes to higher burnout rates. Although AI automates up to 45% of routine tasks, employees are left with more complex and mentally demanding work, making their jobs harder rather than easier. Additionally, 33% of workers report reduced human interaction and collaboration due to AI and 28% feel a loss of personal connection. This shows how AI can make workers feel isolated and lonely. Deloitte emphasises that these effects are often unintended and overlooked by leaders who focus on AI’s efficiency gains. This can erode trust and weaken the employee-employer relationship if not addressed proactively. Leading with both heart and AI With this type of study data available, it’s obvious that leaders will have to find the right balance between utilising AI and implementing human-centred leadership styles. Here are three simple ways to do this: 1. Understand the trade-offs Good leaders know that while AI can boost productivity, it can also create problems. Automating work can increase workloads and lead to burnout and letting AI make too many decisions can make workers feel less in control. Also, replacing human interaction with technology can lead to isolation. Leaders must recognise these risks and respond with care and responsibility, always putting employees’ best interests first. This includes intentionally creating an environment where people feel safe to speak up, share concerns and know that their well-being matters; not allowing the grind to take over but instead checking in regularly and creating space for genuine connection. When people feel psychologically safe and know their voices are heard, a sense of belonging grows, even in times of change and especially when that change is introduced through the use of AI. 2. Work with employees to adopt AI Instead of forcing AI on workers, organisations should involve them in deciding how and when it is used. This collaborative approach leads to better and more meaningful use of AI, builds trust and gives employees a greater sense of control. When people help shape the tools they use, they feel more ownership and confidence in their work. They feel their input is valued and respected and this, in turn, supports a stronger sense of belonging, because workers feel included in important decisions that affect their roles. 3. Reinforce the human core of work As the use of technology grows, the risk of loneliness and disconnection increases. Leaders should respond by investing in human connection through mentoring and opportunities for collaboration around shared goals. This creates space for forging genuine relationships, teamwork and emotional support. A strong team is built not just on tools but on trust, care and shared purpose. In 2025, strong leadership means balancing the power of AI and technology with a deep commitment to people. While technology can drive progress, it must not come at the cost of well-being, connection or control. Human-centred leadership reminds us that when people come first, business benefits through stronger performance and better results. Generative AI is positioned as a tool to augment human skills, not replace them. Leveraging human creativity, empathy and contextual
‘Success without people is empty’ – Africa Tech Founder of the Year Oscar Molaba
By Koketso Mamabolo Vision, perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit is what defines the Africa Tech Founder of the Year. For the judges of this year’s awards, Oscar Molaba, the founder of Batanidza Technologies, has demonstrated “exceptional leadership, innovation and impact” which landed him one of the headline awards at the ceremony held on after the first day of this year’s Sentech Africa Tech Week summit, held in Cape Town. Batanidza Technologies describes itself as a link between people, organisations and technology, offering innovative solutions such as AI software-testing and IT resource augmentation. The company has achieved rapid growth over the last six years driven by Oscar’s extensive experience in ICT consulting, business development, and strategic growth. “I founded Batanidza to create a consulting business where people felt seen, valued, and impactful. The journey has been anything but linear, but it’s been rich with purpose.” We found from Oscar what inspires him, what the biggest lesson in his career is, and more. Congratulations on winning the Tech Founder of the Year award. What does winning the award mean to you and your organisation? Winning this award is deeply meaningful, not just for me, but for everyone at Batanidza Technologies. It’s a powerful affirmation that purpose-driven leadership matters, and that building with heart, with people in mind, and with Ubuntu at the core, can lead to real success. This recognition is also a tribute to my team, most of whom are women, who have carried our vision forward with excellence, grace, and grit. For us, this award is not the finish line; it’s fuel for the road ahead. Read: The full list of winners from 2025 Africa Tech Awards Please tell us about your journey, how did you get to this point in your career? I started as a junior software tester nearly two decades ago. Back then, I was just eager to learn and earn my place in a fast-paced industry. Over the years, I climbed the ranks through roles in QA, project delivery, business development, and eventually strategic planning. But I always felt a disconnect in many environments, consultants were often treated like numbers. That discomfort became my drive. I founded Batanidza to create a consulting business where people felt seen, valued, and impactful. The journey has been anything but linear, but it’s been rich with purpose. What are the biggest lessons you’ve learnt in your journey and how have you been able to apply them? The biggest lesson? Success without people is empty. I’ve learned that culture eats strategy every day, if your people aren’t aligned with your purpose, no strategy will hold. I’ve also learned to trust timing; growth doesn’t always come as fast as we’d like, but consistency compounds. At Batanidza, we applied these lessons by building a culture that prioritizes inclusion, collaboration, and integrity. We don’t just hire skills, we hire values. That’s helped us scale sustainably and build a brand that people trust. What inspires you to do what you do? I’m inspired by the possibility of creating real, lasting change, especially in communities that have historically been left behind by the tech economy. Every project we deliver, every consultant we mentor, every job we create, it all contributes to something bigger than ourselves. Seeing someone grow into their potential because they were given an opportunity, that drives me. I believe that technology should be a tool for empowerment, and I wake up every day with a deep sense of purpose knowing that Batanidza is helping to build a more inclusive, more connected future for Africa. What do you believe are the major trends we should be looking out for in the next few years? The next few years will be shaped by AI integration, cloud-first strategies, and automated testing at scale, but beyond the tech, the bigger trend will be human-centered innovation. The companies that will lead are those that can blend emerging tech with empathy, ethics, and relevance to local needs. I also believe inclusive hiring and digital access in underserved communities will become not just moral imperatives, but competitive differentiators. The future is digital, yes, but it must also be deeply human.
Bold leadership needed to close Africa’s AI gap
By Dumisani Moyo Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries and societies around the world. In Africa, it holds immense potential to tackle deep-rooted challenges in healthcare, education, financial inclusion, and unemployment. Yet while the AI technology gap dominates the conversation, the more urgent issue is the need for bold leadership. AI is often positioned as the next frontier of human progress. In Africa, that promise is constrained by significant barriers including inadequate infrastructure, limited investment, poor internet access, and fragile data ecosystems. According to the United Nations, while 85% of Africa’s population has access to 3G, only 38% use the internet, well below the global average of 68%. This highlights a disconnect between infrastructure availability and meaningful digital inclusion. Despite pervasive challenges, AI innovation is gaining momentum across the continent. In Zimbabwe, Dr. CADx uses AI to enhance radiology diagnostics. In Kenya, M-Shule delivers personalised learning via SMS, expanding access to education in areas with limited internet. In South Africa, Aerobotics uses AI to help farmers boost crop yields. Founded in Cape Town, the company now operates in 18 countries, with its largest market in the United States. In Nigeria, LifeBank uses AI and data analytics to connect hospitals with critical supplies such as blood and vaccines. Yet we play a limited role in the global AI value chain. According to the World Economic Forum, between 2022 and 2023, the continent attracted only $641-million in AI-related venture capital, a mere 0.3% of the projected $184-billion in global AI investments. Initiatives like IndabaX are working to change that narrative. Since 2018, this community-led network has brought together AI stakeholders across Africa to strengthen skills in machine learning and AI. By 2024, it had expanded to 47 countries, and plays a vital role in building local expertise and advancing continent-wide engagement. Partnerships pave the way Harnessing AI’s full potential requires more than technical expertise. It demands foresight, coordination, and a clear strategy shaped around Africa’s unique opportunities and challenges. While some governments have launched national AI strategies, AI is still often seen as a futuristic concept in many boardrooms. Universities face the challenge of updating curricula fast enough, and policymakers often struggle to keep pace with rapid technological change. Encouragingly, initiatives are gaining momentum across the continent. Rwanda’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR), in partnership with the World Economic Forum, places AI at its core. Ghana’s National AI Strategy targets growth across healthcare, education, ethics, and capacity-building. South Africa’s Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (PC4IR) has prioritised AI alongside other transformative technologies. Kenya’s Blockchain and AI Task Force is already looking at how emerging tech can drive development, financial inclusion, and job creation. But closing the gap will take bold action and a broad-based effort that engages Africa’s youth across every stage of the AI value chain, from classrooms to boardrooms. With 60% of the population under 25, Africa is the world’s youngest and fastest-growing continent. That youth represents a powerful force for innovation provided they are equipped with the technical skills, leadership, governance, and strategic insight to solve local problems at scale. Leadership critical to reap AI benefits Without leaders who can envision the possibilities, commit resources, and invest intentionally, even the most advanced technology will fail to deliver impact. AI is more than a tool. It has the potential to influence policy, shape education reform, transform business models, and redefine systems across healthcare, finance, and governance. If Africa does not play an active role in designing, applying, and regulating AI, others will define the future on its behalf. This poses significant risks, including systems built on foreign datasets that misrepresent African realities or fail to address local needs. Closing the leadership gap requires building a new generation of decision-makers who not only understand technology, but also grasp its wider social, ethical, and economic dimensions. Africa needs leaders who can think strategically about AI and create environments where inclusive innovation can thrive. Unlocking Africa’s AI potential To thrive in the AI era, Africa must co-create, co-innovate, and lead. Bridging both the technology and leadership gaps demands a coordinated and sustained effort across four key areas: Africa stands at a defining moment. Shaping a truly African AI future will require a shared vision, bold leadership, and deep collaboration across government, business, academia, and civil society. As the African proverb says, “Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it.” Dumisani Moyo is the Marketing Director at SAP Africa
Building tomorrow at Sentech Africa Tech Week 2025
By Rehana Rutti Stepping into the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town a couple weeks ago felt like walking onto the set of the future. As both a judge and award presenter, I was immersed in an electrifying atmosphere of possibility—where every pitch, panel, and conversation underscored one truth: Africa isn’t waiting for the future; we’re creating it. A kaleidoscope of ideas Over two exhilarating days, the Century City Conference Centre transformed into a living lab of innovation. Engaging panel discussions explored green AI in agriculture, showcasing how machine-learning models predict drought cycles and optimise water use—saving both crops and communities. In another session, inclusive design took centre stage, with experts demonstrating apps that adapt interfaces for diverse languages, abilities, and internet speeds. Attendees experienced firsthand how these tools bridge digital access gaps and empower more equitable participation in the tech economy. Between sessions, the networking lounges hummed with energy. I swapped stories over coffee-fuelled conversations with visionary founders who’ve turned informal settlements into data-driven smart villages, and policy makers mapping out digital-equity roadmaps for the continent. Each conversation felt like adding a new brushstroke to Africa’s evolving tech masterpiece. Themes that sparked my imagination My takeaways as an AI enthusiast Looking ahead: Joining hands to shape tomorrow As I presented the Technology Company of the Year Award to XLink at the gala dinner—trophy in hand, heart full of hope—I couldn’t help but feel we’re on the cusp of something extraordinary. The future isn’t a distant horizon; it’s happening in real time, fuelled by passion, collaboration, and a shared belief that technology can—and must—be a force for good. Let’s carry this momentum forward: keep asking bold questions, designing with intention, and building bridges between innovators, communities, and decision-makers. Because when Africa leads with heart and vision, we aren’t just creating technology—we’re crafting a future that works for all of us. READ: The full list of Africa Tech Week Award winners
Organisations big and small celebrated at the 7th annual Africa Tech Week Awards
On the evening of 3 June 2025 we celebrated excellence in tech at the 7th annual Africa Tech Week Awards. The awards were opened with a keynote address delivered by Hon. Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, who reminded us of the importance of celebrating achievements, especially when it comes to people and businesses advancing technology in South Africa and the wider continent. The black-tie event took place on the first evening of the 2-day Sentech Africa Tech Week conference hosted by comedian Alan Committee, where guests were treated to dinner and a show. We congratulate the finalists and winners in the organisational and individual categories: Organisational Awards: AFRICA TECH: START–UP AWARD Sponsored by Sentech Winner: LEMI App AFRICA TECH: FINTECH AWARD Winner: Wonga Online AFRICA TECH: TECH IMPACT AWARD Sponsored by City of Cape Town WInner: Old Mutual AFRICA TECH: DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AWARD Winner: Etapath AFRICA TECH: PUBLIC SECTOR DIGITAL INNOVATOR AWARD Winner: MMT Inland (Mint Group) AFRICA TECH: TECHNOLOGY COMPANY OF THE YEAR AWARD Winner: XLink AFRICA TECH: SECURITY TECHNOLOGY COMPANY AWARD Winner: PaySolutions AFRICA TECH: EDTECH AWARD Winner: WeThinkCode_ AFRICA TECH: AI INNOVATION AWARD Sponsored by iME Winner: LexisNexis AFRICA TECH: HEALTHTECH AWARD Winner: AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals Individual Awards: AFRICA TECH: WOMEN IN TECH AWARD Winner: Xoliswa Kakana – ICT Works AFRICA TECH: LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD Winner: Trishen Moodley – MAST SERVICES (PTY) LTD AFRICA TECH: TECH FOUNDER OF THE YEAR AWARD Winner: Oscar Molaba – Batanidza Technologies For more information on the Africa Tech Week please email marketing@africatechweek.co.za. To enter the 2026 awards please contact quarnita.jumat@topco.co.za. Visit our LinkedIn page for more on Africa Tech Week and to congratulate our winners.
Youth Empowerment: South Africa’s most critical investment in the age of AI
By Ravi Naidoo, CEO, Youth Employment Service As the Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution accelerates, empowering South Africa’s youth means preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that this transformation brings. On this journey, we face a critical juncture. We’ve increased access to higher education and created innovative work experience programmes like the Youth Employment Service (YES), but we’re still grappling with a world of rapid technological change that threatens to leave many people behind. As the COVID-19 crisis demonstrated, the world will bifurcate between those countries that possess technological capabilities and those that lag behind. Hence vaccine-producing rich countries kept six vaccines per citizen before they released vaccines to Africa (which barely could get six per 100 people). Moreover, technological capabilities are enabling a “cross-species transmission” in an economic sense – for example, companies once more famous for making cellphones are now producing state-of-the-art SUVs. There is no question that as new technology advances, many old industries will be massively disrupted with concomitant employment implications. Accordingly, it is imperative that we prepare young people for that technology-driven future. The Harvard Business Review investigated the challenges and opportunities presented by AI’s impact on the labour market. Tools like ChatGPT and image-generating AI have significantly impacted automation-prone jobs like writing, software development, and coding. This indicates that workers in automation-prone jobs are more likely to face challenges in this shifting job market compared to manual-intensive jobs. To keep up and remain hireable, they’ll need a diverse skillset and a comprehensive understanding of AI tools. It’s clear that basic digital skills are foundational to mastering AI and successfully navigating the workplace of the future. The African Development Bank Group projects that by 2025, at least 263 million young Africans will lack economic opportunities, partly due to a lack of digital skills. According to The African Union’s AI for Sustainable Youth Development in Africa Report, “If harnessed effectively, emerging digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence could create new jobs and business opportunities in agriculture, health, trade, and education, among other sectors.” Countries across Africa are waking up to these possibilities and starting to invest in AI upskilling to overcome challenges in these sectors and beyond. Our mandate is clear. We must harness the enormous potential of AI by addressing South Africa’s digital divide and upskilling our youth. This begins with providing essential digital infrastructure at a basic education level and building on these skills in universities and in the workplace to align with global standards. Although universities are producing highly skilled STEM graduates, the current state of youth unemployment in South Africa shows that formal education is still falling short when it comes to preparing youth for this digital shift. While South Africa has made strides in increasing access to tertiary education—with universities like UJ growing their student population by 50% in just four years—we still face a critical challenge as students struggle to complete their qualifications. A 60% dropout rate in first year is a clear indication that we need to rethink our approach to youth empowerment through education. The reality is that a qualification rapidly loses value without practical experience. Our survey of 150 employers at YES shows that two years of practical work experience is valued almost equally to a three-year tertiary qualification highlighting the importance of programmes like YES in preparing youth for the demands of the workplace beyond tertiary education. This is not to diminish the importance of formal education—universities play a crucial role in developing critical thinking skills and providing deep contextual understanding. However, the traditional model of “get a degree and you’re set for life” is obsolete, particularly in the age of AI. Practical work experience that applies theoretical learning in real-world contexts is crucial for bridging the gap between education and the workforce. Organisations have recognised the importance of continuous upskilling through courses and training for employees, particularly when it comes to key digital skills and integrating AI into organisational structures. We’ve already seen this happening with companies like Microsoft, Amazon and other tech giants offering AI-accredited programmes that are more agile and market-relevant than traditional government-accredited courses. If businesses followed these examples and gave South Africa’s youth the opportunity to access invaluable skills and work experience, we could build a tech savvy generation, ready to take on the digital revolution. At YES, we’re making this happen by providing young South Africans with practical work experience and access to crucial tech skills that enhance their employability. Our voluntary programme has enabled 1,834 corporates to fund over 170,000 youth in quality first jobs, with an average of 3,000 youth joining monthly. We’re seeing incredible results. Part of this success is our incorporation of AI training into our modules, which has been proven to grow market-relevant skills and foster innovation. By partnering with YES, businesses can provide youth with access to essential digital skills development and AI upskilling. If corporate South Africa matched the youth employment commitments of current YES clients, we could create approximately 150,000 youth jobs annually at current GDP growth rates. More broadly, this means building a more resilient economy and a sustainable future for South Africa as our economy becomes more dependent on harnessing AI for growth. AI holds enormous potential to transform how we work and down barriers to economic development. Harnessing this potential means investing in our youth by providing access to the skills needed to master this emerging technology. Through collaboration between key stakeholders, from government to the private sector, we can help the next generation thrive in the age of AI and put South Africa on the map as a leader in the global digital landscape.
AfCFTA’s digital innovation challenge: Empowering Africa’s future trade
By Jessie Taylor The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is not just a landmark agreement designed to enhance intra-African trade; it’s also a significant driver of Africa’s digital transformation. In recent months, AfCFTA has focused on digital innovation, launching its Digital Innovation Challenge for 2025. This initiative aims to harness technology to streamline trade processes, reduce trade barriers, and empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa. The digital transformation of trade in Africa Technology is rapidly reshaping trade across Africa. As of 2024, Africa remains one of the world’s fastest-growing regions in terms of digital adoption. According to the International Telecommunication Union, mobile phone penetration across the continent exceeds 80%, and internet usage continues to rise exponentially. This digital shift is crucial because it is directly impacting trade dynamics. Traditional trade methods that relied on physical meetings, manual paperwork, and slow customs processes are increasingly being replaced by digital tools that simplify operations, increase transparency and lower transaction costs. AfCFTA, which came into effect on 1 January 2021, is the largest free trade area by membership in the world, encompassing 54 of the 55 African Union (AU) member states. The agreement aims to create a single continental market for goods and services, enhance the movement of capital and people, and ultimately increase Africa’s economic output by $3.4-trillion by 2030. However, in order to fully capitalize on the opportunities offered by AfCFTA, Africa needs to address several challenges that have historically hindered intra-African trade—such as bureaucratic delays, inefficient customs procedures, limited access to market information, and high transaction costs. The AfCFTA Digital Innovation Challenge, launched in 2025, is designed to promote the development of digital solutions that address these challenges. The goal is to leverage technology to make cross-border trade easier, faster, and more inclusive for businesses of all sizes, particularly SMEs that are often excluded from global supply chains due to cumbersome trade barriers. The challenge’s potential to reshape intra-African trade cannot be overstated. By encouraging digital innovation, AfCFTA is laying the groundwork for an Africa where trade flows freely across borders, businesses – no matter their size – can compete on equal footing, and the digital divide between countries is bridged. One of the most significant aspects of AfCFTA’s Digital Innovation Challenge is its focus on empowering youth and entrepreneurs. Africa has one of the youngest populations in the world. This demographic presents a vast potential for technological innovation and digital entrepreneurship. However, the lack of access to capital and business support remains a significant barrier to success. Technology’s role in empowering African entrepreneurs Technology’s role in trade is already visible in Africa through several successful initiatives. For instance, the launch of platforms like TradeDepot and Twiga Foods has revolutionized how SMEs access markets, connecting them with suppliers and buyers across countries without intermediaries. In the financial services sector, mobile money platforms such as M-Pesa have transformed how individuals and businesses make payments, driving economic inclusion for millions. Additionally, the use of blockchain technology is gaining momentum in Africa. Blockchain provides a decentralised, transparent ledger for transactions, which reduces fraud and enhances security. For trade, this means that goods can be tracked from the point of origin to delivery, offering a level of accountability and trust that has been lacking in traditional trade systems. By reducing transaction costs and increasing transparency, blockchain has the potential to unlock new opportunities for businesses in Africa to trade with each other and the rest of the world. The digital shift is crucial for unlocking the full potential of the AfCFTA. The initiative will also catalyse broader regional integration. By adopting digital tools, African countries will improve trade efficiency and foster greater economic integration. In the long term, digital trade is expected to stimulate economic growth by opening up new markets for African products, increasing competitiveness, and creating jobs in technology sectors across the continent. Moreover, these digital innovations will help Africa reduce its reliance on external markets and bolster intra-continental trade. According to a 2024 report by the World Bank, intra-Africa trade accounts for just 18% of the continent’s total trade. The AfCFTA aims to increase this number significantly, with projections suggesting that African exports could rise by up to 40% by 2040 as a result of reduced trade barriers and improved market access. By harnessing the power of technology, AfCFTA aims to eliminate barriers, reduce transaction costs, and empower the continent’s entrepreneurs. The results will be felt not just in the economic sphere but also in the form of a more connected, dynamic, and prosperous Africa, where technology plays a central role in shaping the future of trade. As the challenge progresses, Africa stands poised to emerge as a global hub for digital innovation and cross-border trade. Sources: AfCFTA Digital Innovation Challenge 2025 | World Bank | International Telecommunication Union
Africa Tech Week Awards 2025 finalists announced – Celebrate innovation in style!
We are thrilled to announce the outstanding finalists for the Africa Tech Week Awards 2025 – a celebration of excellence, innovation, and impact in South Africa’s dynamic tech ecosystem. Join us for an unforgettable evening as we honour the trailblazers transforming the continent through technology. This glamorous black-tie affair promises sophistication, inspiration, and world-class entertainment, hosted by the brilliant and beloved Alan Committie. Date: Tuesday, 3 June 2025Venue: Century City Conference Centre Secure your seat among Africa’s tech elite and be part of an evening that recognises brilliance and sparks the future. Contact quarnita.jumat@topco.co.za to book your seat. Here are some of our finalists: Organisational awards: Individual Awards: For more information on the awards please contact quarnita.jumat@topco.co.za
Africa’s renewable energy leaders: Looking towards an energy secure continent
By Jessie Taylor As the global community intensifies efforts to combat climate change, several African nations are emerging as frontrunners in renewable energy and green innovation. South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and Kenya are at the forefront, implementing ambitious projects and policies to harness their abundant natural resources and drive sustainable development. Africa’s transition to renewable energy is not just a climate imperative—it’s an economic and social necessity. Over 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa still lack access to electricity, accounting for 77% of the world’s unelectrified population, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Meanwhile, energy demand is expected to grow by 60% by 2040 as Africa’s population rapidly increases and urbanisation accelerates. Renewable energy offers a sustainable solution to meet this demand, especially as the continent holds immense potential: Africa receives 10 TW of solar radiation, has vast wind corridors, and has significant geothermal reserves. Harnessing just a fraction of this could dramatically improve living standards while reducing dependence on expensive fossil fuels and vulnerable energy imports. Additionally, renewable energy could create over nine million jobs by 2030, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), stimulating local economies and reducing poverty. As the global community pivots toward net-zero emissions, Africa has a chance to leapfrog to cleaner technologies, develop green industries, and ensure energy security for future generations. The time to act is now—and renewables are at the heart of that transformation. South Africa: Transitioning from coal to renewables South Africa, traditionally reliant on coal, is undergoing a significant energy transformation. The South African Renewable Energy Master Plan aims to deploy at least 3 GW of new renewable energy capacity annually, increasing to 5 GW by 2030. This initiative is expected to create approximately 25,000 jobs in the renewable energy and storage sectors. The country is also exploring green hydrogen production, leveraging its vast solar and wind resources. International partnerships, such as the European Union’s €4.7 billion investment, support South Africa’s transition to cleaner energy sources. Egypt: Harnessing solar and wind power Egypt is capitalising on its solar and wind potential to become a regional energy hub. The government aims to increase the share of renewables in its electricity mix to 42% by 2030. A notable project is the 1.1 GW Obelisk solar and 100 MW/200 MWh battery storage facility, currently under construction by Scatec ASA. Additionally, Egypt is positioning itself as a leader in green hydrogen production, with plans to produce green hydrogen for under two dollars per kilogram by 2030. The Suez Canal Economic Zone has been identified as a hub for green hydrogen development, attracting investments from companies like Siemens and Scatec. Nigeria: Expanding access through mini-grids Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, faces challenges in electricity access, particularly in rural areas. To address this, the government has initiated projects to develop and operate 400 mini-grids and 50 MetroGrids across the country, aiming to improve electricity access for an estimated 1.5 to 2 million people. The country is also investing in solar home systems and hydropower projects, such as the Zungeru Hydropower Plant, to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Support from international organisations, including a planned $1 billion investment by the African Development Bank, is bolstering Nigeria’s renewable energy initiatives. Morocco: Advancing solar and green hydrogen projects Morocco has set an ambitious target to have renewables constitute 52% of its installed electricity capacity by 2030. The country is investing heavily in solar energy, with projects like the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, one of the world’s largest concentrated solar power plants. In addition to solar, Morocco is focusing on green hydrogen, approving projects worth $32.5 billion. Partnerships with companies like TotalEnergies and Engie aim to produce ammonia from green hydrogen, positioning Morocco as a key player in the global green hydrogen market. Kenya: Leading in geothermal and off-grid solutions Kenya is a leader in geothermal energy, with facilities like the Olkaria I geothermal power plant contributing significantly to the national grid. The country aims to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030, focusing on geothermal, wind, and solar power. Kenya is investing in off-grid solar solutions to address electricity access in remote areas. Initiatives like the Intersolar Summit Africa in Nairobi highlight the country’s commitment to advancing photovoltaic technologies and energy storage solutions. The efforts of South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and Kenya underscore Africa’s potential to lead in renewable energy and green innovation. By leveraging their natural resources and implementing forward-thinking policies, these countries are addressing their energy needs and contributing to global sustainability goals. Sources: Africa Trade News | AP News | Reuters | IOL | AGBI | Africa Exponent | IEA | IRENA