AfriLabs, the largest Pan-African network of technology and innovation hubs has joined the Smart Africa Alliance in a partnership aimed at guiding and advancing the basic framework to develop the startup ecosystems across the continent. As an international non-profit organisation with the Alliance, AfriLabs will closely support the Smart Africa startup and innovation ecosystem initiatives.
ICTs, especially startups, can be a considerable lever of action for African States as they can create wealth and jobs; and improve the efficiency and transparency of the administration, as well as access to basic social services. As part of its mission to accelerate sustainable socio-economic development on the continent, the Smart Africa Alliance has pledged to develop a master plan for an ecosystem of startups and innovation in Africa in order to support the efforts to update existing policy frameworks in many countries in the continent. This is also part of its flagship projects. Together with AfriLabs, the Smart Africa Alliance aims to guide and develop the basic framework to develop startup ecosystems across the continent.
“Innovation and startup ecosystems form a key component of our vision to build a single digital market in Africa. Therefore, welcoming AfriLabs to the alliance is naturally aligned with our objectives and I have no doubt, the Pan-African network for innovation hubs will bring their expertise and experience to sustain our ambition” emphasized Mr. Lacina Koné, CEO/Director General, Smart Africa Secretariat.”
“AfriLabs remains committed to supporting the African innovation ecosystem and we are always happy to collaborate with organisations whose vision aligns with ours. Our community is at the heart of all we do. Thus, AfriLabs will continue to offer support, not only to startups – through their hubs which are our members – but also to other stakeholders of the ecosystem such as the Smart Africa Alliance”, said Anna Ekeledo, AfriLabs Executive Director.