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2022: Connecting Africa’s ecosystem enablers to strengthen its innovation economy
“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”.
“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”
MR. LACINA KONÉ CEO/Director General, Smart Africa Secretariat.
ANNA EKELEDO AfriLabs Executive Director.
AfriLabs and Make-IT in Africa foster intra-Africa collaboration, connectivity and innovation at the 2022 AfriLabs Annual Gathering
AfriLabs and Make-IT in Africa collaborated to support national innovation networks across Africa at the 2022 AAG. AfriLabs and Make-IT in Africa have worked together successfully since 2019 to support local partners in laying solid foundations for robust and resilient innovation ecosystems. In the last decade, AfriLabs has provided a platform for dialogue amongst all stakeholders in the African innovation and technology ecosystem and beyond the continent. Among the ways in which this has been implemented are interventions to empower innovation hubs and support entrepreneurs, as well as collaborative efforts with pan-African institutions and governments in developing innovative policies, capacity-building programs, innovative financing models for entrepreneurs, and research and development.
“Only collective action and joint investment can challenge the gaps, barriers and protectionism that stand in the way of African innovation. Make-IT in Africa is delighted to collaborate with partners like AfriLabs who believe in the power and work towards truly interconnected pan- African innovation ecosystems. With our support to this year’s Gathering, we wish to underline the central role of women in strengthening environments where innovation can thrive – not only, but especially when it comes to leadership – and advocate for intra-Africa collaboration and connectivity that taps into the female powerhouse.”
MATTHIAS REHFELD Head of program, Make-IT in Africa
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