ATF 2024: Tech innovators honored, record attendance

Africa Tech Festival 2024 concluded last week in Cape Town, South Africa, drawing a record-breaking crowd and the continent's tech innovators were highlighted via the Africa Tech Festival Awards.

The event signaled a surge in the African tech ecosystem and brought together influential founders, business leaders, policymakers, investors and startups.

Featuring over 15,000 attendees, the South African Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, emphasized a shared vision of a digitally connected, inclusive, and prosperous Africa that leverages technology to drive economic and social progress.

"While technology holds enormous promise, it is essential that we harness this potential in a way that can benefit all the people on the continent and the rest of the world. South Africa is honored to play its role on this journey, both as a leader and a partner to our fellow African countries," Malatsi added.

 Malatsi reaffirmed South Africa's commitment to bridging the digital divide through policy, partnerships, and investments in universal connectivity and affordability.

"Africa Tech Festival 2024 exceeded our expectation. We're proud of the progress made in opening dialogue and sharing insights to advance Africa's digital transformation journey," remarked James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival.

Related:ATF 2024: Tech companies forge connectivity deals

The event featured content stacks highlighting the continent's strides towards a digitally connected Africa, including the AI Summit Cape Town, AfricaIgnite, AfricaCom and AfricaTech.

"2024 is a standout year for Africa Tech Festival, being the largest event in almost three decades. We had more attendees and exhibitors, more features, more content, and more opportunities to position Africa as a tech powerhouse," Williams added.

Tech innovators awarded

One of the highlights of last week was the 2024 Africa Tech Festival Awards, which celebrated remarkable technological innovations and expertise from across the continent.

Held at the Bay Hotel, the awards celebrated exceptional technological advancements and expertise across the continent.

The award ceremony honored organizations, individuals and initiatives that demonstrated dedication to advancing Africa's technological landscape.

CXO of the Year, Orange Cameroon's CEO Patrick Benon, and Informa’s James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival. (Source: Africa Tech Festival)

2024 Africa Tech Festival Award Winners: