13:50 - 14:50
AI Investment in Africa: Where Opportunity Meets Challenge
OTHER SESSIONS
SHORT DESCRIPTION
This panel explores the realities of investing in artificial intelligence in Africa: where the real opportunities lie, what barriers need to be addressed, and how different stakeholders (investors, governments, startups, institutions) can better collaborate to build a sustainable ecosystem.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
As AI becomes a key driver of transformation on the African continent, funding remains a critical success factor. This panel brings together investors, AI startup founders, fund representatives, and institutional stakeholders for a frank and insightful discussion on what it means to "invest in AI" in Africa today.
Topics covered:
- Where are the opportunities? Focus on strategic sectors: health, agriculture, climate, inclusive finance, logistics, etc.
- What types of financing are available? Venture capital, public financing, international partnerships, impact financing.
- Major challenges: lack of local data, limited infrastructure, inadequate regulations, shortage of AI talent.
- How to build an enabling environment? The role of hubs, public policies, education, and collaboration between states and private actors.
- Field experiences: feedback from founders or investors who have already invested in African AI projects.
The discussions will highlight both successes and lessons to be learned from failures, in order to inform future decision-makers and investors.
BENEFITS OF ATTENDING:
- Understand the key ethical concerns surrounding AI in Africa.
- Learn about regulatory frameworks and compliance in AI governance.
- Discover how AI is impacting businesses and driving industry transformation.
- Gain insights into best practices for responsible AI development.