Key African policy and decision-makers rally to shape the continent’s digital future at the Connected Africa Summit 2024

Angela Mutua, Territory Sales Manager at Hewlett Packard Enterprise operated by Selectium, shares insights from her experience at the Summit in Nairobi.

May 21, 2024

a man in a suit and tie is seen speaking from a dais in front of a presentation screen. — H.E. President of Kenya, William Samoei Ruto, PhD, speaking at the Connected Africa Summit 2024: “Closing the digital divide is a priority in terms of enhancing connectivity, expanding the contribution of the ICT sector to Africa's GDP and driving overall GDP growth which will be attained through determined interventions to significantly increase access to broadband services." Photo credit: Connected Africa. Reproduced with permission.

I’m reflecting on an extraordinary week at the transformative Connected Africa Summit 2024, held at Uhuru Gardens from April 21 to 25, 2024. The summit drew delegates from across the globe to explore investment opportunities in digital infrastructure and job creation, heralding a new era of digital economic landscape for Africa.

Predominantly sponsored by the private sector, with Hewlett Packard Enterprise operated by Selectium Kenya as one of the sponsors, the summit also showcased robust collaboration between government and businesses in technology.

At the forefront of the summit were key African policy and decision-makers, rallying to shape the continent’s digital future. The Kenyan government played a pivotal role, with high-level involvement indicating strong support, from His Excellency President William Ruto’s opening address to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s closing remarks.

a digital graphic titled the Nairobi Declaration — The Nairobi Declaration was signed at the Summit by key Heads of State and ICT Ministers. Photo credit: Connected Africa

The summit witnessed a remarkable turnout, with delegates from 49 countries, including government ministers, diplomats, and high-ranking officials. According to the organisers, at least 10,000 delegates were expected at the major event. Notable participants included CEOs of leading tech firms and key stakeholders in the digital and technological sectors, creating a richly diverse and influential gathering. Ernest Sales, President of Local Office and Co-President Retail at Midis Group, was prominent among the leaders present.

Collaborations among various government agencies ensured alignment with national and regional digital transformation goals. 14 Government Ministers from different African countries signed the ‘Nairobi Declaration’ on Fostering a Connected and Empowered Africa. The agreement was inked at the Ministerial Exclusive Round Table Forum lead by Eluid Owalo, the Cabinet Secretary responsible for ICT and the Digital Economy.

eight people seen in a smiling group photograph. — Ernest Sales met with the team from Konza Technopolis Development Authority at Connected Africa and was joined by colleagues from HPE operated by Selectium. Photo credit: Hewlett Packard Enterprise operated by Selectium

Key themes of the summit included digital transformation for economic growth, leveraging technology for governance and public service delivery, and creating supportive ecosystems for startups. For Kenya, hosting the summit brought substantial benefits, enhancing its reputation as a technology leader, attracting foreign investments, and fostering partnerships. The summit’s resolutions emphasized investment in digital infrastructure, expansion of digital literacy initiatives, and policy reforms to support innovation and economic inclusion.

For me, the Connected Africa Summit 2024 was a landmark event that showcased Africa’s strides in digital innovation and economic growth. As someone deeply invested in Africa’s future, I was inspired by the strong governmental support, international participation, and private sector collaboration evident throughout the summit.

Four people are seen at a table at a grand reception — Ernest Sales, President of Local Office and Co-President Retail at Midis Group (left) at the Summit reception. Photo credit: Hewlett Packard Enterprise operated by Selectium

Key highlights included discussions on digital infrastructure investment, youth empowerment, and partnerships with global tech firms. The event not only bolstered Kenya’s reputation as a tech leader but also laid the groundwork for a more connected and prosperous Africa. I’m excited about the future prospects for Africa’s digital transformation and eager to see how initiatives from the summit will shape the continent’s trajectory.

Looking ahead, the future of the Connected Africa Summit is promising. As the first continental event of its kind, it is poised to become one of the most influential tech gatherings on the continent, driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and shaping Africa’s digital destiny.

two people are seen in an informal portrait photograph, both wearing business suits — Ernest Sales and Angela Mutua. Photo credit: Angela Mutua

About Angela Mutua

With over 15 years of experience in my career, including seven years at Hewlett Packard Enterprise operated by Selectium, I have honed my skills as a Territory Sales Manager in the public sector space. Originally from Nairobi, Kenya, I earned my Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration from the United States International University.