In this era of technology, it is exciting to see some of Africa’s sharpest minds go to work in search of life-saving solutions to myriads of problems facing the continent.
In recent years, there have been local solutions to complex challenges in healthcare, finance and energy that could be relevant globally.
Africa is rising and the proof is the growing number of creative digital developers and entrepreneurs who have placed technology and innovation at the forefront.
Iddris Sandu
The 21-year-old tech guru has accomplished many incredible feats, including being responsible for algorithms that have made Uber, Instagram and Snapchat what they are today. From encouraging the study of STEM subjects in schools and at higher levels, Sandu, in 2017, collaborated with rapper Nipsey Hussle to create the Marathon Clothing Store, a smart store that offers exclusive music and other content to customers who have downloaded an app. The award-winning software engineer considers himself a “cultural architect” who aims to “level the playing field” between Silicon Valley and young communities of colour.
Silas Adekunle
The 26-year-old Nigerian, credited for building the world’s first gaming robot, recently became the highest paid in the field of Robotic engineering.
Silas Adekunle achieved this feat after signing a new deal with the world’s reputable software manufacturers, Apple Inc. Adekunle is currently the founder and CEO of Reach Robotics, a company developing the world’s first gaming robots.
Akaliza Keza Ntwari
The tech entrepreneur is a founding member of Girls in ICT Rwanda – a group of female ICT entrepreneurs and professionals. She has also founded two companies offering multimedia design and technology services. Akaliza has also volunteered her time with several organisations including kLab and Global Shapers.