Nape to grace tech-innovative summit

DAR ES SALAAM: STAKEHOLDERS from the public and private institutions in the technology industry will convene to discuss the sector’s contribution to addressing various challenges.

This gathering, dubbed the ‘Future Ready Summit’ will be graced by the Minister for Information, Communications and Information Technology, Nape Nnauye and is scheduled for Thursday and Friday in Dar es Salaam.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Funguo Tanzania Project Manager, Mr Joseph Manirakiza said they are participating in the meeting to further their efforts in supporting the young people’s innovative ventures so that they can scale up and create employment for others.

“We will have startups exhibiting at the meeting, but we will also participate in policy discussions on how we can have better policies to stimulate homegrown innovations,” Mr Manirakiza said.

The forum will bring together both public and private sectors to discuss diverse issues affecting the country’s technology sector, including effective policies, and the future of digital innovation in business, services and products, aiming to foster societal and economic development.

The key partners who promote the use of digital innovations in products and services in the country include the European Union (EU), the UK Aid, the Funguo Programme under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Huawei, Vodacom Tanzania, Stanbic Bank, MassChallenge from the United States, Adapt It from South Africa, and Inventions Technologies.

Key topics for discussion during the conference include deliberate efforts to formulate effective and modern policies that stimulate innovation in the country.

Additionally, he said the forum is crucial for the overall future growth of technology and the improvement of a conducive creative environment for businesses and startups in the country.

The conference will also explore the societal impacts of using imported technological products and services, including social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok.

The discussion will thoroughly explore the opportunities available in the country for domestic and foreign investors, focusing on the factors that led many to prefer foreign products and services compared to local innovators.

As a nation, he said further, continued efforts are needed to support various organisations and sectors investing in existing and emerging technologies to efficiently and conveniently serve the population.

The expectations of this conference, upon its conclusion, are to generate sustainable ideas and policies that will contribute to the growth of digital innovation, sparking development in various social and economic sectors in Africa.

The Huawei Tanzania Account Director, Mr Russel Zhao, said they have decided to participate in the meeting because it aligns with their vision of connecting everyone with digital services from home, work, and different institutions.

“This aligns with the goals of this event to connect young people and prepare them for the future digital world,” Mr Zhao said. Apart from interaction with other participants, Mr Zhao also said they expect to launch collaborations with different stakeholders. “We welcome people to come and see several innovative products that will bring solutions to our communities,” he said.

The conference targets innovators and young entrepreneurs seeking platforms to showcase their innovations and engage with potential investors. It also serves as a suitable event for major players in the technology industry seeking innovations and eager to connect with their peers.

Additionally, it is an ideal occasion for businesses and various stakeholders interested in investing, utilising technology in their operations, and contributing to the progress of these initiatives.

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