Technology leaders are calling on African countries to strengthen their cooperation in the digital world to avoid falling behind in global technological advancements—especially in Artificial Intelligence (AI).
This message was echoed by many participants attending the 2025 Africa Tech Festival in Cape Town, South Africa. The annual event brings together tech innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, and government officials from across the continent to explore solutions that can accelerate Africa’s digital growth.
The main theme dominating discussions this year was collaboration. Speakers highlighted that African countries must work together to develop homegrown AI technologies that address challenges unique to the continent—such as healthcare gaps, job creation, digital security, and education access.
Tech experts said that without stronger partnerships, Africa risks becoming dependent on foreign technologies, making it more difficult to compete globally.
South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, emphasized responsible development of AI. He urged African governments to use AI in ways that strengthen democracy, improve public services, and ensure digital fairness, rather than allowing the technology to spread misinformation or threaten citizens’ rights.
The Africa Tech Festival has become one of the continent’s biggest technology gatherings, offering a space where innovators showcase new digital tools, startups seek investment, and policymakers discuss how to expand Africa’s digital economy.
Organizers say the discussions and partnerships formed at this year’s event could help shape Africa’s technological future, especially in the fast-growing AI sector.
