Akira Dheena’s Post

Different scenarios appeal to different people, but having them all presented shows a more complete picture of how our future might unfold. It stretches the mental model in the back of people’s minds. We use the future because we come back to the present because in turbulent times it matters and it is useful for challenging our assumptions. All of this gives us greater resilience and adaptability. - Shirin Elahi Open African Innovation Research (Open AIR) #Development #AfricaInnovates #SustainableDevelopment #Africa #InclusiveDevelopment

🌍 Just finished watching Sharon Telewa's TED Talk/Webinar, and I'm truly inspired by the depth of insight she brings to the table. Sharon's career in technology for development, particularly in her native Kenya, sheds light on a narrative often overlooked in mainstream discourse. Her transition to Germany unveiled a startling reality: many were oblivious to the technology revolution sweeping across the African continent. Sharon's talk is a powerful call to challenge these stereotypes head-on. Through compelling examples drawn from her own experiences, she vividly illustrates how technology solutions are not just advancing, but profoundly transforming lives across Africa. What struck me most is Sharon's unwavering belief in the potential of young Africans to shape the continent's future. She doesn't just highlight the problems but offers tangible ideas on how we can support and empower these future leaders. This talk is a testament to the boundless ingenuity and resilience found within Africa's innovation ecosystem. It's a reminder that progress knows no bounds and that the narrative of Africa is one of promise and possibility. Let's amplify Sharon's message, challenge outdated perceptions, and rally behind the visionaries driving change on the continent. This isn't just about technology; it's about fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and brighter future for all. Join the conversation and be part of the movement for positive change. #TechForAfrica #Innovation #Empowerment #InspiringTalks 🚀🌍

Post 2: According to esteemed Dr Peter Diamindis, the right #MINDSET is the key to transforming the way we do things. What is your mindset? Are you shifting it? Are you keeping up with where the world is going? #OldMutual21 #SingularityU #SingularityUSouthAfrica #ExponentialAfrica #FutureProofAfrica #TechForGood #Innovation #ExponentialTech #FourthIndustrialRevolution Old Mutual South Africa

Most people are shocked when they see the real size of Africa because the most commonly used map of the world, the Mercator projection, features a significantly distorted size of countries and continents. Perspective is a powerful lens through which we interpret the world. Embracing diverse viewpoints fosters growth, innovation, and empathy. #BusinessPerspective #DiversityInBusiness #Innovation #StrategicThinking #LeadershipInsights #Adaptability #CompetitiveEdge

Africa -U.S. Business Summit in Dallas-Texas: Monday, May 6, 2024 - Thursday, May 9, 2024  The Africa -U.S. Business Summit is a prestigious gathering that brings together African and U.S. senior government officials, private sector executives, international investors, entrepreneurs, and multilateral stakeholders from both sides of the Atlantic. This year's event promises to be the most dynamic and engaging yet, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing. Africa stands at a crossroads. The continent brims with immense potential: innovative tech sectors, a dynamic young population, and rising global interest in its markets. Yet, pressing challenges threaten to derail progress: climate change devastates communities, unsustainable debt limits growth, and lack of opportunities for youth creates social instability. Africa's steadily growing economic and political relevance in the international community continues to increase. This is also evident at multilateral conferences. In the past year, African players have appeared on the world stage more frequently, more cohesively and more confidently than ever before. The key question: How can African nations harness their strengths, navigate global volatility, address the climate crisis, and unlock the power of their youth to drive sustainable, inclusive growth? #Africa #USA #Summit2024 #BusinessCorporation #Partnership #WinWin

🌍 Reflecting on an Incredible Experience at the African Startup Conference in Algiers 🇩🇿 And what an experience ! My first business trip to my native country … It sounds like a dream coming true. It was such an honour to give a keynote about 'Empowering Africa's healthcare through AI and innovation', participating in two panels, and meeting incredible people from the Algerian and African diaspora at the African Startup Conference. Returning to my homeland to contribute to such a significant event is a milestone I will always cherish. It was heartwarming to see so many passionate individuals, all committed to driving innovation and fostering sustainable growth in Africa. The conference brought together ministers from 17 African countries and influential actors across various sectors. We engaged in rich discussions on enhancing public-private collaboration, accelerating cross-border cooperation, and establishing a resilient startup and SME ecosystem. Some of the Key priorities highlighted towards the closure of the event included: 👉 Investing in capacity-building initiatives 👉 Fostering partnerships between universities, research institutions, and venture firms 👉 Supporting underrepresented groups through tailored programs 👉 Implementing fiscal reforms to attract foreign investments One of the most inspiring moments was the unveiling of Algeria’s National AI Strategy led by Merouane Debbah , a visionary plan to drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress. It was a privilege to discuss the development of the Algerian AI ecosystem and the strategic investments needed to unlock its immense potential. I want to thank the ministers especially the Minister of Knowledge Economy, Startups and Micro-enterprises, Noureddine OUADAH and the General Secretary ARHAB Nacima ; Mouloud Khelif and Farid Arab for your countless efforts, and my fellow delegates for their forward-thinking leadership and unwavering belief in a future fuelled by innovation. Together, we can build a sustainable healthcare system that not only meets the needs of today but also anticipates and adapts to the needs of tomorrow. To my fellow members : let's continue to leverage our global experiences and expertise to support Algeria’s and Africa's overall ongoing efforts in innovation and growth and build more bridges. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey, and I am eager to see what we can achieve together. Let’s keep the momentum going! 👉 And because there have been too many highlights, I will be sharing some more in the next posts so stay tuned ! #AfricanStartupConference #DigitalHealth #AI #Innovation #Healthcare #Algeria #Technology #WomenInTech #DiasporaEngagement

𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆: 𝗡𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝘆𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗰𝘀 - 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗿𝘆 (𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗜𝗜𝗜) The recent seminar hosted by the Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) brought to light an essential discussion on Africa's evolving position on the world stage. As Dr. Jaret C. Riddick, eloquently highlighted, the intensified engagement of global powers such as the U.S., #Russia, and #China in Africa underscores the continent's escalating strategic importance. This increased attention from major global actors is not without reason. Africa's rich #resources, burgeoning population, and #untapped market potential make it a focal point for shaping the future of global power dynamics. The continent's role is increasingly seen not just in terms of resource extraction but as a key #player in forming the next era of technological advancement and strategic partnerships. This pivot marks a significant shift. Africa is moving from being a mere #spectator in global power plays to a central figure capable of #influencing the direction of international politics, economics, and technology. The implications of this for global strategy are profound. It heralds a new chapter where Africa's #choices,#alliances, and #innovations could redefine the contours of global power. The strategic importance of Africa also brings to the fore the need for equitable and sustainable #partnerships that respect the continent's sovereignty and developmental aspirations. The collaboration must be based on mutual #respect and shared #benefits, focusing on building capacities in technology, infrastructure, and education. As Africa positions itself more assertively on the global stage, the opportunity for #transformative growth and #development presents itself. However, this requires a nuanced understanding of the continent's diversity, potential, and strategic aspirations. For entities engaging with Africa, whether countries, corporations, or institutions, the approach must be one of partnership, collaboration, and shared vision. The future is a canvas on which Africa's role is becoming increasingly significant. Let's engage in this evolving #dialogue with the respect, enthusiasm, and commitment it deserves. Africa's time is now, and its impact on the global order will be one of the defining #narratives of our era. #Africa #GlobalStrategy #InternationalRelations #TechnologicalAdvancement #StrategicPartnerships

💡 Monday Motivation: Innovating for Africa’s Future 🌍 As we start the week, let's remember that innovation is the driving force behind progress. Whether in technology, business, or everyday challenges, new ideas challenge the norm and pave the way for growth. In Africa, Market-Creating Innovation is changing the landscape. Every new product, service, or technology that reaches underserved communities transforms lives and creates opportunities to grow. 🔑 This week, reflect on: - How can you innovate in your role or industry? - What new markets or opportunities can you help create? - How can you contribute to Africa’s journey towards prosperity? Remember, innovation is the key to a brighter, more inclusive future. Let’s embrace forward-thinking, bold moves, and continuous growth this week. The future belongs to those who create it! #MondayMotivation #InnovationForAfrica #MarketCreatingInnovation #TechForGood #AfricaRising #GrowthMindset

Excited to be in Cape Town for the AfricArena Grand Summit, Africa's premier hybrid tech innovation event! This eighth edition of the Africa Tour Summit brings together startups, investors, and ecosystem leaders to celebrate the remarkable progress of African tech and innovation. I will be joining a distinguished panel discussion on "Decarbonizing the Economy: Pathways to a Sustainable Future." We'll be exploring some critical topics, including: 1️⃣ Aligning global decarbonization trends with Africa’s unique needs. 2️⃣ Funding pathways for decarbonization, from impact investors to international climate funds. 3️⃣ How circular economy principles—reducing waste, recycling, and resource efficiency—can shape a more sustainable future. This event is more than a summit—it's a movement showcasing Africa's innovative talent and commitment to solving global challenges. I look forward to learning, sharing insights, and championing solutions that can drive sustainable transformation across the continent. Team KCIC is ready to connect and collaborate to accelerate Africa’s journey to a greener, more prosperous future. Let's link up! #AfricArena2024 #AfricanInnovation #Decarbonization #Sustainability #CircularEconomy #TechForGood #AfricaRising

Embracing Africa's Role in Technology Advancement It is valid that innovation knows no boundaries, and this is a noble call to everyone to recognize Africa's pivotal role in shaping the technology landscape globally. From its vibrant communities to its rich tapestry of talent, Africa has been a wellspring of inspiration for countless breakthroughs worldwide. Yet, despite the brilliance of many African young innovators, there's a gap between their achievements abroad and the opportunities available at home. Too often, our talented men and women find themselves constrained by barriers that hinder the implementation of their groundbreaking ideas on African soil. But here's the truth, In Africa, we are not just a consumer of technology; we are originator and creator. We are the architects of innovation, and it's high time we take ownership of our technological prowess. Good leadership is key to unlocking the full potential of Africa's tech talent. By fostering an environment that nurtures creativity, fosters collaboration, and embraces diversity, we can empower the next generation of African innovators to thrive. Let's celebrate our African roots in technology and champion a future where our continent leads the way in innovation. Starting small but doing it exceptionally well can serve as a launching pad for the younger generation. Together, we can build a brighter tomorrow, driven by the ingenuity and determination of Africa's finest minds. #AfricaTech #Innovation #Leadership #Youth #Entrepreneurship #Technology Image: Computer Engineering students from FUTA collaborating on refining the power section of their robotic design.