Africa, a continent rich in potential, is undergoing a digital transformation reshaping its trajectory. At the nexus of technology and development lies a powerful opportunity: to leverage innovation as a catalyst for economic growth, social progress, and improved quality of life. This is the very essence of Tech for Good.
This was part of the submissions during the Titans of Tech Conference and Expo 2024, themed: Tech for Good. The conference explored the burgeoning landscape of tech-driven solutions, examining how advancements in mobile technology, artificial intelligence, and data science are harnessed to address Africa’s unique challenges and unlock its vast potential.
The convener, Dr Don Pedro Aganbi, hosted a panel of tech industry experts, including Pastor Lekan Balogun, CEO, NetAccess Systems; Engineer Abisoye-Coker Odusote, DG, Nigerian Identity Management Commission (NIMC), and Dr. Martin Ikpehai, Vice President, Information Security Society of Africa.
Engineer Abisoye-Coker Odusote, in her keynote speech, cited the commission’s vision to harness digital technology for the good and development of Nigeria. “NIMC has forged strategic partnerships with government agencies and private stakeholders to improve the Nigerian database of citizens. A robust, secure, identity management system improves financial inclusion and enhances population data validation, which is the bedrock upon which effective governance is built.”
She explained that identifying population density and demography helps in the equitable distribution of resources, as it aids in economic forecasting, policy formulation, and investment planning.
According to Odusote, “NIMC has created initiatives, such as the National Identification Number (NIN) integration, which has garnered widespread adoption.” It is the cornerstone of the commission’s efforts, as the NIN acts as a gateway to numerous opportunities, granting technology access to the underserved and marginalised in the nation,” she added. The NIMC DG was ably represented by Dr Alvan Ikoku, Technical Adviser, NIMC.
Speaking on economic growth, Pastor Lekan Balogun, CEO, NetAccess stressed the positive impact technology could have on Africa’s economy if it is massively adopted.
He stated that technology is poised to revolutionise the economy. By investing in digital infrastructure and platforms, countries can foster e-commerce, remote work, and knowledge sharing. Financial technology can expand access to banking services, stimulating economic activity. In agriculture, technology can optimize farming practices, boosting food production and security.
He stated that renewable energy can be dispersed to individuals, especially in rural areas and villages, where electricity is occasionally non-existent. “Solar panels and inverters are increasing in demand, because technology empowers entrepreneurship, creating jobs and driving innovation.
In the first panel session, tagged ‘Tech for Good’, Jide Awe, CEO, Jidaw Systems, noted that technology can be used for good in many ways, including healthcare, manufacturing and agriculture.
Jide spoke on precision engineering in agriculture, and how it can enhance subsistence farming. He said precision engineering in agriculture is essentially the application of technology to farming to optimise resource use and increase productivity.
On her part, Tinuade Oguntuyi, Head, Core Networks ICSL, stated that technology has a good and bad side, but it all depends on the users. She cited instances where people have used technology to improve cities, creating smart cities and utilizing technology to the detriment of individuals and the environment.
The second-panel session (AI: Hype and Reality) delved into the complex world of Artificial Intelligence, exploring the chasm between inflated expectations and tangible applications. Panelists dissected the technology, demystifying its intricacies for the audience. There was a consensus that AI is a potent tool, capable of revolutionizing industries and societies. Yet, it was cautioned against the tendency to overhype its capabilities.
The discussion underscored the importance of grounding AI in real-world problems. The human element was never far from the conversation, as panellists stressed the necessity of AI being a complement, rather than a replacement, for human ingenuity.
Amos Emmanuel, Founder and President Innovationbed Africa, Tobi Ayeni (Ms Techy) leading audio-visual Content Creator & Social Media Influencer, Seyi Akindeinde – Founder, Hyperspace Technologies, Chigozie Anyasor – CEO, Uridium World Ltd and Olufemi Kalejaiye, Co-Founder, Opolo Global where on this panel.
The final panel which underscored the critical importance of cybersecurity in Nigeria’s digital landscape had the theme: Imperatives for Securing Nigeria’s Digital Space. Panelists emphasized the growing threat posed by cyberattacks to individuals and businesses, highlighting the need for robust cybersecurity infrastructure to protect sensitive data.
The speakers included Dr Martin Ikpehai – Vice President, Information Security Society of Africa; Olusegun Johnson, Zoracom and Deepak Mehta – CEO, Tecpoint Global Solution Limited.
Key takeaways from the conference include the imperative of investing in digital infrastructure, harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence responsibly, and fostering a conducive environment for technological innovation. By embracing technology as a catalyst for change, Africa can leapfrog challenges and achieve its full potential.
The successful implementation of initiatives like the National Identification Number, coupled with advancements in precision agriculture and the ethical application of artificial intelligence, demonstrates the tangible impact of tech for good. As the continent continues its digital journey, collaboration between government, the private sector, and civil society will be essential to maximize the benefits of technology for all.
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