By Allan Kai
The tech ecosystem of Nairobi, often referred to as Africa's Silicon Savannah, is gearing up for the AfricArena Nairobi Summit 2024, set to take place from 3rd to 4th September. The summit is part of the Africa Climate Tech Week and is expected to be a significant event for over 20 of Africa's leading tech startups in the climate tech and green economy sectors.
This year's summit, hosted at Shamba Events in Nairobi, promises to be a key driver in Kenya's continued dominance in raising startup capital. In 2023, Kenya secured an impressive 94% of all funding raised in East Africa, with startups attracting nearly $800 million in investments. This trend has continued into 2024, with Kenyan startups raising over $200 million in the first half of the year alone, accounting for 32% of all startup funding across Africa.
Christophe Viarnaud, CEO and founder of AfricArena, expressed his excitement in a press statement about the return of the summit to Nairobi, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in strengthening Africa's tech, innovation, and investment ecosystem. "We believe in the power of collaboration to ensure optimum success in building and strengthening Africa’s tech, innovation, and investment ecosystem," said Viarnaud.
Blue Radio Kenya will be the official media partner for the event, with company CEO Gilbert Were expressing his pleasure in being asscociated with the event.
"As beneficiaries of technological initiatives and support from investors and stakeholders, we recognize the critical role of technology in driving development across the African continent. We understand the challenges faced by young entrepreneurs, especially in terms of funding and access to capital, and are committed to helping them share their stories with the world," Were said.
The summit will feature pitches from innovative startups such as Aquarech, Gene Plus Global, RHEA Soil Health, and iShamba Limited, among others. These companies, along with seven Korean startups expanding into Africa, will present their solutions to a gathering of investors and stakeholders eager to support Africa's next wave of tech innovation.
The event will also showcase insights from over 30 prominent figures in Africa's tech scene. Notable keynote speakers include Joshua Romisher, CEO and Head of Portfolio at Holocene, and Joshua Murima, Head of Engagement and Investor Relations at Briter Bridges. The summit will cover a range of topics through various panels, including the impact of AI and carbon credits on sustainability, green finance, and the integration of climate-resilient crops with smart technology.
Tonee Ndungu, CEO of Kytabu, will serve as the Master of Ceremonies, guiding attendees through discussions on East Africa's successful capital-raising efforts.
The AfricArena Nairobi Summit 2024 is poised to accelerate the growth of participating startups and further solidify Kenya's position as a leader in Africa's tech landscape.
