Here Are the People Behind Africa’s Big Tech Startup Events

In the vast and dynamic landscape of Africa’s tech scene, a diverse group of visionaries is working tirelessly to drive innovation and growth. The continent’s tech ecosystem is a hotbed of activity, with startups pushing the boundaries of what’s possible despite facing significant challenges.

these include complex regulatory environments and fluctuating investment flows. Yet, Africa’s tech startups have attracted nearly $5 billion in investment over recent years, leading to a remarkable surge in technological advancements and job creation. 

The continent’s tech sector now boasts a valuation of over $480 billion, an impressive leap compared to Europe’s growth. As the continent’s tech ecosystem continues to evolve, several key figures are crucial in shaping its future.

They organize and lead major tech events that not only highlight Africa’s talent but also address the critical issues facing the industry. These events serve as platforms for networking, discussing policy reforms, and connecting startups with investors and policymakers. 

Tomi Davies – Africa Early Stage Investor Summit (AESIS)

As a co-founder and President of the African Business Angel Network (ABAN), Tomi Davies is a prominent figure in early-stage investment across Africa. His work with AESIS, held in Cape Town, brings together investors, venture capitalists, and high-potential startups. This summit plays a vital role in enhancing the early-stage investment ecosystem, promoting collaboration, and creating funding opportunities for startups. Davies’s efforts have been crucial in nurturing the next generation of African tech entrepreneurs.

Ehi Braimah – IoT West Africa

Ehi Braimah, CEO of the Africa Infrastructure Event Centre (AIEC), is a driving force in advancing the Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure in West Africa. His leadership at IoT West Africa has helped connect tech innovators, investors, and policymakers, fostering discussions around smart cities and IoT solutions. Braimah’s work is central to the development and expansion of IoT in the region, pushing the boundaries of connectivity and smart technology.

Maurice Lévy – Viva Technology (VivaTech) Africa

Maurice Lévy, Chairman of Publicis Groupe, stands as a towering figure in the global tech and advertising landscape. His role in transforming VivaTech into one of the world’s largest tech events is nothing short of groundbreaking. Under Lévy’s leadership, VivaTech has become a crucial platform for African startups, providing them with a stage to showcase their innovations to a global audience.

Since its inception in 2016, VivaTech Africa has facilitated connections between African entrepreneurs and international investors, fostering global partnerships and boosting the continent’s tech profile.

Dr. Nick Bradshaw – AI Expo Africa

Dr. Nick Bradshaw, founder of the AI Media Group, has been a pivotal figure in the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in Africa. AI Expo Africa, the continent’s largest AI and machine learning event, brings together thought leaders, developers, and investors to discuss and promote AI technologies. Bradshaw’s expertise and dedication have been instrumental in advancing AI adoption across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and education.

Trixie LohMirmand – GITEX Africa

Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of Events Management at Dubai World Trade Centre, has been instrumental in expanding GITEX into Africa. With nearly 30 years of experience in the global events industry, LohMirmand’s leadership in organizing GITEX Africa has significantly impacted the continent’s tech scene. The event, held in Marrakech in 2023, was a testament to her vision, bringing together 1,800 startups and 1,000 investors with a combined asset worth $1 trillion. GITEX Africa showcases the continent’s technological advancements and accelerates digital transformation across the region.

Olumide Olayinka – Lagos Startup Week

Olumide Olayinka, co-founder of Lagos Startup Week, plays a significant role in celebrating and supporting Lagos’s startup ecosystem. The week-long event, which began in 2017, brings together about 5,000 of Africa’s top founders and investors.

Through networking opportunities, workshops, panels, pitch competitions, and keynote speeches, Lagos Startup Week fosters collaboration and growth within the entrepreneurial community, thanks to Olayinka’s expertise in product management and startup ecosystems.

Tom Jackson – Disrupt Africa/Africa Startup Summit

Tom Jackson, co-founder of Disrupt Africa, is a prominent advocate for African entrepreneurship. His platform provides valuable visibility for startups through media and events, including the Africa Startup Summit. This event focuses on showcasing and nurturing African startups, offering a dynamic space for networking, pitching, and knowledge sharing among entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders. Jackson’s work is central to promoting and supporting Africa’s tech ecosystem.

Christophe Viarnaud – AfricArena

Christophe Viarnaud, founder and CEO of AfricArena, is a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for driving growth in Africa’s venture capital scene. AfricArena, a premier tech conference, connects African startups with international investors, facilitating strategic partnerships and growth. Viarnaud’s efforts have been crucial in bridging the gap between African tech innovators and global investors, enhancing the continent’s tech landscape.

Tom Cuthell – Africa Tech Festival (Incorporating AfricaCom)

Tom Cuthell, Event Director at Informa Tech, oversees the Africa Tech Festival and its flagship event, AfricaCom. His role in managing these major tech gatherings highlights his commitment to showcasing innovation, policy development, and infrastructure growth in telecommunications and digital technologies. Under Cuthell’s direction, the festival continues to be a key event for tech professionals, investors, and telecom leaders across the continent.