As we welcome spring—a season of growth and renewal—we reflect on the lasting impact of the GEC+Africa 2024 Congress, highlighted through the diverse activities that shaped the event. The Congress served as a catalyst for innovation, entrepreneurship, and socio-economic development across the continent.
The exhibition hall at GEC+Africa 2024 was a vibrant hub of interaction, showcasing a broad spectrum of organisations dedicated to advancing entrepreneurship and innovation.
Key participants included Africanbank and the Masisizane Fund champion financial empowerment and investment, GEN Nigeria led by Olawale Anifowose, DBA signified the importance of cross border collaborations while Allan&GillGray Philanthropies SA, and Allan Gray Orbis Foundation signified organisations who aim to foster the South African entrepreneurship ecosystem and lastly, tech leaders like Amazon SA and Microsoft SA pushed the boundaries of innovation.
Organisations such as the SAB Foundation, Telkom, and UNDP South Africa, demonstrated how social enterprises can leverage technology to fuel South Africa's entrepreneurial spirit.
Support for SMMEs and youth entrepreneurship was further emphasised by entities like the Department of Small Business Development, the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda), The Small Enterprise Finance Agency, the National Youth Development Agency, and the W&RSETA
Additionally, the Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) at GEC+Africa provided a dynamic platform for African entrepreneurs to showcase their innovations and compete for significant awards. Introduced by Carlos A. I., Director for Startups at the Global Entrepreneurship Network, the event celebrated the global entrepreneurial spirit, highlighting solutions that drive economic and social progress. Notable winners included Rethread Africa (Kenya), Thuto AI (South Africa), and Ukuhamba (South Africa), who exemplified innovation and impact.
These initiatives collectively underscore the enduring legacy of the GEC+Africa 2024 Congress, reinforcing its pivotal role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship across Africa and beyond.
The ripple effects of this event will continue to inspire collaboration, foster growth, and drive socio-economic development across the continent.