Rwanda will host the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Africa 2022 which will centre on technological innovation and inclusivity in the African mobile ecosystem.
The conference, slated for October 25 to 27 at Kigali Convention Centre, will convene global mobile operators, device manufacturers, technology providers, vendors and content owners, policymakers, and more.
Top on the agenda is building climate resilience through digital technologies in Africa, mobile money leadership forum, and reaching women and underserved groups at scale, among others.
"MWC Africa represents the entire technology and connectivity ecosystem. Not only are these brands helping us to realise the massive potential for digital growth across the continent, but they’re also supporting us to champion innovation and growth for our industry,” reads part of MWC statement.
Pascal Murasira, Managing Director of Norrsken East Africa, largest hub in Africa hosting different entrepreneurs in technology innovations, said that this presents more opportunities for local entrepreneurs to network and learn from their peers from all around the world.
"It’s also a great way to position Rwanda as the go-to proof of concept market for global innovators and access to capital for entrepreneurs in countries like Rwanda should be given high priority in the agenda of the summit,” he added.
Nadia Uwamahoro, founder of Data Systems Ltd and Gira ICT, noted that digital transformation is empowering communities, governments, and businesses in Africa.
"I am always eager to hear more connectivity solutions for Africa based on African context as I believe this is a priority for us. I am also eager to learn the latest trends as the mobile technology industry accelerates, empowers and innovates a brighter future for Africa,” she said.
The summit is expected to feature different speakers from government officials and other representatives in the digital ecosystem on key subjects that matter.
MWC Africa is organised by the Global System for Mobile Communication Association, a global organisation unifying the mobile ecosystem to discover, develop and deliver innovation foundational to positive business environments and societal change.
According to a GSMA report, by the end of 2020, 495 million people subscribed to mobile services in Sub-Saharan Africa, representing 46 per cent of the region’s population – an increase of almost 20 million in 2019.
It is projected that the number will rise to 615 million by 2025, representing 50 per cent of the region’s population.
Governments continue to make calls for equitable and affordable broadband connectivity on the continent for improved public health delivery, social-economic development, and in other aspects.