African innovation shines at Vivatech 2024 with Algeria leading the charge
Europe’s largest trade show for new technologies, Vivatech 2024, recently concluded at Porte de Versailles in Paris, spotlighting global innovation.
African talent shone brightly, with Algeria notably positioning itself as a regional hub for innovation and reversing the brain drain.
Sid Ali Zerrouki, Managing Director of Algeria Venture, highlighted the urgency of technological advancement: «AI is not the future, it’s now! We need an elite capable of mastering these technologies to stay competitive. Our goal is to be a leading hub of innovation in Africa and the Mediterranean region».
Zerrouki also noted a significant trend reversal: «One out of every three startups in Algeria is now founded by an entrepreneur based abroad. We’re proud to be reversing the brain drain»!
The rise of artificial intelligence is opening new opportunities in fintech, green tech, and e-commerce across Africa.
François Bitouzet, Managing Director of Vivatech, sees great potential for the emergence of new unicorns on the continent.
«Tech is now adapting to us», Bitouzet observed. «This shift is rebalancing the global landscape, particularly between nations. Affordable access to artificial intelligence allows Europe and Africa to catch up with the U.S. and China. Africa, with its talent, infrastructure, and growing demand, is well-positioned to seize these opportunities. We aim to spotlight that potential. There’s a clear path forward for Africa in tech».
Vivatech serves as a crucial accelerator for African startups, celebrated annually at the Africatech Awards.
This year’s winners include Thalia psychotherapy, which uses artificial intelligence to make mental health care more accessible and affordable.
Wamuyu Wanjohi, a junior associate at Thalia, explained, «This award will help us develop our website further, making mental health services accessible to Africans, including those in the diaspora».
According to “Africanews”, 37 African countries were represented at Vivatech 2024, highlighting the diverse and dynamic nature of the continent’s tech ecosystem. The event showcased Africa’s growing influence in global digital innovation.
Source: Africanews.com
