Sponsor Informational Lunch: Tlcom Capital

In the realm of Africa's mobile money evolution spanning the last seventeen years, telecom companies initially took the lead, steering growth and diversification. Yet, the narrative is shifting with the rise of fintech startups, who are evolving beyond mobile money infrastructure to value-add services like credit, insurance, savings, and connectivity across global borders. This transition has left telecom companies struggling to keep pace, raising questions about the sustainability of their traditional business models. The pivotal query revolves around whether the market's tilt toward these incremental financial services will challenge the established order. Fintech startups, considered catalysts for this transformation, are nudging telecom companies to revamp their mobile money operations into more agile fintech entities.

In the past decade, the African continent has experienced a remarkable surge in startup activity, as many enterprising individuals have set their sights on solving local challenges through innovative solutions. However, this momentum has been met with a challenging year, where several startups have been forced to either shut down or significantly downsize to weather the current storm. This panel will focus on how African startups can scale from 0 to 1 and from 1 to 100 and how they can access capital, talent, and mentorship to fuel sustainable growth.

This panel will explore how Africa can harness the increasing soft power of its entertainment industry to effectively compete in the global arena. With the continent's vibrant music, film, and cultural offerings are gaining international recognition, it's essential to understand the potential for economic growth and global influence. Discover the strategies, challenges, and opportunities as we delve into the role of African entertainment in enhancing the continent's global competitiveness, fostering economic development, and shaping perceptions on the world stage. Join us to unravel the untapped potential of Africa's entertainment soft power and its significance in the era of global competition.