By H.E. Younus Al Nasser, Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Data and Statistics Establishment, part of Digital Dubai. Al Nasser is a globally recognized leader in planning and implementing city-wide digital transformation and building holistic data ecosystems.

Digital Dubai’s participation at GITEX Africa 2024 has presented a great opportunity for us to delve into some of the key themes of the event. With a 50-person strong contingency, representing nine Dubai government entities, our goal is to collaborate, share knowledge and understand what the African public and private sector entities, have developed to support and grow its ecosystems, as well as to understand what they are working on in the technology space. One of the core themes I’d like to explore is AI.

In recent years, the global landscape has witnessed a remarkable surge in the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology across various sectors. Africa, with its rich potential and diverse challenges, stands at the cusp of a transformative era driven by AI innovations. As we delve into the future of AI in Africa, it becomes increasingly evident that harnessing this technology holds immense promise for sustainable development, economic growth, and social empowerment across the continent.

According to a recent report by the International Data Corporation (apo-opa.co/4bS52ac) 1 (IDC), it was predicted that spending on AI in the Middle East, Turkey, Africa (META) region will top $3.0 billion this year, up 32% from 2023. Available data from Statista states that the continent’s AI market will grow 30% annually over the next six years to a value of $17 billion (apo-opa.co/4bYyqM5) 2. This surge takes the continent into the global AI innovation race. According to the AI Everything Expo at GITEX AFRICA, this year centres the world’s attention on Africa’s booming AI phenomenon. This surge is not merely about adopting the latest tech trends; it signifies a strategic imperative for African nations to leapfrog into a future where AI can address pressing societal challenges while unlocking new opportunities.

One of the key areas where AI is poised to make a substantial impact is healthcare. With AI-powered diagnostics, predictive analytics, and telemedicine solutions, healthcare delivery in Africa is likely to become more accessible, efficient, and cost-effective. For instance, AI algorithms can analyze medical imaging data to detect diseases earlier than existing methods, leading to better treatment outcomes and reduced healthcare disparities.

Concerning healthcare, since 2014, Digital Dubai, in partnership with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), has been on a steadfast mission to enhance healthcare experiences for patients and residents through a fusion of innovation and smart technologies. Their efforts have yielded remarkable progress, with a staggering 98.55% (apo-opa.co/4bTB31I) 3 digital completion rate reflecting comprehensive digitization across healthcare processes. This achievement ensures seamless access to medical services and information, contributing to an improved patient experience.

AI-driven agricultural technologies hold immense promise for addressing food security challenges in Africa. With predictive analytics, precision farming techniques, and smart irrigation systems, farmers can optimize crop yields, mitigate risks related to climate change, and improve overall agricultural productivity. This not only enhances food security but also creates new economic opportunities in rural areas.

Furthermore, education is another critical sector where AI can revolutionize learning experiences and bridge the digital divide. AI-powered, personalized learning platforms can adapt to individual student needs, provide real-time feedback, and enhance overall learning outcomes.

The successful deployment of AI in Africa requires a concerted effort from governments, private sector stakeholders, and civil society. Collaborative initiatives focused on AI research and development, talent development, and regulatory frameworks are essential for creating an enabling ecosystem that fosters AI innovation while ensuring ethical and responsible AI use.

In Dubai, UAE, AI has become the driving force behind our ambitious vision for a smart, sustainable future. By 2030, PwC estimates that AI will generate $320 billion (apo-opa.co/4aEZIpI) 4 for the Middle East region. The UAE will see the largest impact, with the technology contributing nearly 14% to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). This is equivalent to about $97 billion (apo-opa.co/4aEZIpI) 4. This forecast amplifies Digital Dubai Authority’s intense efforts to advance the city’s growth by making AI one of its priorities.

Dubai has launched a series of initiatives to support its AI journey, including the likes of Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (apo-opa.co/4bqiDWp) 5 which aims to make Dubai and its government the global leaders in implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI), preparing for the world’s evolving technology landscape. In addition, Digital Dubai launched its new DubaiAI Chatbot (apo-opa.co/3yA8JTv) 6 at the Dubai Assembly for Generative AI. The AI chatbot acts as a personal digital assistant for users, designed using generative AI to answer their queries in real-time, with a personalized touch, helping users feel that the answers are tailored specifically for them in an interactive dialogue context.

In April this year, Dubai announced the launch of the Dubai Universal Blueprint (apo-opa.co/4by5jzr) 7 for Artificial Intelligence. This Blueprint aims to achieve key targets of Dubai’s economic agenda D33, which has set out ambitious goals of doubling the size of Dubai’s economy over the next decade and reinforce its position amongst the top 3 global cities. The Blueprint will support in adding Dh100 billion to the city’s economy and increasing economic productivity by 50 percent. Additionally, the Blueprint is designed to enhance quality of life in Dubai. With the adoption of AI across all significant sectors for the future of the city as well as becoming the best and fastest city in employing technology and adopting advance applications.

Embracing AI responsibly and ethically is not just a choice but a necessity, as it empowers countries to unlock unprecedented opportunities while addressing complex challenges. The UAE Strategy (apo-opa.co/3WZ8bk9) 8 for Artificial Intelligence aims to achieve the objectives of UAE Centennial 2071 (apo-opa.co/3WW4eNe) 9, boost government performance at all levels, use an integrated smart digital system that can overcome challenges and provide quick efficient solutions, make the UAE the first in the field of AI investments in various sectors and create a new, vital market with high economic value. By fostering collaboration, investing in talent, and promoting inclusivity, the full potential of AI can be harnessed to build a better world. Together, let us embark on this transformative journey, where AI catalyzes positive change, prosperity, and human advancement.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.

Notes to Editor:
Digital Dubai was established by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President&Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, in June 2021 to develop and oversee the implementation of policies and strategies that govern all matters related to Dubai’s information technology, data, digital transformation, and cyber-security.

Digital Dubai brings together the expertise of three entities – Dubai Data&Statistics Establishment, Digital Dubai Government Establishment and Dubai Electronic Security Center, – to ensure a collaborative effort towards achieving the vision of the city’s leadership to make Dubai a globally leading digital economy.

The entity has been entrusted with four key tasks – accelerate digital transformation of the city through strategic partnerships with governments and private sector entities, increase the Emirate’s digital economy contribution to the city’s GDP, build and develop digital competencies of national talent, and, maintain and develop Dubai’s digital wealth whilst accelerating Dubai’s cybersecurity efforts.

1 The Middle East&Africa Will See the World’s Fastest AI Spending Growth Through 2026, According to Latest Forecast from IDC (11 Apr 2023): https://apo-opa.co/4aBZ9N9

2 Business am (May 2024): https://apo-opa.co/4bYyqM5

3 Government of Dubai (19 October 2023): https://apo-opa.co/4bTB31I

4 Economy Middle East (February 6, 2024): https://apo-opa.co/4aIi4WK

5 Dubai Future Foundation: https://apo-opa.co/4bqiDWp

6 Digital Dubai Authority (October 2023): https://apo-opa.co/3yA8JTv

7 Gulf News (April 29, 2024): https://apo-opa.co/4by5jzr

8 UAE Government, UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence (7 Nov 2023): https://apo-opa.co/3WZ8bk9

9 UAE Government, Centennial 2071: https://apo-opa.co/3WW4eNe

Debut event supported by Moroccan Ministry of Health and Social Protection, Moroccan Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, and Digital Development Agency, spotlights tech’s transformative role in advancing Africa’s healthcare opportunity; Africa CDC, Africa Healthcare Federation, PATH partner with powerful forum propelling innovative solutions solving Africa’s unique healthcare challenges; Major hospital groups, African ministries to descend upon three-day health-tech investment exhibition catalysing new cross-continental digital health agenda.

Technology’s transformative role in transcending the great African healthcare challenge will come under the spotlight at a powerful new forum in Morocco, catalysing fresh impetus and investment in the continent’s US$6.3 billion digital health market that’s estimated to grow 11 percent annually over the next five years.

World Future Health Africa 2024 presented by GITEX Health Tech 5.0 is supported by the Moroccan Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the Moroccan Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, and Digital Development Agency (ADD), and will accelerate collaborative public-private sector pursuits aimed at supercharging affordable and accessible healthcare for the continent’s 1.5 billion people, stimulating new medical advances and investment in a digital health market that, according to analysts Statista, will reach revenues of US$9.5 billion by 2028. 

Taking place from 29-31 May 2024 in Marrakech, Morocco, the inaugural forum is co-located with the 2nd edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco, the continent’s largest and most influential tech and start-up event, leading a tech-fuelled revolution centred around tech-enabled products and services for communities, health workers, public health leaders, and regulators.

The three-day powerhouse event arrives as Morocco forges ahead with multi-billion-dollar investment initiatives to elevate African health, spearheaded by a US$3 billion cash injection in 2024 to digitalise Morocco’s healthcare sector.

His Excellency Khalid Aït Taleb, Minister of the Moroccan Ministry of Health and Social Protection, said: “Under the Enlightened leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Morocco has taken a major step forward in the digitisation of health care, a fundamental pillar of the overhaul of the National Health System, which supports the royal project on social protection. The approach adopted is patient-centred, developing personalised, secure medicine and reducing social and spatial inequalities in access to care.

“In this regard, we consider the launch of World Future Health Africa during the second edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco, as an important opportunity to explore structuring public-private partnership projects between African actors, to accelerate the digital transformation of Africa’s health sector to make it more robust, resilient and efficient.”

Uniting Africa’s burgeoning digital economy with innovative health-tech

Africa CDC, Africa Healthcare Federation, and PATH (Program for Appropriate Technology in Health), are among the leading global and African healthcare entities partnering with World Future Health Africa 2024 to propel a new wave of digital solutions addressing the continent’s most pressing healthcare challenges.

Senior decision makers from major hospital groups including Mayo Clinic, Mediclinic Group, Aster DM Healthcare, alongside representatives from African Health Ministries and Agencies will also look to amplify collaborative investment opportunities via Africa’s most comprehensive and impactful dual-conference programme. Mediot, Abbot, IQVIA, Fujifilm, and FM6SS are among the seasoned enterprises and organisations driving health tech innovation across the region joining the first edition of the powerhouse exhibition.

World Future Health Africa 2024 alongside GITEX AFRICA Morocco will unite Africa’s burgeoning digital economy with innovative health-tech solutions, leapfrogging traditional boundaries and challenges that have hampered cross-continental progress.

H.E. Dr Ghita Mezzour, Minister of the Moroccan Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, said: “We consider the digitalisation of health as an essential component of our national roadmap, with royal directives placing social protection as a national priority.

“The debut of World Future Health Africa alongside GITEX AFRICA Morocco is a wonderful opportunity to shed light on the intersection of tech creativity with government priorities, fast-track partnerships in the African continent, boost innovation, and streamline synergies between the public and private sector.”

Sidi Mohammed Drissi Melyani, the General Director of ADD, added: “Launching World Future Health Africa during the 2nd edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco is a strategic move amplifying the impact of both events. We have a unique opportunity to showcase digital health innovations not just for Morocco, but for the entire African continent.

“By connecting healthcare leaders at World Future Health Africa with the tech ecosystem at GITEX AFRICA Morocco, we can initiate collaborations and accelerate the digital transformation of healthcare across the region. This co-location empowers our continent’s digital health stakeholders to not only solve existing challenges but also shape the future of healthcare delivery, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous Africa for all.”

Fast forwarding Africa’s digital health investment momentum

GITEX AFRICA Morocco and World Future Health Africa are organised by KAOUN International, the international affiliate of Dubai World Trade Centre, which organises GITEX, the world’s largest tech event brand globally.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, said: “World Future Health Africa 2024 presented by GITEX Health Tech 5.0 will debut in a crucial juncture for Africa, while the health tech industry stands to gain immensely from emerging and rapidly advancing technologies, such as AI, Data, and IoT. This powerful platform will elevate the capabilities of established healthcare enterprises, trailblazing e-health businesses, and forward-thinking government initiatives to drive significant impact and fuel the digital health transformation in the region”.

More information is available at www.WorldFutureHealth.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.

Media Contact:
Tayce Marchesi – PR Executive
Tel.: + 971 58 552 3994
Tayce.Marchesi@dwtc.com

On social media:
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About KAOUN International:
KAOUN International is the independent events company and wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) established to organize and manage events internationally. Derived from the Arabic word ‘universe’, KAOUN International’s mission is to ‘Create Limitless Connections’ for the industries and markets in which it operates. Created to leverage the 40-year legacy of DWTC’s events management business and drive future MICE sector opportunity in the MENASA region. KAOUN International delivers game-changing live experiences that build robust business connections, create opportunity, and stimulate economic growth, building on DWTC’s extensive portfolio of business and consumer events spanning multiple sectors, including technology, food and hospitality, sustainability, broadcast and satellite, automotive, talent development and leisure marine.

The African Diplomatic Corps and leaders from the Canadian government and business gathered in Canada’s capital, for the Africa Day Awards Ceremony with the African Group of Ambassadors in Ottawa and Pont-Bridge.

Garreth Bloor, President of The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business, received the 2024 Zambezi-Kilimanjaro Excellence Award, ‘in recognition of your exceptional contribution to promote relations between Canada and Africa’.

Awarded by The Group of African Ambassadors in Ottawa, fellow award recipients during the evening included former Governor General of Canada Michaëlle Jean, who received the Canada-Africa Friendship Baobab Charter Menden Award.

“In the context of the 2024 Zambezi-Kilimanjaro Excellence Award, I am honoured but must recognize a few leaders who have played a key role in the Chamber’s massive expansion – taking Canadian companies to African markets. By far none more so of late than retired Ambassador, Paula Caldwell St-Onge (https://apo-opa.co/3wSWJMs), Chair of the Board of Directors,” said Bloor.

The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business recently celebrated its 30th Anniversary, with messages from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Hon. Minister Mary Ng, responsible for international trade, and Premier Doug Ford, of the Province of Ontario.

In addition to recent programs in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, South Africa and the United States, upcoming conferences in Zimbabwe as well as across Canada are among a range of events on the organization’s 2024 calendar.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business.

Canon’s (Canon-CNA.com) Miraisha Programme focuses on delivering job opportunities and future livelihoods to young people across Africa through skills workshops, training programmes and enterprise support; The programme has educated more than 7000+ future professionals across the continent, helping them to gain qualifications, secure employment and set up their own businesses. 

Canon Central and North Africa, a global leader in imaging solutions, proudly announces the 10th anniversary of its Miraisha Programme, marking a decade of empowering young Africans through skills development and job opportunities. Since its inception, the Miraisha Programme has achieved significant milestones, including the establishment of 33 partnerships with various organisations, the training of over 7,000 participants, and a target to train 10,000 participants by 2027. 

Aligning with Canon’s corporate philosophy of Kyosei, which means living and working together for the common good, the Miraisha Programme fosters job opportunities in Africa by providing workshops for photographers, videographers, filmmakers, and print business owners. The name ‘Miraisha’ is a fusion of Japanese and Swahili, symbolising the programme’s cross-cultural approach.  

Since 2014, the Miraisha Programme has worked with a wide range of organisations across Africa, including Kenyatta University, Kenya Film Commission (KFC), Kenya Photography Awards, Yabba College of Technology in Nigeria, Uganda Press Photo Award (UPPA), The NRB Bus, Zebra Productions Kenya LTD, and Lens on Life, PEFTI Film Institute in Nigeria and National Film&TV Institute of Ghana (NAFTI) amongst many other organisations and events. The programme has played an instrumental role in fostering future livelihoods across the African continent. 

“We are excited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of our Miraisha Programme, which embodies our ongoing commitment to empowering youth and supporting sustainable development across Africa,” says Somesh Adukia, Managing Director of Canon Central and North Africa. “This programme has been instrumental in fostering talent, creating opportunities, and catalysing positive change. As we reflect on a decade of impact, we reaffirm our dedication to nurturing talent and driving societal progress through initiatives like Miraisha. 

“Our company’s purpose goes beyond making profits; it’s about serving communities and enhancing people’s lives. We recognise the critical importance of developing skills and promoting livelihoods, particularly in regions like Africa, where growth opportunities are paramount. As the Miraisha Programme enters its second decade, Canon looks forward to expanding its reach and empowering even more young people to pursue their passions and build successful careers in the imaging industry.” 

To celebrate this significant milestone, the company has planned a series of activities throughout the anniversary year. These activities include a portfolio review exclusively for photographers residing in Africa, with a specialized focus on documentary and wedding photography. Upon submission, selected portfolios will undergo comprehensive reviews by Canon experts, offering participants valuable insights and constructive feedback. 

Chosen individuals will be rewarded with  personalised mentorship, allowing them to refine their craft and further develop their skills under the guidance of seasoned professionals within the industry.  

Furthermore, as part of the commemoration, Canon will issue a coffee table book, showcasing the outstanding work and achievements of both Miraisha students and Canon trainers throughout the past decade. This visually stunning publication will serve as a tribute portraying the talents and dedication cultivated within the programme, highlighting inspiring success stories and key projects undertaken by participants.  

Additionally, there will be panel discussions conducted in collaboration with Miraisha partners and Canon, focusing on key topics such as the programme’s vital role in addressing skills gaps across Africa. These will serve as a platform for in-depth exploration and exchange of ideas, aiming to shed light on the challenges and opportunities within the industry.  These discussions will also lay the groundwork for the development of future feature articles, providing a comprehensive analysis and commentary derived from the insights garnered during the talks.  

The Miraisha Programme will also offer online training master classes conducted by industry experts in both English and French. These sessions, available via social media registration, will cater to passionate photographers and filmmakers, offering invaluable skills development opportunities. Centered on the business aspects of photography, they will empower attendees with the expertise and acumen necessary to either initiate their own ventures or enhance their current business models and strategies.Through a variety of courses, participants will have the chance to dive deeper into their craft, refine their techniques, and acquire new skills under the guidance of seasoned professionals.  

Canon remains committed to nurturing young talent and driving positive change in Africa through initiatives like the Miraisha Programme. By providing access to essential skills, mentorship opportunities, and resources, the company aims to unlock the full potential of the continent’s vibrant youth demographic, driving economic growth, innovation, and societal progress.  

Click here to learn more about the programme- https://apo-opa.co/4aEV8Yy

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (apo-opa.co/3SvVhrS)– ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: Canon-CNA.com