AfriLabs and the African Union (AU) proudly announces the launch of AU Tech 2.0, the second edition of the Tech Fellowship Initiative, builds upon the successes of its predecessor to further harness technology and innovation for socio-economic development across the continent.

The initiative stems from the AU’s endorsement of the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (DTS) during its 36th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council. This strategy, aimed at leveraging digital technologies to promote integration, economic growth, job creation, and poverty eradication, provides the foundation for initiatives like AU Tech 2.0.

Additionally, the AU’s pledge to achieve gender parity and youth empowerment by 2025 underscores its commitment to inclusivity. Through programs like the Tech Fellowship, the AU is actively engaging young Africans in shaping the continent’s future.

The AU Tech Fellowship is a pioneering program designed to identify and deploy highly skilled tech innovators across the continent. Fellows are embedded within various AU units and organs to understand their operations, identify challenges, and propose innovative solutions. Since its inception in 2021, the program has yielded impressive results, with fellows developing tailored products and processes to enhance the delivery of the AU’s mandate.

Key outcomes of the program include the development of 12 innovative products and the launch of the African Union digital portal, revolutionizing service delivery within the commission. Moreover, the fellowship has not only enhanced internal capacity but also fostered closer collaboration between the AU and Africa’s innovation ecosystem.

The launch event for AU Tech 2.0 is scheduled to be held on Thursday, March 28th, 2024, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm EAT via Zoom. The event will provide a platform to announce the second edition of the Tech Fellowship Initiative and solicit feedback from stakeholders. Key highlights of the event include presentations on the fellowship program, testimonials from previous fellows, and moderated discussions with participants.

The event will feature key representatives from the AU Commission, AU Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), and Afrilabs, along with stakeholders from Africa’s innovation ecosystem.

AU Tech 2.0 represents a pivotal moment in Africa’s journey towards digital transformation. By nurturing the next generation of tech leaders and fostering collaboration with the innovation ecosystem, the AU is driving positive change and laying the groundwork for a prosperous and inclusive future. Visit  AU Tech 2.0 launch event to register and join us for the event.

About African Union:

The African Union (AU) is a continental body consisting of 55 member states representing the continent of Africa. Its vision is to achieve “an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.”

To learn more about the launch event contact Lisa@afrilabs.com, MateteM@africa-union.org, husnia.mohamed@giz.de  and cc Chibudu@afrilabs.com. For general information about the AU Digital and Innovation Fellowship Programme,  please visit www.auinnovationfellowship.com 

For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com