Anambra Innovation Week will pioneer Africa’s tech landscape – Special Adviser

The Special Adviser to the Anambra State Governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, Chinwe Okoli, has announced that Anambra Innovation Week 2024 (AIW 2024) will serve as a pivotal catalyst for Africa’s growth in technology and entrepreneurship.

During a press conference in Awka on Tuesday, Okoli, supported by the State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, revealed that the inaugural AIW2024 is scheduled to take place from 25 to 29 November 2024, under the theme “Creating the Future of Africa, now.”

“This landmark event aims to showcase Anambra’s dedication to innovation and technological development, driven by the vision of Governor Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo.

“At the heart of this initiative is the Solution Innovation District (SID), which aims to position Anambra as Nigeria’s leading hub for digital creativity and entrepreneurship.

The SID is committed to cultivating a vibrant ecosystem for digital talent, startups, and innovative enterprises within the state. Key initiatives include fostering the ‘Anambra Digital Tribe,’ supporting emerging startups, facilitating research commercialisation, and empowering businesses through technology.

“To date, initiatives such as LevelUp Anambra and Code Anambra have successfully equipped over 25,000 youth with essential tech skills, with many securing employments in the global market.

Additionally, the SID Teen Digital Bootcamp is nurturing a new generation of innovators ready to make a global impact.

“In line with these efforts, the state is currently implementing the Anambra State Startup Law—a customised version of the Nigerian Startup Act—to foster an enabling environment for creativity and sustainable economic growth. Governor Soludo has also prioritised infrastructure improvements, with over 2,000 km of fibre duct installed across the state to enhance internet connectivity.”

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Okoli noted that a 13.7-hectare area, currently housing the Government House, has been designated as the permanent site for SID, where a state-of-the-art innovation hub is already under construction.

“As preparations for AIW2024 intensify, innovators, policymakers, tech CEOs, entrepreneurs, investors, digital experts, and academics from across Africa and beyond are encouraged to participate. This five-day event will feature exhibitions, competitions, keynote speeches, workshops, masterclasses, and a Trade Novation Fair tailored for SMEs—all aimed at advancing technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship across the continent.

“A major highlight of AIW will be the signature competition, Battle4Solutions, which offers a prize pool exceeding ₦100 million. This competition invites Nigeria’s top startups to present innovative solutions addressing critical societal challenges in areas such as digital health, renewable energy, e-commerce, agritech, fintech, and education. Government ministries, academic institutions, startups, and creators are encouraged to participate, with further details available on our website.”

Okoli announced that applications for the Battle4Solutions competition are now open at www.innovationweek.anambrastate.gov.ng. She added that updates on confirmed speakers and partners will be shared via the Solution Innovation District’s social media channels and the Anambra Innovation Week event website.

“Together, let us forge a path towards a brighter future for Africa through innovation and collaboration,” Okoli said.