The recent Government Parastatals Conversation Panel session, themed “Collaborative Innovation: Shaping Africa’s Tomorrow Economy,” brought together prominent figures from various sectors to discuss the critical role of innovation and collaboration in driving economic growth across the continent. The event featured distinguished speakers, including the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi; the CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Communications, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey; the DG/CEO of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Chinyere Almona; and Mr. Olu Akinkugbe, Executive Director of Technical Services at Galaxy Backbone.
Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, represented at the panel by Dr. Aristotle Onumo, the Director of Stakeholders Management and Partnerships at NITDA, opened the session by highlighting the significance of collaboration in fostering innovation. In his address, Inuwa emphasized that in today’s fast-evolving global landscape, successful innovation cannot thrive in isolation. Instead, it requires a synergistic approach where stakeholders across industries work together to harness their collective strengths.
Dr. Onumo articulated Inuwa’s vision, stating that collaboration among government agencies, private enterprises, and civil society is essential for unlocking Africa’s economic potential. He stressed the necessity of establishing trust and transparency as foundational elements in building effective partnerships. According to Onumo, these principles not only foster goodwill but also facilitate open communication, which is vital for aligning objectives and achieving shared goals.
The panelists engaged in a lively discussion on various strategies for enhancing collaborative innovation, addressing challenges such as regulatory hurdles, resource allocation, and the need for a skilled workforce. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey echoed these sentiments, noting that the integration of technology in communication and commerce is pivotal in creating an enabling environment for innovation. He called for policies that support knowledge sharing and the development of digital infrastructure, which are essential for businesses to thrive.
Dr. Chinyere Almona added that the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry is committed to promoting collaborative initiatives that empower entrepreneurs and stimulate economic growth. She highlighted several ongoing projects aimed at facilitating partnerships between local and international businesses, which she believes will enhance Africa’s competitiveness in the global market.
Mr. Olu Akinkugbe shared insights from Galaxy Backbone, emphasizing the role of technology in bridging gaps between sectors. He reiterated the need for a cohesive strategy that leverages digital solutions to improve service delivery and operational efficiency across parastatals.
The session concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to embrace a collaborative mindset. The panelists collectively urged for the establishment of forums and networks that would foster continuous dialogue and innovation across Africa. By prioritizing collaboration and embracing trust and transparency, the leaders believe Africa can effectively navigate the challenges ahead and shape a prosperous economic future.
