The 18th Annual ICT Summit concluded with resounding success at the East London International Convention Centre, uniting industry leaders, government officials, and technology innovators to chart the future of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in South Africa and beyond.
In a powerful opening address, Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane underscored the urgent need for innovation and inclusivity in the province’s digital transformation journey, setting a bold tone for the Summit.
Deputy Minister Mondli Gungubele from the Department of Communications and Technology echoed this call, outlining national strategies aimed at enhancing connectivity and driving technological progress. He emphasized the pivotal role of public-private partnerships in promoting digital inclusion across the nation.
Highlighting a commitment to policy reform, Mr. Mbulelo Sogoni, Director-General of the Eastern Cape Provincial Government, affirmed efforts to improve ICT accessibility for underserved communities.
One of the Summit’s standout moments came from award-winning designer Magadla Ngxokolo, who captivated attendees with his vision for a future where fashion and technology intersect. “In the future, we will see clothing stitched together with technology, redefining how we interact with apparel and design,” he predicted.
Ms. Nomvuyiso Batyi, CEO of the Association of Communications & Technology, addressed the evolving ICT policy framework, calling for cooperation among stakeholders to ensure a more equitable and digitally inclusive South Africa.
Discussions also revolved around the impact of ICT on media, the future of e-commerce, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies like AI, blockchain, and IoT.
Eastern Cape authorities highlighted the necessity of extending digital access to rural communities, a sentiment that resonated strongly among Summit attendees. The event concluded with a renewed commitment from both public and private sectors to leverage technology for meaningful change.
The 18th Annual ICT Summit reaffirmed the Eastern Cape’s burgeoning role as a hub for technological innovation, fostering a collaborative environment for ideas that promise to reshape the digital landscape of South Africa.
