about summit
Overview of
the Summit
This summit will spotlight the pivotal role of technology in societal growth, with a special emphasis on empowering the youth. By concentrating on critical areas like digital policy, technological capacity, financial access for tech ventures, skill-building, and fostering government and private sector partnerships, the summit is uniquely designed to blend technological innovation with youth empowerment. It aims to serve as a dynamic platform for action-oriented commitments, encouraging young participants to showcase digital innovations, engage in meaningful policy dialogues, and forge strategic partnerships that champion tech integration and economic development. This tailored approach underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to catalysing tech-driven growth while harnessing the potential of its young population for a tech-centric future.
summit OBJECTIVES
Unveiling the National Innovation Vision and Roadmap
Faciliating Knowledge Exchange
Promoting Innovation Across Key sectors
Showcasing Advanced Technologies and Products
Creating Network Opportunities for Tech Integration
Enhance Private Sector Development
Focus on competitive Business Development
Conduct Workshops and Training Sessions
key components
Ministerial Discussions on DPGs
High-level roundtable including african ICT Ministers, government policymakers and development partners that will seek to explore the role of Digital Public Goods (DPGs) to advance the acceleration of digital transformation in the region and promote cross-border collaboration, reduce duplication of efforts, maximize resources and accelerate the collective digital transformation efforts in the region.
Pitch Presentations
Live demonstrations of technological applications across various sectors will showcase youth-led innovations addressing the unique challenges in Sierra Leone’s tech landscape. These demonstrations will highlight the creativity and ingenuity of young technologists and entrepreneurs, inspiring further innovation and collaboration.
Panel Discussions
High-level sessions featuring guest speakers, industry experts, private sector stakeholders, development partners, and government officials that will explore critical issues ranging from access to finance, infrastructure development and regulatory reforms aimed at building the tech ecosystem. Policy discussions will place a particular emphasis on youth empowerment and the role of technology in driving economic growth.
Agriculture Innovation Competition
Pitch competition that is designed to solicit and discover innovative technological solutions that improve agricultural productivity and sustainability, aligning with the national goals of food security, climate resilience, and economic growth under the President’s flagship Feed Salone programme.
Innovation Expo
An exhibition area will showcase innovative technologies, products, and solutions across various sectors, with a special emphasis on agriculture, education, health, climate change, finance and mining. Youth-led startups and initiatives will be highlighted, providing a platform for young innovators to showcase their contributions to technological advancement and socio-economic progress.
Networking Opportunities
Structured sessions designed to foster connections, collaborations, and partnerships, with a specific focus on engaging youth, tech companies, investors, government representatives, and other stakeholders. These networking opportunities will provide youth with access to mentorship, support networks, and potential collaborators, enhancing their participation in Sierra Leone’s tech ecosystem.
Our collective efforts will overcome challenges, achieve our goals, and create a brighter future for the next generation. Together we can build a society that thrives on the principles of justice, equality and prosperity.”
---HE President Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone