The Civic Tech Innovation Network (CTIN) and Jamlab Africa proudly present the annual convening of civic tech and media innovators from across Africa.
This year, the Civic Tech Innovation Forum and Jamfest will demonstrate various states of flow in Africa. The theme #AfricaFlows will showcase the dynamic and creative ways in which Africa is flowing – through collaboration, innovation, resilience and adaptation to rapid changes in technology and digital innovation. Flow speaks to our ability to create new pathways when old ones seem to fail. Flow reminds us that new pathways can be carved through new ideas and collective action.
Written by Yasmin Shapurjee and Rofhatutshedzwa Ramaswiela
Considering this unprecedented moment in our humanity, revolving around the rapid growth and application of technology, we believe that aligning the key themes of CTIF and Jamfest 2023 to our current reality is important. These overlapping topics are pivotal to spark conversations between researchers, journalists, civic tech innovators and media organizations. The four main sub-themes that CTIF/Jamfest will cover include:
- AI & Future of Work & Play
- Digital Rights & Threats: Imagining New Futures
- Digital Agency in an Age of Corruption
- Sustainable Financing for us (Media and Civic Tech)
The conference will provide a range of sessions such as:
- Opening and Closing Plenary – setting the scene for #AfricaFlows. Thereafter, the conference wraps, reflecting on key lessons and reaffirms our call to action!
- A full day of Masterclasses (Monday, 16th October 2023) on a range of topics related to AI Innovation, Digital Rights, Media Innovation and Digital Tools.
- The AI World Cafe – Presenting real life applications of AI tools/applications, processes and methodologies.
- Different workshop sessions that provide for engaging and rich discussions.
- Activation sessions which demonstrate different tool movements and advocacy strategies.
- Live Showcase on Tuesday, 17 October 2023 from 17:00 – 18:00 exhibiting various AI innovation projects and Civic Tech/Media initiatives and case studies.
- The African Union (AU) Media Cocktail Hour on Tuesday, 17 October 2023 from 17:00 – 18:00 : An exciting curated event!
- Constellation Social: The Constellation Social is a joint evening event with our Fak’ugesi African Digital Innovation Festival partner’s, and will take place on Tuesday, 17 October 2023. This is an opportunity to network and inspire change, while being entertained with live music.
We live in a world where technology is an accelerator of change and misconceptions of this change are, at times, prevalent. Consequently, hindering the intended flow of this technology. In response to these challenges, conferences such as CTIF/Jamfest aim to educate, engage, network and help move Africa forward. And through held conversations by people from spaces such as, governance, research, business actors, media gurus and innovators, change becomes inevitable.
So, in which ways does Africa flow? You have to attend in order to find out!
Register today for FREE and also stand a chance to win one of our goodie bags!
We look forward to flowing with you this year!
