Chukwuemeka Afigbo, convener of the Africa Deep Tech Foundation, has called for stronger support systems to help African technologists build advanced technology companies across the continent. Speaking at the foundation’s first in person Africa Deep Tech Conference held in Lagos on February 25, 2026, Afigbo said the continent is not lacking ideas or talent but structured pathways that allow innovators to turn research and engineering breakthroughs into real companies.
The foundation, which operated privately for nearly three years as a network of technologists, investors and researchers, has been working to connect African builders with mentorship, resources and policy support. According to Afigbo, deep technology refers to innovations rooted in advanced scientific research and complex engineering, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence and hardware development.
Data shared during the conference showed that artificial intelligence could add about one trillion dollars to Africa’s economy by 2035, yet only a small number of African developers have access to the high performance computing infrastructure required for serious research. Experts also noted that although millions of young Africans enter the labour market each year, only a limited portion of the workforce currently possesses advanced digital skills.
Through programmes such as innovation challenges and mentorship networks, the foundation aims to help early stage builders move from ideas to working prototypes and viable products. Officials from institutions including the Nigerian Communications Commission and the National Information Technology Development Agency attended the event and signalled interest in deeper collaboration, as the initiative seeks to position Africa as a growing hub for deep technology innovation.