Part 1- The African Tech Ecosystem needs Policing…
As one the proud ancient of the African Tech Ecosystem, I have been very sad to read issues raised recently on social media channels, and news medias. They have hurt my heart deeply. So much time has been spent building this African Ecosystem in order to put us on the Global Map but also elevate the lives of our people through tech and innovation. Issues raised are: Sexual Harassment, Fraud, Money Laundering, Entrepreneurs entering into dodgy deals, Entrepreneur stealing others people ideas and brands, Young men and women put into vulnerable situation by foreigners, Plagiarism, Quick fixes, Alcohol and drug abuse at lavish parties, bullying, sexism, discrimation, racism, lack of gratitude to mentors and funders etc.. This makes me really really sad and should not happen at all.
For those who have been here since 2001, will know that the African Tech Ecosystem is now a teenager, a teenager who is growing with impulse, temptation, rebellious attitude, will, of course, make mistakes on the way but this does not mean that no boundaries should be put in place to stop him/her going crazy. It needs mentoring, understanding, listening, education, money and support.
It took a very long time to build this Ecosystem that we are all proud of and literally enjoying. Globally people are fascinated by it and some organization have put lots of money, time and energy into it, therefore when these issues are raised we must quickly take responsibility and protect it. We are all involved in this community. Each of one us, from Dakar to Madagascar. All of us!! Nobody has got the monopoly of it or owns it.
In Africa, when a teenage boy or girl is growing up, the aunts, cousins, and uncles will have their say when things are going wrong in her or his life. They call them to de-escalate the situations, mediate and put them straight. They show emotions and support them as much as they can.
The African tech Ecosystem needs more voices or “us” who are called the pioneers, by the Media to protect it, to speak up, to share ideas and put boundaries in place and make sure people respect rules and regulations or at least obey by it. This is our Community!!
It is very hard to build a credible Ecosystem, but so easy to destroy it with rumors, lack of actions, lack of empathy, kindness, compassion, and leadership. Africa has got 54 countries, and each child of Africa must be called out or disciplined by the entire continent, not just by one country when things go wrong. After all, we are a Mega community and it is our duty to protect the teenage boy and girl under our Palaver tree and respectfully.
To be continued… on Part 2
