Insights into open innovation and ICT entrepreneurship in Africa

Abstract

Innovation and ICT entrepreneurship are slowly being recognised as important enablers of socio-economic growth and realising national strategic goals in African Member States. However, the level of practical skills capacity, indigenous entrepreneurial expertise and policy support to take full advantage of this at national level varies considerably. This research study focused on identifying factors impacting on the current level of open innovation and ICT entrepreneurship in Africa. It was informed by a semi-structured, moderated focus group which captured the perspectives of senior public and education and research stakeholders from eight African Member States. The results highlighted six main factors: (a) level of political will reflected by resource prioritisation; (b) alignment with national development plans and associated funding priorities; (c) level of understanding of strategic benefits by ministers and senior civil servants; (d) level of awareness and sensitization of the general public, (e) availability of national innovation and entrepreneurial expertise; and (f) willingness and capacity to cooperate with other stakeholders to achieve common goals. Future research will capture perspectives from the private, societal and international donor sectors, and create and validate potential models/methodologies to address the challenges and opportunities identified in this study.