Hey everyone, Brad here! With Africa Tech Festival 2024 just around the corner, I figured I’d whip up a little survival guide to help you make the most of the event. Whether you’re a tech guru, a networking ninja, or just looking for some Cape Town fun, here’s everything you need to know before jetting off to the Mother City!

Africa Tech Festival: What’s the Big Deal?

First things first –why Africa Tech Festival? Well, it’s the ultimate gathering for techies, innovators, and industry leaders across Africa’s booming digital landscape. With 15,000+ attendees, 400+ speakers, and 300+ exhibitors from over 100 countries, this is the place to be if you want to network, learn, and soak in the best of Africa’s tech scene.

This year’s event is all about three key pillars:

1. Africa Com: The hub for telecoms, infrastructure, and connectivity – basically the backbone of Africa’s digital transformation.

2. Africa Tech: Showcasing all the futuristic stuff – AI, fintech, cybersecurity – the tech that’s pushing Africa forward.

3. Africa Ignite: Calling all start-ups! This is where founders, investors, and dreamers come together to spark ideas.

Brad’s Top Tips to Survive and Thrive at Africa Tech Fest

This isn’t my first rodeo, so here’s some wisdom I’ve picked up from past events.

1. Do Your Homework, Plan Your Schedule

Cape Town International Convention Centre (CICC) is massive. Get the app, schedule meetings, and plan, plan, plan. Want to talk to a speaker, partner, or potential customer? Book that slot yesterday. Also, don’t forget to familiarise yourself with the Africa Com Floorplan – it’s your new best friend.

2. Get There Early!

Trust me on this. Queues for badge collection are like the seventh circle of hell. Get your pass early, and you’ll thank me later when you breeze through the doors while everyone else is still stuck in line.

3. Bring ALL the Business Cards (Yes, People Still Use Them)

It’s 2024, and somehow, business cards are still a thing. Bring a stack, because you’ll be dishing them out like hotcakes. Also, make sure your tech is fully charged – laptops, mobile devices, portable chargers. The last thing you want is your phone dying mid-pitch!

4. Dress Code: Business Smart Meets Comfort

You’ll be clocking up those steps, so wear comfy shoes. Cape Town days can get warm, but don’t be fooled – evenings get nippy, so throw a jacket in your bag. You’ll thank me when the chill sets in after sunset.

5. Don’t Miss AFEST!

On 12th November, Africa Tech Festival transforms into a party at Grand Africa Café & Beach. There’s music, networking, drinks – it’s basically the place to let your hair down after a busy day at the festival. Make sure you grab your pass for AFEST when registering for the main event, or you’ll end up with a serious case of FOMO!

Explore Cape Town: Tech by Day, Adventure by Night

If you’ve never been to Cape Town, you’re in for a treat. It’s one of the world’s most beautiful cities, and when you’re not soaking up all the tech wisdom, here’s what you should check out:

1. V&A Waterfront

The city’s buzzing harbour with restaurants, bars, shops, and boat trips. If you’re into whale watching or just fancy some top-notch seafood, this is your go-to spot.

2. Table Mountain

One of the New7Wonders of Nature. Take the cable car up, and you’ll get panoramic views of the city and beyond. Pro tip: Go early to beat the crowds!

3. Robben Island

Fancy a bit of history? Head to the island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. It’s a short boat ride away, and the tours are powerful and moving.

4. Boulder Bay Penguins

Yes, penguins in Africa! Head over to Boulder Bay to meet the adorable colony of African penguins.

5. Wine Tasting

Cape Town is surrounded by wine regions like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, famous for world-class wines. So, why not spend a day sipping on some of South Africa’s finest?

Safety First: The Do’s and Don’ts in Cape Town

Now, Cape Town’s a stunner, but like any big city, there are some safety tips to bear in mind:

• Do: Stick to registered transport – shuttles, Ubers, or taxis – and keep your valuables out of sight.

• Do: Plan your restaurant bookings early, especially if you’re eyeing a table at the V&A Waterfront.

• Don’t: Wander around unfamiliar areas (especially after dark) or flash your pricey gadgets. Be street-smart, and you’ll be golden.

• Do: Tip your waiters and hotel staff – the local standard is 10-15%.

• Don’t: Go near the Cape Flats – not even locals venture into them.

• Don’t go Hiking by yourself – stay in a group and let people know your route.

• Do: Bring a coat, it gets a little chilly at night.

Wine & Dine: Brad’s Favourites

Hungry after a long day of networking? Here are some of my top picks for dining and drinks in Cape Town:

• Karibu for traditional South African flavours

• The Potluck Club if you’re after something a bit more eclectic

• Fireman’s Arms for a classic pub vibe

• Grand Beach Café for chilled beach vibes (also, the venue for AFEST!)

Make sure you book ahead – popular spots fill up fast, especially during big events like Africa Tech Festival.

If you’re heading to this year’s event and want to catch up, I’d love to chat about how OV offers end-to-end cellular IoT solutions designed to connect, manage, and secure projects across Africa. With our OV One connectivity management platform and dedicated IoT agreements with mobile network operators across the continent, we provide multi-network data/SMS/voice, eSIM/eUICC capabilities, and ensure unparalleled coverage and reliability.

To book a meeting, click here

Let’s connect and explore how OV can power your next IoT project!

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