Goodwell Investments
In the next few years 1 billion users will come online for the first time, through mobile or broadband, balloons or microsatellites. They will discover new ways of connecting and communicating. They can access new sources of information, fresh content, new delivery channels, products, services, livelihoods and job opportunities. Supported by more than 100 technology hubs across the continent, African entrepreneurs are rolling out exciting new mobile solutions, innovative technologies and business models that are breaking down barriers in sectors like finance, agriculture, energy, education, health care and water and sanitation. What are the new business models and distribution channels that push and pull the masses into the digital economy? Will they benefit from this, and if not, who else will? How can we make these products, services and opportunities relevant for them? How will it change their lives, their homes, their families, the way they live, buy, earn, learn, love, pray, eat, vote, give birth, die? How will it affect their health, their wealth, their dreams and aspirations? Will they like all these changes, and will they be able to tell what they like and don't, what they need and want, and how they want it? Should we talk about ‘they’ and ‘we’, or are these lines blurring as digital divides disappear?