Google’s most senior African executive, James Manyika, has called on the continent to rethink its role in the global technology landscape by moving beyond consumption and becoming a driver of innovation.
Speaking in an interview with BBC News Africa, Manyika emphasized that while Africa has one of the world’s fastest-growing populations of internet users, much of the technology consumed on the continent is imported rather than developed locally. He warned that unless Africa takes active steps to build its own innovation ecosystems, it risks being left behind in the ongoing digital transformation.
“Africa cannot afford to remain a passive consumer of technology. The real opportunity lies in creating and owning the solutions that address our unique challenges,” Manyika said.
Industry experts have long argued that the continent’s youthful population, rapid digital adoption, and expanding mobile penetration place it in a strong position to leapfrog traditional development pathways. Start-ups across Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt have already begun to make global impacts in fintech, e-commerce, and health technology. However, Manyika noted that Africa still faces barriers such as limited access to funding, infrastructure gaps, and a shortage of advanced technical skills.
Observers believe that deeper investment in research, education, and digital infrastructure could unlock Africa’s potential to shape the next wave of technological progress. With global demand rising for solutions in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and digital finance, Africa’s innovators have an opportunity to contribute not just to the local economy but also to the wider world.
Manyika’s remarks add to ongoing conversations about how Africa can transition from being a technology marketplace to becoming a center of creation, with the ability to export ideas and products that reflect its realities and aspirations.
