Kathy Gibson reports from MyWorld of Tomorrow – African solutions for African problems – that’s the overarching motivation for the My World of Tomorrow conference and exhibition taking place in Sandton from 22 to 24 October.

Isaac Mophatlane, CEO of Business Connexion, says the thinking behind the event – first conceived about two years ago – was to create a movement where African people can come together and discover solutions to our problems.

“We want the ultimate outcome to be a positive impact on our future,” he says. “MyWorld of Tomorrow creates a space that allows people to unlock and explore the technology that can unlock our future.”

Mophatlane believes that we are entering the era of the Afro-optimist. “We understand out problems and can create our own solutions for the continent.

“Despite the challenges we have, we somehow find a way to overcome.”

Mophatlane used the occasion of the MyWorld of Tomorrow CEO’s dinner to remember the setting up last year of the Benjamin Mophatlance Foundation, which commemorates his twin brother Benjamin.

“He believed the most significant effect of ICT is the ability for ordinary people to come into contact with new ideas. And that we have an important role to play in that – not because it’s our duty, or our job, but it is our privilege.

“Benjamin’s dream was that no-one get left behind.”

Just two months ago, Telkom’s acquisition of BCX was finalised. Mophatlane believes that the joint company will be a key enabler of the future and provider of the Internet of Things.

Sipho Maseko, CEO of Telkom, points out that the acquisition of BCX is a great fit for Telkom’s business going forward.

“For us, BCX is the vehicle that will help us to deliver a differently imagined South Africa,” he says.

“In the end, technology needs to solve a practical purpose. We need to ensure kids learn better than before, that health is delivered better than before, that people are moved better than before.

“If technology doesn’t solve practical problems, it’s worthless.”