Africa Tech Talks

Today on our podcast, we're excited to welcome Darwin Costa, a standout figure in the internet infrastructure scene. 🎬 Full video: https://youtu.be/B-ENnNx4tFg00:00 Intro 02:42 Who is Darwin Costa04:42 What will the Internet Become (David Bowie Perspective in 1999)06:54 The perspective on Internet by Darwin07:41 The importance of the Sub-Sea Cables for the Internet11:08 Lag can Kill you (if you're playing online)17:36 The importance of IXP's (Internet Exchange Points)23:19 The state of the IXP's development 27:10 IPV6 33:01 IPV4 Vs. IPV640:42 Connectivity in Angola46:29 The country needs connectivity48:52 Data centers importance and governance54:55 Data centers Neutrality 56:41 Build Capability for the future1:03:19 Final remarks🗣️More about our guest:Darwin Costa is a true Internet evangelist, with a passion for the digital world that goes far beyond his professional pursuits. Armed with a bachelor's degree in business information technology and a Master's in Internet Business, he has immersed himself in the intricacies of networking, subsea cables, and Internet exchange points (IXPs).Currently, Darwin is a key player at DE-CIX GmbH, the largest interconnection platform in the world, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the global Internet landscape. However, his impact extends far beyond his day job. With an unwavering commitment to fostering Internet growth and accessibility, he dedicates countless hours to volunteering activities with organizations like AFRINIC and the African IXP association.But Darwin's true legacy may lie in his role as the founder of the Angolan Peering Forum, an initiative that aims to bridge the digital divide in his home country. Through this platform, he is paving the way for improved Internet connectivity, fostering collaboration among local stakeholders, and empowering communities to harness the transformative power of the Internet.Darwin Costa is more than just a tech enthusiast; he's a digital visionary, using his expertise and passion to create a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous world – one fiber optic cable at a time.Follow Darwin Costa on social media:https://www.linkedin.com/in/darwin-costa-40b48455/https://twitter.com/DarwinCosta1Follow us on:https://www.africatechtalks.com/https://twitter.com/afri_techtalkshttps://www.instagram.com/africatechtalks/https://www.linkedin.com/company/africa-tech-talksIvo Martins - https://www.ivo-martins.comAndré Cavaco - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-cavacoManuel Pinto de Andrade - https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-pinto-de-andrade-69a03812/Victor Calhau - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vitor-calhau/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit africatechtalks.substack.com

On today's episode of Africa Tech Talks, we are honored to welcome an Angolan Technology Entrepreneur in the HR space, Carlos Daniel, who’s the founder and CEO of Mirantes, a startup that promises to revolutionize the job search market, employee, and payroll management for the MSME companies.🎬 Full video: https://youtu.be/TJopxzQQSL800:00 Intro01:45 Who’s Carlos Daniel, the CEO of Mirantes03:55 What do we do at Mirantes?07:21 What specific problem does Mirantes solve?11:28 A novel approach to the market problem15:20 How will Mirantes evolve?18:20 Does experience matter?23:38 The two most important things26:41 Passion above money27:52 How to retain people?34:33 Advice for new Entrepreneur's37:37 The worst thing that can happen to an entrepreneur39:59 How to secure funding for a Startup in Angola?45:06 The most important metric for investors48:31 The first million is the most difficult49:34 What is the target market for Mirantes?54:25 Expansion to Dubai57:50 The challenges of growth1:01:00 Future funding1:06:31 A new generation of companies1:08:42 Start from Zero1:10:15 Final remarksCarlos Daniel is a multifaceted entrepreneur and strategic advisor with diverse expertise. He is the CEO and Founder of Mirantes Technologies, a company dedicated to delivering cutting-edge technology products. He leads a talented team in expanding the company's footprint across national and international markets.As the General Managing Partner & CEO at STATEMENT MC and Managing Partner at ST Academy, Carlos provides corporate training and consultancy services to major institutions in various sectors, empowering businesses with practical knowledge and skills.Additionally, Carlos is a Founder and Board Member of an undisclosed organization, further contributing to the growth and development of the industry.With a solid academic foundation, Carlos holds a Bachelor of Technology in Mechanical Engineering from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University and a Full Stack Web Development Certification from freeCodeCamp, showcasing his versatility and commitment to continuous learning.Through his diverse roles and entrepreneurial ventures, Carlos Daniel is making a significant impact, driving innovation, fostering entrepreneurship, and delivering value across multiple sectors.Follow Carlos Daniel on social media:https://ao.linkedin.com/in/carlos-c-danielhttps://www.instagram.com/carlos_danielstmcLinks and initiativeshttps://www.mirantes.iohttps://www.instagram.com/mirantes_technologies/https://www.linkedin.com/company/mirantes-tech/https://x.com/MirantesTechFollow us on:https://www.africatechtalks.com/https://www.youtube.com/@africatechtalkshttps://twitter.com/afri_techtalkshttps://www.instagram.com/africatechtalks/https://www.linkedin.com/company/africa-tech-talksIvo Martins - https://ivo-martins.comAndré Cavaco - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-cavacoManuel Pinto de Andrade - https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-pinto-de-andrade-69a03812/Victor Calhau - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vitor-calhau/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit africatechtalks.substack.com

On today's episode of Africa Tech Talks, we are honored to welcome a trailblazer in the healthcare digital sector, Dr. Ikpeme Neto. Neto is the founder and CEO of WellaHealth, a pioneering health-tech company that is bringing affordable healthcare and medications to millions of people.🎬Full video: https://youtu.be/Hyk_7-ekIOA00:00 Intro02:48 Origin Story07:58 The transition from being a doctor to an entrepreneur10:45 How early failures gave him valuable lessons15:28 The importance of having the core competencies in-house17:38 What is Wellahealth and its Vision22:11 Bringing insurance companies on-board26:08 Market a product based on trust30:23 Harnessing data35:00 The importance of data for Wellahealth40:15 Advice to entrepreneurs (Don’t do it!)48:37 Developing talent - WellaSchool54:38 Diversification57:14 How to address Malaria effectively59:22 Final Remarks🗣️ More about our guest:Neto has embarked on an extraordinary journey to revolutionize access to quality and affordable healthcare across Africa. With a diverse background in medicine, business, and entrepreneurship, he has harnessed the power of technology to address pressing healthcare challenges, leaving a mark on the lives of countless individuals. Join us as we get into Dr. Neto's inspiring story, from his roots as a medical professional to his entrepreneurial ventures and uncover the driving force behind WellaHealth's groundbreaking solutions.Follow Ikpembe Neto on social media:https://twitter.com/docnetohttps://ng.linkedin.com/in/ikpemenetoLinks and initiativeshttps://www.wellahealth.com/https://ng.linkedin.com/company/wellahealthtechFollow us on:https://www.africatechtalks.com/https://www.youtube.com/@africatechtalkshttps://twitter.com/afri_techtalkshttps://www.instagram.com/africatechtalks/https://www.linkedin.com/company/africa-tech-talksIvo Martins - https://ivo-martins.comAndré Cavaco - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-cavacoManuel Pinto de Andrade - https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-pinto-de-andrade-69a03812/Victor Calhau - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vitor-calhau/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit africatechtalks.substack.com

In today's episode, we're delighted to introduce Emerson Paim, an inspiring tech entrepreneur from Angola with a fascinating personal journey and a deep social and environmental conscience.🎬Full video: https://youtu.be/bzb7klHjXHA00:00 Intro03:44 The journey outside Angola14:05 Kubinga’s Inception23:08 The Seed Star Experience28:20 New Players in The Market32:30 Smarter Cities43:24 Digital Inclusion54:03 How Urbanization is impacting Development in Africa1:02:00 We Build on Each Other’s Backs1:09:52 Final Remarks🗣️ More about our guest:Born and raised in Angola, Emerson Paim always wanted to explore the world. His search for knowledge and experience took him to Portugal and England, where he honed his skills, immersed himself in diverse cultures, and did all types of work. But, like an irresistible gravitational force, the call of his roots drew him back to Angola.Upon his return, a flame burned inside him: the flame of entrepreneurship. The "little bug," as he affectionately calls it, had been with him for a long time, whispering ideas and possibilities. And it was in this fertile soil of ambition and opportunity that Kubinga was born, which means "to ask" in Kimbundu.More than a mobility platform, Kubinga is a vibrant ecosystem that connects drivers and passengers, facilitates the delivery of food and goods, and offers mobile payment solutions. All of this is carefully adapted to the local reality, with affordable rates, cash payment acceptance, and operation in areas with limited internet.More than 100,000 users are already part of the community, and the platform is present in 5 provinces and boasts partnerships with renowned companies.The future of Kubinga is bright, with plans to expand to new provinces, launch new services, and consolidate the platform for mobility in Angola.Emerson Paim's story is an ode to entrepreneurship, an inspiring example that dreams can become reality with passion, persistence, and adaptability, transforming not only the dreamer's life but also that of an entire community.I invite you to join this journey, to be part of Kubinga, and to believe, like me, that dreams can move mountains!Follow Emerson Paim on social media:https://www.linkedin.com/in/eucp/Links and initiativeshttps://www.kubinga.com/Follow us on:https://www.africatechtalks.com/https://www.youtube.com/@africatechtalkshttps://twitter.com/afri_techtalkshttps://www.instagram.com/africatechtalks/https://www.linkedin.com/company/africa-tech-talksIvo Martins - https://ivo-martins.comAndré Cavaco - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-cavacoManuel Pinto de Andrade - https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-pinto-de-andrade-69a03812/Victor Calhau - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vitor-calhau/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit africatechtalks.substack.com

In today's episode, we're delighted to introduce Nuno Aires, who is the founder and general director of Tequila, a marketing and communications agency based in Luanda, Angola. Disclaimer: This episode is entirely in Portuguese🎬 Full video: https://youtu.be/FS0YWotIRxY00:00 Intro01:37 Who is Nuno Aires04:37 The Tequila Project08:07 The power of AI in Marketing 13:39 The challenges of the Angolan consumer in the digital market20:15 How hard is it to retain clients37:12 Marketing, Publicity, Brand42:49 The Impact of Currency Devaluation in Small Companies51:00 Nuno’s Biggest Brand References59:00 Final Remarks and the Future of Tequila🗣️More about our guest:He founded Tequila in February 2023, after previous experiences as Director of Solutions at Innovation Makers and Deputy Director at Banco BCS.On social media, Nuno Aires shares insights about Tequila, such as the post "One Tequila a day, you don't even know how good it would do you ;)", reinforcing the relaxed and creative tone that the agency seeks to convey.Follow Nuno Aires on social media:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nunoaires/https://twitter.com/nunoaireshttps://linktr.ee/nunoairesLinks and initiativeshttps://www.instagram.com/TequilaAgencia This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit africatechtalks.substack.com

In today's episode, we're delighted to introduce Lisa Videira, an inspiring tech entrepreneur from Angola with a fascinating background as a former professional sportswoman.🎬Full video: https://youtu.be/WB6nvmlliKY00:00 Intro04:03 My journey07:55 The story of a winner17:57 Role of AASED and Purpose of the Organization23:24 The startup act for Angola31:34 Angolan Success Stories42:15 The Main Challenge of AASED55:02 Advices to entrepreneurs1:00:00 Final Remarks🗣️More about our guest:Lisa is the visionary behind LV Digital, Lda, a company dedicated to transforming e-learning accessibility in Angola. Her commitment to digital innovation extends to her role as the acting President of the Angolan Association of Startups and Digital Entrepreneurship (AASED), where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of digital entrepreneurship in the region. Lisa's entrepreneurial spirit also led her to launch Angola's first kitesurfing school, offering a unique 'free of charge' program for four years, further showcasing her dedication to sharing her passions and knowledge with others. Join us as we dive into Lisa's journey, exploring her contributions to technology, education, and sports in Angola.Follow Lisa Videira on social media:https://ao.linkedin.com/in/lisa-videiraLisa's links and initiatives:https://linktr.ee/lisa_videirahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/associa%C3%A7%C3%A3o-angolana-de-startups-e-empreendedorismo-digital-aased/https://www.aased.aohttps://www.linkedin.com/company/lv-digital-lda/Follow us on:https://www.africatechtalks.com/https://www.youtube.com/@africatechtalkshttps://twitter.com/afri_techtalkshttps://www.instagram.com/africatechtalks/https://www.linkedin.com/company/africa-tech-talksIvo Martins - ivo-martins.comAndré Cavaco - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-cavacoManuel Pinto de Andrade - https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-pinto-de-andrade-69a03812/Victor Calhau - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vitor-calhau This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit africatechtalks.substack.com

Today on our podcast, we're excited to welcome Mark Essien, a standout figure in the Nigerian tech scene. 🎬 Full video: https://youtu.be/lZyEcz-Gmvw00:00 Intro 01:03 Why he became an engineer06:53 File Sharing Software - His first successful product “exit”12:58 Good Products VS Good Markets15:33 Test your idea (market fit) based on real time world data (eg.: Google Keywords)26:08 HNG Internship - No coders available, how to turn a problem into an opportunity26:08 HNG Internship - When a problem creates opportunities38:00 How AI will change the future of work42:00 Crypto / CBDC’s and currencies in Nigeria49:00 Counting voting sheets in National Elections: Is there a better way?56:49 Lessons learned from the counting voting sheets initiative1:00:46 Mark's plans for the future? (Pivoting to Europe and India, cars.ng, travel.ng, etc.)🗣️More about our guest:Mark is the brains behind Hotels.ng, Nigeria's trailblazing online hotel booking platform. Born in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, on December 18, 1980, he's a successful entrepreneur, software developer, and startup investor. His work, particularly with Hotels.ng, has significantly advanced Africa's travel and hospitality sectors. Join us as we delve into Mark's journey and the impact of his innovations.Follow Mark Essien on social media:https://www.linkedin.com/in/markessien/https://twitter.com/markessienMark's other Links and initiativeshttps://hotels.ng/https://www.instagram.com/hotelsng/https://twitter.com/hotelsngFollow us on:https://www.africatechtalks.com/https://twitter.com/afri_techtalkshttps://www.instagram.com/africatechtalks/https://www.linkedin.com/company/africa-tech-talks This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit africatechtalks.substack.com

Our guest today, Luis Verdeja, is the CEO and co-founder of Jobartis, a job board and recruitment tech company.🎬 Full video: https://youtu.be/4-vA7nyabMQ00:00 Intro02:55 Luis Background and Vision of Jobartis07:28 The main role of Jobartis in the Angolan Market09:40 Starting a business requires motivation12:41 Boiling down the business14:00 How Jobartis uses technology to select people17:47 How remote work is an opportunity21:55 Self-learning capacity is the core skill for today’s workers36:02 Advice for job seekers43:45 How Jobartis is using its data to help the companies remain competitive in the talent search46:18 Resilience is the key for startups52:43 Final Remarks🗣️More about our guest:Luis is a university professor with an extensive resume; he worked as an Economic Affairs Consultant for the European Commission and Consultant for the SADC National Secretariat of the Angolan government on regional economic integration. He was the co-founder of Jobartis, and under his leadership, Jobartis has become Angola's number-one employment portal.Luis Verdeja is the CEO and co-founder of Jobartis, a job board and recruitment tech company. He has over 15 years of experience in executive positions, particularly in the digital sector. Under his leadership, Jobartis has become Angola's number-one employment portal.Follow Luis Verdeja on social media:https://es.linkedin.com/in/luisverdeja/enLinks and initiativeswww.jobartis.comhttps://www.facebook.com/jobartishttps://www.linkedin.com/company/jobartis/https://www.instagram.com/jobartisFollow us on:⁠⁠⁠https://www.africatechtalks.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/afri_techtalks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/africatechtalks/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/africa-tech-talks/⁠⁠⁠Ivo Martins - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivomartins/⁠⁠⁠André Cavaco - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-cavaco/⁠⁠⁠Manuel Pinto de Andrade - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-pinto-de-andrade-69a03812/⁠⁠⁠Victor Calhau - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vitor-calhau/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit africatechtalks.substack.com

Today's podcast guest is Morato Custódio, the founder of LWEI, a fintech company focused on financial inclusion for people outside the conventional financial system. Most recently, he contributed to Angola's new Startup Act, working closely with INAPEM - National Institute for the Support of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Angola.🎬 Full video: https://youtu.be/CtuXNwgfltI00:00 Intro03:00 Startup Law in Angola23:00 Incentives for Startups in Angola 36:00 How to protect investors from outside Angola44:52 Financial and Digital Inclusion57:00 We need smartphones flooding the market to leverage the change1:05:00 Morato vision on Bitcoin in Angola 1:17:00 Bitcoin Mining activity in Angola🗣️More about our guest:In 2017, he established a mobile phone assembly factory for low-cost smartphones based on a macroeconomic strategy seeking to boost the technology industry in Angola and generate thousands of jobs in the sector.In 2019, he launched a FreeNet project to advance digital and financial inclusion by providing free internet access with the purchase of an affordable smartphone. Morato is passionate about ensuring his community has access to platforms that support financial independence.Follow Morato Custódio on social media:https://www.linkedin.com/in/moratocustodio/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit africatechtalks.substack.com

Sérgio Lopes is the IT Director at BFA, one of the top tier Banks in Angola. 🎬 Full video: https://youtu.be/PHbeBBxAU7Q00:00 Intro 04:00 Sergio Lopes' background and experience08:42Challenges faced by the Angolan banking industry12:14 BFA's digital transformation journey32:30 Fundamental Elements to Improve Digital Inclusion in Angola40:27 Cyber security is core for the entire ecosystem1:05:02 Challenges for the Angolan digital and technological ecosystem01:06:34 Final Remarks🗣️More about our guest:With over 20 years of experience, he has driven revenue throughout his professional career by building and maintaining client relationships across various market sectors.As a leader, he believes in delegation, responsibility, and ownership as fundamental principles. The policies he implements encourage knowledge sharing amongst his team members. He is a dynamic and creative manager with a proven track record of entering new markets to ensure sustainable growth. His vision is ambitious, and he believes in embracing disruption to achieve success in his endeavors.Follow Sérgio Lopes on social media:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergio-lopes-a7962613/Follow us on:⁠⁠https://www.africatechtalks.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/afri_techtalks⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/africatechtalks/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/africa-tech-talks/⁠⁠Ivo Martins - ⁠⁠https://www.ivo-martins.comAndré Cavaco - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-cavaco/⁠⁠Manuel Pinto de Andrade - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-pinto-de-andrade-69a03812/⁠⁠Victor Calhau - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vitor-calhau/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit africatechtalks.substack.com