Reclaiming Africa‘s Technological Future: Makerere University Partners with SoonPay to Empower a New Generation of Innovators
Kampala, Uganda – A compelling call to action resonated at Makerere University recently, as Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe urged students to embrace innovation as the key to unlocking Africa’s potential and reclaiming its past position as a global leader in knowledge and technology. The address, delivered alongside the unveiling of SoonPay’s new blockchain-integrated platform, signals a pivotal moment for the continent’s digital future.
For too long, Africa’s narrative has been one of catching up. But Prof. Nawangwe powerfully reframed this outlook, reminding attendees of a rich history often overlooked. He traced a lineage of African innovation back to the 8th century, highlighting the profound impact of the Moors in Spain – introducing advanced architecture, engineering, and learning systems centuries before similar advancements appeared in Europe. ”They were the first to introduce stone-building technology there,” he explained,contrasting it with the mud-and-wattle structures prevalent in many parts of Africa even today.
However, this period of influence was tragically interrupted. Prof. nawangwe meticulously outlined the devastating impact of centuries of disruption - the expulsion of the Moors, the transatlantic slave trade, and the subsequent era of colonial rule. “For a total of 600 years, Africa’s civilisation and technology were completely destroyed,” he stated, emphasizing the long-term consequences of this historical trauma.
But the narrative isn’t one of solely past loss. Prof. Nawangwe is adamant that Africa is now at a critical turning point. With most African nations achieving independence only 60-70 years ago, the prospect to rebuild and redefine the continent’s trajectory is within reach. “What will liberate us from poverty is education, research and innovation. Nothing else,” he declared, placing these pillars at the heart of Africa’s future prosperity.
A Obligation to Transform
This message resonated deeply with the students of Makerere University, the continent’s oldest and most prestigious institution. Prof. Nawangwe challenged them to recognize their unique position – as ”the cream of Africa” – and embrace the responsibility to drive transformative change. He cautioned that Africa’s burgeoning youth population, while a potential demographic dividend, could also become a source of instability if not channeled into productive innovation.
“These young people will either innovate and change Africa for the better, or destroy it if they are just waiting for jobs that are not there,” he warned, advocating for a shift in mindset from job-seeking to job-creating. He further addressed concerns about graduate employability,arguing that the core issue isn’t a skills gap,but a lack of robust industries to absorb and utilize talent.
SoonPay and the Blockchain Revolution
This call for innovation found a concrete partner in SoonPay, a fintech company poised to empower the next generation of african technologists. CEO frantz Morency unveiled the company’s new platform,a “resource app” integrating financial tools with the power of blockchain technology.
“We call it a resource app not only from a financial standpoint,but also blockchain,which is why we’re here today with Makerere University,” Morency explained. The partnership with Makerere is strategic, aiming to equip students with the practical blockchain skills needed to drive adoption across various sectors.
The initiative seeks to expand the use of blockchain-based solutions, empowering both institutions and young people with the tools necessary to thrive in the evolving digital economy. Morency highlighted the importance of hands-on experience, stating, “It’s one of these blockchains,” and emphasizing SoonPay’s commitment to providing students and developers with exposure to the technologies reshaping global finance and digital systems.
The urgency of this collaboration was underscored by Prof. Nawangwe’s observation at a recent international conference: over half of the participants discussing artificial intelligence were Africans living abroad.This highlights the risk of Africa being left behind in the digital revolution – a scenario he is resolute to avoid. “We don’t want history to repeat itself. We want to move with the world and eventually lead the world, as we once did,” he concluded.
A future Forged in Innovation
The partnership between Makerere University and soonpay represents more than just a technological collaboration; it’s a powerful statement of intent. It’s a commitment to reclaiming Africa’s technological heritage, empowering its youth, and building a future where innovation isn’t just a goal, but a driving force for progress and prosperity.
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