TED Global is the ultimate hub of inspiration and human innovativeness, and it did not disappoint this time when it came to Africa. In what can be considered a colorful and creative battle of the creatives and innovates of the world, TED Global came to a successful completion after three days, August 27th and 30th, in Arusha, Tanzania. Some notable speakers included President of Rwanda Paul Kagame, entrepreneur and journalist Vimbayi Kajese, MIT professor Clapperton Chakanetsa Mavhunga, and popular Kenyan boy band and Afro-pop innovators, Sauti Sol. The main curator of TED, Chris Anderson, was present alongside Emeka Okafor, co-founder of Maker Faire Africa.
Highlights of the Event
The TED talks were quite serious, with a series of creative visions, jaw-dropping ideas, and difficult truths. The creative, beautiful and inspiring short videos strategically positioned between the 18 minute TED talks greatly punctuated the inspiring atmosphere. The initial lineup did not disappoint as it was a refreshing display of talent from across the African continent and beyond, the first talk was from Tanzania’s Minister for culture who spoke of the government’s determination in matters corruption. There were also stunning performances by artists such as Joshua Roman, Meklit Hadero, and Kasiva Mutua. The first session was jump-started by Qudus Onikeku’s dance tribe which moved the audience. Day three saw Sara Menker present issues surrounding agricultural production and the deficits we should expect if the agricultural system is not revolutionized. The fourth session saw more appeal to human logic with talks concerning Africa’s production, economy, and religion. The fifth session was also colorful as it was the combined brain work of visionaries, designers/scientists, and artists. The last session was opened by Sauti Sol, with their popular songs, “Live and Die in Africa,” “Kuliko Jana” and “Sura Yako”. Also gracing the session was the only female and Muslim president in Africa and the world respectively, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim of Mauritius.
What the Event means for the Future of the Nation
The event comes back to Tanzania after ten years. The first TED in 2007 was a resounding success that kindled hopes for a better Africa and planted a the hunger for success in the continent as a whole. It was an experience that sparked the conversations that Africa should have and thus, it will put the country in a position to know what works for them and what fails. The event inspired the need for success and helped set the pace for the country’s as well as the continent’s future. The thinkers and doers of Africa now have a chance to put their talent to work after this passionate display of what can happen if brilliant minds come together.
