Africa's untapped human potential and its access to next-gen technology will be up for discussion at AfricaCom 2019, scheduled for 12-14 November 2019 in Cape Town, South Africa.

In a statement the organisers say this topic, as well as obstacles like building a skills base and structural challenges required to develop Africa's digital ecosystem, have the power to propel the continent into owning its digital future.

"Connectivity is the backbone of all economic opportunities and hence, Africa's 'thrival' (beyond sustainability and survival to a thriving digitally enhanced continent). The connectivity track and exhibition Hall also explore and showcase what is required for the enablers of this desired thrival, the telcos, to become fully digital. Assisting in this evolution will be an entire plethora of emerging technologies," the statement continues.

These emerging technologies and their role in securing the continent's digital future will be the main theme for a scheduled panel discussion on 13 November.

According to organisers, Terryanne Chebet, General Manager, Metropol TV, will serve as moderator and will be joined by Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT & Innovation, Republic of Rwanda; Isabel dos Santos, Chair, UNITEL; Carole Wamuyu Wainaina, Chief Operating Officer, Africa50; Juliet Ehimuan, Country Director, Google Nigeria and Charlene Verzmoter, Head of Philanthropy, Microsoft.

Enterprise digital transformation is a key theme at this year's AfricaTech Centre Stage, a new show feature.

Other sessions lined up include:

• How is Artificial Intelligence transforming African business and how can it be used to elevate African economies?

• Cyber security and data privacy: Don't let rapid digital transformation and technology adoption become a double-edged sword!

"The Women in Tech track will also turn over key issues for women in the industry ranging from the need for diversity in AI, to challenging the "bro-culture" coined by KRS Software's chief executive officer Lorraine Steyn, on the challenges women face in breaking into the industry, staying in it or returning to it, as well as making the industry more attractive for women, as well as how to attract top women talent to the industry through offering remote and flexible working conditions," the organisers have stated.