Case Studies on various approaches to using Technology as a driver for African Development

Abstract

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has been largely left behind in the last century's race for development. This thesis explores the connection between innovation and standard of living in the context of technology. We address the question: What can be learned from current efforts to use technology to resolve real-life issues encountered by Africans, and how can this be applied in new contexts?

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has been largely left behind in the last century's race for development. This thesis explores the connection between innovation and standard of living in the context of technology. We address the question: What can be learned from current efforts to use technology to resolve real-life issues encountered by Africans, and how can this be applied in new contexts? Initially we conduct a broad overview of the situation in SSA, concentrating on the areas of health, clean water, power and transport infrastructure. By studying two specific companies, Zipline and Desert Rose working respectively in the fields of drone distribution and water filtration, we examine their approaches to the African market, the needs which they address and their chosen solutions to meet those needs. Finally, we propose our own project, to establish a solar panel factory using the principles which we have discovered, selecting the optimum country and conducting a brief study into feasibility. The principles established in the paper relate to the need for innovation, a careful choice of country in which to locate, the use of robust designs and the importance of working closely with Africans. These are of value to investors in the continent, and those considering humanitarian work through the medium of business. Taking them into consideration can help challenge the way we approach sustainable development, prioritising the inclusion of Africans in the process.