Nokia is platinum sponsor @ DEMO Africa

Nokia today confirmed participation and support as the platinum sponsor for the first ever DEMO Africa to be hosted in Nairobi, Kenya in October this year.

ITRealmsOnline gathered that the newest addition to DEMO's Global Launch Programme, DEMO Africa 2012 will provide the most innovative new and established companies from across Africa the opportunity to launch their products on stage at this high profile event. It is also a platform for companies from outside the region to launch into the African marketplace.

Vice President, Nokia South and East Africa, Gerard Brandjes, says Nokia has a long and rich history on the African continent, stressing “Our core strength comes from our local presence, deep consumer understanding and the ability to ignite and enable the local innovation ecosystem. DEMO Africa is the perfect showcase for this innovation, and we are extremely proud of our association with this flagship event.”

Forty of Africa’s most innovative technology products, he said, will be launched at Demo Africa, even as the product categories include consumer electronics, web applications, mobile technology, social media, life sciences, sustainable and renewable energy.

“Only companies that exhibit innovation, impact and the ability to scale their ideas will be considered for this prestigious launch platform,” he hinted, pointing out that DEMO Africa is an opportunity for Nokia to showcase its commitment to the Liberalizing Innovation Opportunity Nations (LIONS@FRICA) partnership, as well as the continued focus on enabling the local ecosystem and adding value to consumers.

Also speaking, the Executive Producer, DEMO Africa, Mr. Harry Hare, says they were excited that Nokia has joined in the search for the next big thing out of Africa. 

“They have been a major player in this space and they will bring unprecedented value to the entire exercise," he said.

Nokia and DEMO are also members of Liberalizing Innovation Opportunity Nations (LIONS@FRICA) Partnership with the U.S. Department of State, Microsoft, African Development Bank and USAID. This is a new public-private alliance aimed at enhancing Africa's startup and innovation ecosystems. 

Remmy Nweke

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