Experts have highlighted the role of technologies, policies, and innovations in driving inclusive digital growth across the continent.

They also examined how scalable systems could empower individuals, businesses, and governments while laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and seamless connectivity for the next billion Africans joining the digital economy.

This was at Apex Network fifth anniversary celebration themed “The African Digital Economy: Building the Infrastructure for the Next Billion Users”.

Speaking at the event, Founder, Apex Network, Abraham Ifemela, reiterating the company’s commitment to simplifying digital finance for all Aficans, stated that the firm is positioned as a driver of accessible financial technology across the continent.

According to him, the role of digital economy in youth employment cannot be overemphasised as it created new ways for people to start making money online.

While encouraging young people to take advantage of opportunities in the crypto space, he acknowledged that regulation remains a challenge. He pointed out that authorities such as the Securities and Exchange Commission are “working on crypto licensing” and engaging with innovators to better understand the technology.

On the subject of artificial intelligence (AI), Ifemela was clear in his view that “it has done more good than harm”. He noted that AI tools allow innovators to solve problems more efficiently, cutting down the time previously spent researching multiple sources of information. According to him, AI can simplify complex information and make knowledge more widely accessible, even to those who might previously have been excluded due to cost or location.

He added that new technology builders should “first build in their local market before scaling”, revealing that Apex currently operates in over seven African countries but is focused on understanding compliance requirements across the continent before entering more regulated markets abroad.

Engineering Manager, Apex, James John James, addressed the impact of digital technology on the entertainment industry. He explained that the company is developing a “business suite” that will enable creators, entertainers, and businesses to accept payments in multiple formats, including cryptocurrency, traditional bank transfers, and other digital channels. He said this could help remove friction between finance and entertainment, opening up opportunities for creators to reach global audiences. On AI’s effect on creativity, James argued that “it is reshaping creativity, it makes you creative in prompt creation and amplifies ideas”.