African Influencers Told to Harness Digital Power for Transformation

Addis ababa: African digital influencers must unite their voices to accelerate the continent's transformation, according to Gemeda Olana, CEO of AGA Tech Enterprise. Gemeda made the remarks today during the opening of the inaugural African Social Media Influencers Summit in Addis Ababa.According to Ethiopian News Agency, Gemeda emphasized the significant role of social media influencers as educators, brand builders, tourism ambassadors, cultural diplomats, and authentic voices of the new African generation. He highlighted the impact of African digital creators in shaping public opinion, expanding economic opportunities, and presenting a confident image of Africa to the global community.Gemeda noted that influencers across the continent are playing an increasing role in reshaping narratives about Africa, inspiring young people, and bolstering the continent's position within the global digital economy. The summit gathered digital creators from various parts of Africa.The CEO of AGA Tech Enterprise stated that the African Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) was established with the ambition of becoming the continent's largest and most influential digital platform. He expressed that the summit aims to enhance collaboration among influencers, innovators, brands, and institutions across Africa.Gemeda explained that the summit's focus is not merely on gaining followers or creating viral content but on influence, impact, and shaping Africa's future through meaningful digital engagement. ASMIS aspires to be a strategic bridge connecting African creativity with global opportunities, linking untapped talent with investment, and connecting young creators with institutions that can support innovation and growth.He outlined the summit's goals to promote partnerships, knowledge sharing, digital entrepreneurship, tourism promotion, cultural pride, and a new era of authentic African storytelling. The participation of prominent African content creators, including Wode Maya, was praised as a testament to the growing i nfluence of digital creators in inspiring communities and future generations.Gemeda addressed the participants, underscoring the transformative potential of Africa's expanding digital ecosystem. He expressed gratitude to international guests, sponsors, government institutions, and supporting organizations for their investment in Africa's digital future and support for youth-led innovation and digital diplomacy.He further revealed plans to expand ASMIS into a premier annual African digital summit with broader continental participation and world-class standards. Plans to launch the African Social Media Influencers Awards next year were also announced, aiming to elevate Africa's digital industry on the global stage.Gemeda concluded his remarks by calling for stronger partnerships to transform Africa's digital landscape and nurture a new generation of fearless, globally competitive African digital leaders. He welcomed participants to Addis Ababa, describing Ethiopia as a gateway to the future of Africa's di gital power.