Doha, August 24 (QNA) - Qatar Chamber participated in the first edition of the Sahel Tech Innovation Challenge (STIC'26) held in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, under the theme "Artificial Intelligence Solutions for Africa."
Focused on the theme "Artificial Intelligence Solutions for Africa," the summit brought together ministers, investors, and innovators from across the region. The inaugural edition drew over 600 project submissions from 23 African nations, targeting transformative tech solutions in agriculture, healthcare, education, and finance.
Qatar Chamber board member, Mohamed bin Mahdi Al Ahbabi, said that the Chamber's participation in the event reflects its commitment to strengthening engagement with business communities across Africa, exploring the opportunities offered by emerging technologies and AI, and highlighting their role in supporting economic development and environmental sustainability.
He pointed out that the participation provides an important opportunity to showcase the capabilities of the Qatari private sector, explore new avenues for cooperation in technology and digital transformation, and facilitate the exchange of expertise and experiences among companies and business leaders.
In turn, Qatar Chamber board member, Dr. Mohamed bin Jawhar Al Mohamed emphasized that STIC'26 reflects the rapid advancement of Africa's technology sector, pointing out that it confirms African youth possess the talent and capabilities required to develop innovative solutions, driving progress toward a more diversified and sustainable economy.
The Chamber's participation in this major event stems from its conviction that successful economic cooperation extends beyond traditional trade and investment, he said, stressing that true partnership requires exchanging knowledge, fostering innovation, building capacity, and creating new collaborative opportunities between business communities.
Dr. Al Mohamed further noted that technology, AI, and the digital economy represent promising avenues for cooperation between Qatar, Burkina Faso, and the wider African continent. In light of rapid global economic shifts, he highlighted the growing need for innovative digital solutions that boost productivity, elevate business competitiveness, and unlock fresh opportunities for young people.
He also highlighted the wide range of potential areas for cooperation between the Qatari private sector ant its counterpart from Burkina Faso, particularly in technology, AI, digital services, education, industry, logistics, entrepreneurship, and investment, urging investors and business leaders to view Africa as a genuine partner in shaping the future, citing its rich human capital, expanding markets, and substantial cross-sector opportunities. (QNA)