Cape Town: Africa’s Emerging Tech Powerhouse
Cape Town is quickly emerging as a key player in the technology sector in Africa, earning titles such as "Africa’s Tech Capital" and "Startup Capital of Africa." The city’s vibrant ecosystem of startups, incubators, and accelerators has been attracting significant investment and top talent from around the globe.
The Cape Town–Stellenbosch corridor is home to more than 450 tech firms, employing over 40,000 people, surpassing the combined tech ecosystems of Nairobi and Lagos. With nearly 60% of South Africa’s startups based in Cape Town, companies like Yoco, Aerobotics, SweepSouth, and JUMO are leading the innovation charge.
One of the key factors contributing to Cape Town’s tech success is its extensive open-access fibre network, boasting one of the largest in Africa with internet penetration reaching 63%. The city also nurtures innovation through a network of over 30 co-working spaces and 22 active incubators and accelerators, including the Cape Innovation and Technology Initiative (CiTi), which has supported the growth of over 2,000 businesses since its inception in 1999.
Furthermore, top-tier universities like the University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University play a significant role in shaping a skilled workforce, with Cape Town hosting 38% of South Africa’s developers.
Cape Town has attracted substantial foreign direct investment, particularly in software and IT services. The city has also gained global recognition by hosting major events like the Earthshot Prize Week, showcasing its commitment to promoting environmental innovation.
With its dynamic ecosystem, robust infrastructure, and international acclaim, Cape Town is on track to solidify its position as Africa’s leading tech hub.
Source: Cape Town Etc
