Erudite Series on the future of Africa: Leapfrogging
The impact of leapfrogging and large infrastructure build on Africa’s development potential
-
Date: 25 August 2023
-
Time: 11h30 – 12h30 CAT (UTC+2)
-
Venue: Online via Zoom
Overview
The Leapfrogging scenario shows the potential impact of modern technology such as digital mobile communications, drones and widespread use of a decentralised renewable energy system to unlock more rapid economic growth and steadily crowd larger sections of Africa’s large informal sector into the formal economy. Africa’s current economic infrastructure deficit and its impact on the continent’s development outlook will also be explored and a combined scenario presented.
This seminar is co-hosted by AUDA-NEPAD and the Institute for Security Studies (ISS).
Read the full Leapfrogging report here.
Read the Large Infrastructure report here.
Moderator: Nyiko Khoza, Head of Private Sector Engagement at the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD)
Presenters:
Dr Jakkie Cilliers, Head, African Futures & Innovation, ISS
Dr Blessing ChIpanda, Senior Researcher, African Futures & Innovation, ISS
Panellists:
Freda Yawson, Senior Manager, Infrastructure & Innovation, African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET)
Arhin Acheampong, Deputy Director, Afro-Sino Center of International Relations (ASCIR)
More to explore
05 Feb 2026
South Africa’s future cities: facing up to hard choices
Considering the harsh reality revealed by long-term trajectories, how feasible are the country’s current urban plans?
05 Jan 2026
Year-end 2025
AFI will reopen on Monday, 5 January 2026
08 Jul 2025
South Africa’s future in a changing world: the GNU’s two options
The Government of National Unity presents opportunities for reform, even amidst global uncertainty.
11 Nov 2025
Mobilising Africa’s financial flows for development
How can Africa navigate disinvestment and diversification to secure sustainable development finance in a shifting world order?