EAST LONDON– The Eastern Cape’s digital future took centre stage on Wednesday as the 20th Annual Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Summit opened its Day 1 conference at the East London International Convention Centre(EL ICC) on 26 November 2025. Delegates, innovators, government representatives and industry leaders gathered to accelerate the province’s technological advancement and chart the next chapter of its digital transformation.
The milestone summit, now celebrating two decades of impact brought together technology stakeholders from across the province and beyond.
Eye‑catching exhibitions from digitally driven organisations and future‑focused enterprises lined the venue, each showcasing solutions contributing to the Eastern Cape’s growing technological capability.
Guided by the theme ‘Nathi SiConnected‘, the summit aims to strengthen collaboration, unlock new opportunities and highlight why digital technology remains central to driving inclusive economic growth.
Opening the event Executive Chairperson of Nozolile Capital, Motse Mfuleni reflected on the summit’s two‑decade journey. “We are very glad that you could make it to celebrate 20 years of this summit which led us in the direction that we have taken over the 20 years of transformation and collaboration in the world of ICT. Today we realise that it’s not about us, but it’s about the people of this beautiful continent of Africa. So we truly appreciate you for being in this journey.”
Adding to the conversation on Africa’s evolving digital landscape Chief Executive Officer for South Africa and Botswana Markets at Cassava Technologies, Ziad Suleman, emphasised the interconnected layers of digital systems. “We need multiple layers of technology such as hardware, computers, software and applications but what is more important is how we get output out of those, especially with the evolving time of artificial intelligence(AI) and the Fourth Industrial Revolution(4IR).”
Furthermore representing the Eastern Cape provincial government Chief Information Officer in the office of the Premier Nation Madikiza, stressed that reliable internet access remains fundamental to digital transformation. “Connectivity is the backbone. Without reliable broadband whether in Mthatha, Lusikisiki or East London digital transformation is theoretical. We must accelerate fibre rollout, expand 5G and ensure rural connectivity.”
He further highlighted the need for increased ICT investment and stronger cross‑departmental collaboration, pointing out that digital transformation demands more than the current expenditure levels.
In addition from a municipal perspective, Programme Manager at Innovation South Africa Cities Network, Rebecca Gatang underscored the growing importance of data governance. “Our municipalities’ data is no longer a technical by‑product it is a strategic asset. When cities manage their data well, they gain the ability not just to respond to challenges, but to anticipate them. That can assist them to deliver better services to communities.”
As the summit moves into its second day, stakeholders remained unified in their commitment to building a digitally inclusive Eastern Cape one where innovation and opportunity are accessible to all residents, not only to those in major urban centres.
The collective voices of industry leaders, government executives and young innovators echoed a shared message; connectivity, collaboration and continuous investment are essential pillars for meaningful digital transformation.
Celebrating 20 years of progress, this year’s ICT Summit serves as a reminder that the province’s digital future relies on sustained partnerships across sectors.
With ‘Nathi SiConnected’ resonating through every discussion, the event reinforces a unified vision where technology becomes a catalyst for empowerment, economic participation and long‑term development for communities across the Eastern Cape.
Photographs: supplied
