How to sustain the innovation momentum post COVID-19

The global pandemic has sparked intense innovation activity in many African countries, leading to the creation of new solutions and opportunities. The key question now is how to maintain this momentum in the post-COVID-19 era. CNBC Africa recently spoke with Bitange Ndemo, a Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of Nairobi, to gain insights into this crucial topic. Ndemo highlighted that innovations often arise in response to challenges, much like a military attack where one must find ways to protect themselves. The crisis has spurred people to look inwards and innovate to address the pressing needs of their communities. However, sustaining this innovative spirit requires confidence and continued support for new ideas. Ndemo emphasized the importance of seizing the opportunities presented by the crisis to drive further innovation. He noted that the crisis has accelerated the development and adoption of new solutions, as the focus shifted towards rapid problem-solving rather than lengthy testing phases seen before. As a result, we are witnessing a wave of innovations entering the market at a faster pace. Ndemo expressed optimism that this newfound confidence and momentum can be maintained to drive sustained innovation post-COVID-19. Moreover, he highlighted the significance of local production and self-reliance, citing an example of a locally-made ICU bed that could potentially replace costly imports in the future. The disruption in global trade has prompted local businesses to create new products, spurring a 'learning curve' that can lead to enhanced quality and competitiveness in the international market. Looking ahead, Ndemo emphasized the role of government in fostering innovation ecosystems, such as setting up hubs where young entrepreneurs can collaborate and develop novel solutions across various sectors. He pointed to the success of such initiatives in the ICT sector in East Africa, which has led to a proliferation of tech solutions for agriculture, healthcare, and education. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, companies can infuse creativity and agility into their business models to adapt to the evolving post-pandemic landscape.