The Accessing the Global Creative Innovation in a Digital Economy panel at NECLive 2025 examined the role of diaspora markets and the global platforms that dominate digital content distribution. Dominique Ntirushwa noted that MTN’s new data center represents an important step in strengthening Africa’s technological backbone, especially for managing payments and distribution. He added that when revenue is collected, it must be distributed efficiently to ensure creators are not excluded from the benefits.
Funso Finnih observed that although African creators now fill event centers around the world, much of the value generated from digital platforms remains outside the continent. He argued that Africa must retain more value within its markets if the creative economy is to grow sustainably and consistently.
Panelists agreed that the diaspora remains a key audience but stressed the need for African companies to play a more active role in the payment and distribution systems that drive global content consumption.
