Africa does not need to create a new Silicon Valley, but can thrive through collaboration with Europe in particular, according to Mike Butcher, editor at large of TechCrunch.
Speaking at NetProphet in Cape Town, Butcher argued the South African technology sphere does not need to build a new dedicated Silicon Valley at home, but by creating links with the European tech sector could build a vibrant international ecosystem.
“We don’t have to create Silicon Valley in our backyard,” said Butcher, adding: “We’re better together”.
“Stop trying to build Silicon Valley. Build your own ecosystems and then link them,” Butcher advised.
“Build Silicon bridges.”
Butcher considered the number of characteristics that South Africa has which could facilitate an inter-continental presence. These include the small time difference between South Africa and Europe, as well as sharing English as the main working language.
These characteristics Butcher argues place South Africa in an ideal position to grow its tech presence globally without having to build a bespoke Silicon Valley-esque location.
