Igniting Africa’s Innovation Renaissance: Empowering Traditional Title Holders for Transformation

The fusion of culture and innovation often goes unnoticed in African societies, while traditional titleholders are often overlooked. This has hindered the development of African institutions and societies, leaving behind a critical mass. However, a recent workshop in Oye-Ekiti aimed to change this narrative by enlightening these leaders about their crucial role in fostering innovation within their communities.

Led by Segun Oke, a visionary MIT and Hult-trained Chartered Accountant, Social Entrepreneur, and President of Bridgewaters Foundation, the workshop aimed to equip traditional title holders with the necessary knowledge to recognize their significance in accelerating the innovation economy within their domains. Oke emphasized that Nigeria and Africa have missed out on exponential progress by disregarding cultural structures and neglecting to empower traditional systems and their custodians.

The workshop showcased the historical innovation of the old Oye Kingdom, establishing a cultural connection with innovation and educating participants on emerging trends, drivers of innovation, the role of culture in fostering innovation, the mindset of an innovative leader, and how traditional title holders can contribute to fostering an innovative society. The traditional chiefs were thrilled by this capacity-building exercise and expressed gratitude for the innovation.

The session concluded with participants advocating for the expansion of such projects to include youths and leaders beyond their immediate community. The engaging discussions revealed Africa’s potential for greatness when cultural structures and traditional holders are actively involved in the conversation about innovation. This marks an exciting era for Africa, where the synergy of innovation and cultural richness can be harnessed to transform the continent.

Segun expressed optimism that by empowering ignored custodians of cultural heritage and authority across all spectrums through similar capacity-building sessions, the continent can foster innovation and abundance. Moreover, these interactions will raise the consciousness and performance expectations traditional title holders demand from their political leaders, ultimately raising the bar for Africa’s development.

Segun Oke

Visionary MIT and Hult-trained Chartered Accountant, Social Entrepreneur, and President of Bridgewaters Foundation is based in Lagos, Nigeria