Mbeki gets standing ovation at ICT awards
Former President Thabo Mbeki received a standing ovation from a huge crowd at Emperor’s Palace during the 10th African ICT Achievers Awards on Friday.
Mbeki won the Lifetime Achievement Award, an accolade given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the ICT industry across the continent and whose efforts have impacted on both policy and the lives of ordinary people.
Dr Henry Chasia , Nepad e-Africa Commission executive deputy chairman applauded Mbeki’s contribution to the development of ICT in Africa; he said, “In 1991, Mbeki addressed the telecoms authority in the country about transformation – at a time when it was still difficult to find a black person or a woman in the room. His initiatives have led to the fruits which we are now all experiencing. He has inspired many policies and in 1998, South Africa had the first woman sitting on the ITU council. Under his leadership, South Africa was recognised by the ITU for having the fastest developing ICT industry on the continent,” he said.
The awards were organised by ForgeAhead, in partnership with the Department of Communications, the State IT Agency and EOH – to recognise companies and individuals who have had a significant impact on the ICT industry in Africa.
By ItnewsAfrica.com
