Technology is usually described as the purposeful application of information in the design, production, and utilization of goods and services, and in the organization of human activities. Over the past few decades, it has become the main driver of many human activities and economies.
1.Computers
A lot of sophisticated definitions have emerged for this magical device which has the capabilities of facilitating many life processes in a very fast and convenient way. It is said to be a programmable machine. This is because it acts on a specific set of instructions in a well-defined manner and it can also execute prerecorded list of instructions which is technically termed, a program. The computer was introduced in Africa somewhere in the late 70’s but the first models were being used elsewhere in the world a bit earlier than that. In Africa, the computer is by far the basic device for every home or office these days. Almost every work is now done by the use of the computer and it’s contribution to African development cannot be overemphasized. From research to implementation, nearly every process now involves the use of a basic computer.
2.Smart phones
Who in Africa doesn’t own a mobile phone these days? Nearly everyone owns a phone now. The significant difference is that some are just ordinary monophonic phones while others are quite complex smartphones. These gadgets aside their many benefits are now being integrated with complex applications that help an individual to productively undertake several activities. It is advanced to the extent that people now check their heartbeat rates, bank account balances and make reservations online via the use of the internet. Smart phones have also made social media very popular. Together with computers, they make things much more comfortable.
3.The Internet
Arguably the most telling technological creation to ever hit mankind, the Internet is a global network connecting millions of computers. It is estimated that more than 190 countries are linked into exchanges of data, news and opinions. No one actually owns the Internet, and no single person or organization controls the Internet in its entirety. The Internet is more of a concept than an actual tangible entity, and it relies on a physical infrastructure that connects networks to other networks. Although the internet was born in the mid to late 1980’s, it didn’t gain grounds in Africa until the late 90’s and the turn of the millennium. That notwithstanding, it has contributed immensely to development of many economies as businesses now thrive on internet access and many sectors now heavily rely on internet access to operate. The introduction of internet to Africa has therefore been very beneficial and continues to impact the lives of many more around the globe.
4.Televisions
A device that provides so much entertainment, news and information. The invention and benefits of this wonder of the world is quite amazing. Few inventions have had as much effect on contemporary African society as television. Popularly referred to as ‘’TV’’, televisions gained grounds in Africa in the late 80’s and early 90’s. However not every household had a television set then. In the late 90’s and early 2000’s, many more households and individuals purchased television sets. Quite recently, offices, recreational centres and even some churches now have and use televisions for daily operations. Many modifications have been made with some companies producing high spec LCD, LED, borderless and curved TV’s. They are used mainly for entertainment although many more people use it as a source of information and news.
5.Social Media
Social media is also referred to as digital technology. As it’s name suggests, it is purely a vast range of media channels which utilize the social concept of engagement while disseminating information, growing businesses and developing relationships. Very notable social media channels include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, Linkedin among others. They have now become very important marketing tools and their levels of output are simply breathtaking. If you want your product or service to be heard about or seen quickly, put it out on social media. The results are overwhelming. Nearly every business is now online and on social media because it is believed that, social media is where amazing businesses grow.
Although other interesting and mind blowing technologies have emerged over the years, these 5 stand out as having impacted the growth of African businesses. It is the hope of every African that more great inventions in technology emerge that will help rocket the development of this blessed continent.
