Proptech, the fusion of property and technology, is revolutionizing the real estate sector by enhancing development, management, and user experience. This transformation is particularly significant in Africa, where proptech adoption is nascent but holds substantial potential for those who act early.
As the API Summit 2024 nears, the industry is abuzz with anticipation for the Africa Proptech Forum (APF), the continent’s sole pan-African Proptech Summit, scheduled for September 20 at the Westin Hotel in Cape Town. Peter Clark, Managing Partner at REdimension Capital, emphasizes the transformative impact of technology on real estate management. “Technology and innovation are game-changers for the industry, improving operational performance, driving asset values, and promoting sustainability. APF provides vital insights into the evolving proptech landscape, keeping stakeholders informed and connected as technology reshapes the built environment.”
Waldo Marcus, Industry Principal at MRI Software SA and lead sponsor of APF, notes the proliferation of technology solutions in property management. He points out that the evolving regulatory and economic climates are driving property leaders to adopt flexible, scalable technologies to future-proof their businesses. “APF is essential for the growth and innovation of proptech, ensuring stakeholders stay updated and engaged in this fast-moving sector,” he says, highlighting MRI’s commitment to the event.
Kfir Rusin, Co-CEO of admyt and an event sponsor, adds that the real estate sector is shifting from traditional leasing to a focus on client experience and operational efficiency. “Proptech drives this change by facilitating seamless customer interactions, leveraging advanced data, and promoting sustainable, cost-effective operations. APF is crucial for connecting real estate tech firms, service providers, and landlords, pushing the industry forward and fostering innovation,” he explains.
Coinciding with the 15th Annual API Summit, the APF will explore proptech’s transformative impact on Africa’s real estate sector. The forum will bring together decision-makers from technology and real estate to discuss advancements and strategies under the theme ‘IMPACT.’ This year’s highlight is the APF Start-Up Competition, presented with Burstone, aimed at discovering and supporting innovative, early-stage African proptech companies. Graham Hutchinson, Managing Director, South Africa, Burstone Group, underscores the importance of innovation beyond technology. “It’s about client engagement, deal structuring, and cost management,” he notes.
The 2024 APF will provide a vital platform for exchanging ideas, forming partnerships, and shaping the future of African real estate, marking a significant milestone in the continent’s proptech evolution.
