William Kamkwamba Urges Africa’s Youth to Turn Challenges into Innovation at IGCF 2025

Sharjah, UAE — September 2025 – At the International Government Communication Forum
(IGCF) in Sharjah, Malawian engineer and author William Kamkwamba delivered a stirring
call to action for Africa’s next generation of innovators. Known globally for building a
windmill from scrap materials to power his village at just 14 years old, Kamkwamba’s story
continues to ignite hope and ambition across the continent.
“Problems are not roadblocks—they are invitations to innovate, “We must prepare our
learners not just to memorize, but to solve.”
Kamkwamba emphasized the need for education systems in Africa to evolve—focusing
less on rote learning and more on nurturing creativity, resilience, and problem-solving
skills. .
His journey—from poverty in rural Malawi to global recognition—serves as a powerful
reminder that resourcefulness and determination can overcome even the harshest
circumstances. Kamkwamba’s windmill, built using bicycle parts and discarded
machinery, not only brought electricity to his village but also sparked a movement.
“Africa’s challenges are unique—but so is our ingenuity,” he said. “Let’s build solutions
that speak to our realities.”
Kamkwamba’s speech at IGCF aligns with a growing wave of African tech leaders,
including Zindi CEO Celine Lee, who are championing homegrown AI and engineering
solutions to tackle issues like climate change, energy access, and education.
As global tech giants like Microsoft and Google expand their footprint across Africa, voices
like Kamkwamba’s remind the world that true innovation often begins with a single
spark—in a village, in a classroom, or in the mind of a determined young dreamer.