Innovation Africa: Moving to the Technology Cluster Level of Analysis to Energize Transnational Communities

Michelle Amy Montague-Mfuni; Frances Fabian; Juanita Trusty

AFAM Biennial Conference, 5TH BIENNIAL CONFERENCE - Nigeria 2020

Michelle Amy Montague-Mfuni, Frances Fabian, Juanita Trusty

Last modified: 2019-08-02

Abstract

We propose that technology clusters are the ideal form for evolving technology innovation based on their ability to have firms devoted to learning for exploration from advanced technology centres and firms that focus on exploitation that is sensitive to African contexts within the innovation ecosystem. Further, we note the high likelihood of an increasing level of international ties from transnational communities that span these clusters. Our proposed conceptual model integrates insights from March’s elaboration of exploration and exploitation in organization learning (March, 1991), the springboard theory for emerging multinational enterprises (Luo & Tung , 2018), and the requirements for both absorptive capacity and disruptive innovation. We argue the necessary capabilities for a technology development that is inherently African will likely center around technology clusters that serve as fundamental players in marshalling capabilities for leading edge technology knowledge, and shepherding resources that reflect African values and imperatives.

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