Building Africa’s Innovation Capacity
IETSA Background
The Institute of Emerging Technologies South Africa (IETSA) was founded with a clear mission: to prepare Africa for meaningful participation in the global digital economy.
Built through sustained leadership and a long-term vision for inclusive innovation, IETSA focuses on bridging the gap between emerging technologies and real economic opportunity. Our work centers on equipping individuals, professionals, and institutions with the knowledge and practical skills required to navigate and shape the future of technology.
IETSA operates at the intersection of education, innovation, and digital transformation. We are building a growing ecosystem of learners, partners, and industry stakeholders committed to unlocking Africa’s potential through future-focused skills and applied emerging technologies.
Our focus areas include Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Digital Infrastructure, Data Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and other frontier technologies shaping the next global economy. Through structured learning pathways, partnerships, and innovation-driven initiatives, IETSA is contributing to the development of digitally fluent talent capable of creating solutions, businesses, and sustainable opportunities.
As technology continues to redefine industries and societies, IETSA is committed to ensuring that African talent is not only prepared to use the future — but to help build it.
Our Vision
To accelerate Africa’s meaningful participation in the global digital economy through inclusive access to emerging technologies, future-focused skills, and innovation-driven opportunity.
Our Values
Excellence — We strive for high standards in learning, innovation, and delivery
Integrity — We operate with transparency, accountability, and ethical responsibility
Inclusion — We believe technology must expand participation, not deepen exclusion
Collaboration — We grow through partnerships that create shared value
Innovation with Purpose — We focus on technologies that solve real-world economic challenges
Empowerment — We equip people with the knowledge and confidence to shape their futures
Our Mission
- Drive the adoption of emerging technologies across industries to unlock sustainable economic opportunity
- Develop future-ready skills through accessible, high-impact learning programs
- Build digital fluency in Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Data, IoT, and other frontier technologies
- Enable individuals and institutions to participate competitively in the evolving global economy
- Support innovation and entrepreneurship that address real socioeconomic challenges
- Create pathways for African talent to move from technology users to technology builders
- Partner with local and global stakeholders to expand access to digital opportunity
- Support digital transformation initiatives in both public and private sectors
Meet Our Team
Mpho Machaka
Founder & CEO
Visionary technology leader and ecosystem builder advancing Africa’s digital future through inclusive innovation, future-focused skills, and emerging technologies that unlock sustainable economic growth and long-term societal impact.
Raj Kapoor (Founder of IBA)
Board Support Representative
Global blockchain and emerging technology advocate with extensive experience building international innovation ecosystems, industry alliances, and knowledge networks. Advises on strategic technology adoption, global partnerships, and ecosystem development to accelerate inclusive digital transformation and enterprise innovation.
Marie Van Der Westhuizen
Financial Manager
Seasoned financial professional with over 30 years of experience in accounting, tax compliance, financial governance, and HR administration across diverse business environments. Provides strong financial oversight, regulatory alignment, people management support, and operational integrity to ensure sustainable growth and organizational stability.