Ntsako Mgiba on Building Africa’s Tech Future with Darkies in Tech

In the vibrant and fast-evolving world of South African technology, Ntsako Mgiba has emerged as a voice of vision and action. Founder of Darkies in Tech, Mgiba is on a mission to redefine what it means to be an African entrepreneur - not just by building successful companies, but by creating an ecosystem where talent, opportunity, and innovation can thrive together.

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I spoke with Mgiba recently, and what struck me immediately was his clarity of purpose. His journey is deeply personal, shaped by both the opportunities and the obstacles of growing up in South Africa. He described the challenges faced by tech startups in the region - from limited access to funding to cultural perceptions that often undervalue entrepreneurship as a career path - and how these hurdles demand resilience, ingenuity, and a relentless commitment to one’s vision. “Entrepreneurs don’t just need money,” Mgiba told me. “They need mentorship, networks, and a community that believes in them. That’s what can transform ideas into solutions that actually impact lives.” This philosophy is the cornerstone of Darkies in Tech, an organization he founded to support underrepresented founders, amplify voices, and create real pathways to success. The goal is not only to nurture individual startups, but to build a movement where collaboration and community drive Africa’s next wave of innovation.

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Our conversation also explored the intersection of technology and societal impact. Mgiba is passionate about the potential of AI, data, and emerging technologies, but he is clear-eyed about the work that remains: these tools must be applied to solving local challenges - from improving access to education and healthcare, to optimizing agriculture, infrastructure, and small business solutions. In his words, “Africa doesn’t need to copy anyone else. We have the creativity, the understanding of our markets, and the insight to create solutions that truly work for our people.” Throughout our discussion, I could sense the energy and optimism that Mgiba carries - a belief that African entrepreneurs are not just participants in the global tech conversation, but leaders who can shape it. He shared stories of founders who have struggled against the odds, only to succeed through sheer determination, ingenuity, and the support of networks like Darkies in Tech. These are the stories that inspire, the ones that remind us that entrepreneurship is as much about mindset as it is about capital or technology.

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By the end of our conversation, it was clear that Mgiba’s work goes beyond startups or tech initiatives. He is shaping a culture - one that values creativity, resilience, mentorship, and collaboration, and that celebrates the African entrepreneur as a problem solver, innovator, and leader. His vision is bold: a continent where talent is recognized, resources are accessible, and innovation is a shared journey. For those who are building, dreaming, and striving to make an impact, Ntsako Mgiba’s story is a blueprint, and an inspiration.

Three Takeaways for Entrepreneurs

1. Community is as critical as capital

Success in African tech isn’t just about funding; mentorship, networks, and a supportive ecosystem are essential for startups to thrive.

2. Innovation must solve local problems.

Technology and AI are powerful, but their real impact comes when applied to challenges that matter to African communities, from education to healthcare to small business solutions.

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3. Resilience and vision drive entrepreneurship 

African entrepreneurs face cultural and structural obstacles, but with determination, creativity, and collaboration, they can lead the continent’s next wave of global innovation.