Public Management (522)
Digital transformation has disrupted every sector, including the labor market. By 2030, more than 230 million jobs in sub-Saharan Africa will require digital skills.
The Togolese government has unveiled a plan to train 15,000 students from public universities in computer programming and artificial intelligence (AI) this year. This initiative is part of a broader program launched earlier this month in partnership with U.S.-based startup Kira Learning, which aims to eventually train 50,000 students annually. The program's ultimate goal is to boost youth employability.
In addition to teaching Python programming and AI fundamentals, the curriculum includes practical training in English. The course is entirely free and accessible online, combining interactive lessons, instructional videos, and hands-on exercises. It is supported by an AI-powered virtual tutor capable of delivering personalized guidance to learners.
“This training opens the door to real job opportunities, even for students outside of scientific disciplines. In just three months, a humanities or literature student could qualify for roles such as IT support technician, digital project assistant, junior webmaster, content moderator, or data annotator for AI,” the Ministry of Digital Economy and Digital Transformation explained in a statement.
The initiative comes amid a continent-wide shift driven by digital transformation. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) estimates that by 2030, over 230 million jobs in sub-Saharan Africa will require digital competencies.
In Togo, public universities in Lomé and Kara enroll around 100,000 students. The country also has a notably young population: according to the World Bank, 60% of its 8 million citizens are under the age of 25. While the official unemployment rate stands at just 1.7%, widespread underemployment continues to undermine household financial stability. The World Bank notes that visible underemployment—jobs with fewer than 35 hours per week—affects 60% of the workforce.
Despite its promise, the program has limitations. By targeting only public university students, it excludes thousands from private institutions. Moreover, while the program is free, access can still be hindered by practical barriers such as internet costs and a lack of essential devices like computers, tablets, or smartphones.
Nonetheless, the initiative represents a significant step toward equipping Togo’s youth with the digital skills increasingly demanded by today's job market.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Ghana’s digital economy is growing rapidly, with increasing reliance on fintech, e-commerce, and digital transactions. Strong legal frameworks are essential to protect businesses and consumers from cyber threats and ensure compliance with international data protection standards.
Ghana’s Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations (MoCDTI) has announced plans to introduce 15 new digital laws aimed at strengthening cybersecurity, data protection, and digital economy regulation. The announcement was made on June 8 during a two-day workshop with Parliament’s Select Committee on Information and Communications, where the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and collaboration in shaping the country’s digital future.
The proposed laws will focus on several critical areas, including cybersecurity regulations, data protection, and digital economy governance. As cyber threats continue to evolve, Ghana needs a robust legal framework to safeguard businesses and individuals from digital risks. The cybersecurity laws will enhance protections against cyberattacks, ensuring compliance with global security standards and reinforcing national resilience against digital threats. Additionally, the data protection laws will strengthen privacy rights, regulating how personal and corporate data is collected, stored, and used. With the increasing reliance on digital transactions, these measures will provide citizens with greater control over their information while ensuring businesses adhere to ethical data practices.
Another key aspect of the legislative agenda is the governance of Ghana’s digital economy. As fintech, e-commerce, and digital transactions become more prevalent, clear policies are needed to regulate these sectors effectively. The new laws will establish guidelines for digital financial services, ensuring consumer protection and fostering innovation.
Institutional reforms are also a major focus of the proposed legislation. One of the most significant changes discussed at the workshop is the transformation of the National Information Technology Agency (NITA) into a purely regulatory body. Currently, NITA operates both as a regulator and a service provider, which can create conflicts in governance. Under the new framework, its service-provider functions and government IT assets will be transferred to a separate entity, ensuring a clearer distinction between regulation and service delivery. This transition is expected to improve efficiency, streamline operations, and enhance oversight of Ghana’s digital infrastructure.
With Ghana’s digital economy expanding rapidly, these laws are essential for protecting citizens and businesses from cyber risks, encouraging investment in technology, and ensuring compliance with international data protection standards. The Ministry’s proactive approach signals a strong commitment to fostering innovation while maintaining security and accountability in the digital space.
The proposed laws will be rolled out in phases for parliamentary review, allowing for thorough discussions and stakeholder engagement. As Ghana positions itself as a regional digital leader, these legislative reforms will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s tech-driven future, ensuring that policies and infrastructure developments support sustainable growth and innovation.
Ghana has been actively developing laws to regulate and strengthen its digital economy. These laws aim to enhance consumer protection, regulate digital transactions, and ensure compliance with international standards. The country has existing digital laws such as the Electronic Transactions Act (2008), which grants legal recognition for electronic records, and the Payment Systems and Services Act (2019), which regulates digital financial services. The Cybersecurity Act (2020) established the Cybersecurity Authority, ensuring national security against cyber threats.
Hikmatu Bilali
In fifteen years, technological advances have reshaped the telecom and digital markets in Africa, creating both opportunities and challenges. However, the inadequacy of regulations hinders harmonious growth, limiting the sector’s full potential and its economic impact.
In 2024, ten African countries reached the highest level of regulatory maturity in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT) and digital governance. Among them, Burkina Faso and Senegal joined the G3 category, alongside several countries from Europe, America, and Asia. This level corresponds to a regulatory ecosystem conducive to investment, innovation, and universal access. On its platform https://app.gen5.digital/, consulted on June 3, 2024, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reveals that they are now just a few points away from the G4 level, the highest, which characterizes integrated regulation aligned with economic and social development goals.
Top 10 African countries with the best ICT regulatory ecosystem
|
No. |
Country |
Points 2024 |
Level 2024 |
Points 2023 |
Level 2023 |
|
1 |
Kenya |
93 |
G4 |
71.91 |
G3 |
|
2 |
Nigeria |
92 |
G4 |
64.81 |
G2 |
|
3 |
South Africa |
88 |
G4 |
69.29 |
G2 |
|
4 |
Malawi |
87.50 |
G4 |
59.57 |
G2 |
|
5 |
Egypt |
87 |
G4 |
69.29 |
G2 |
|
6 |
Rwanda |
85.67 |
G4 |
63.58 |
G2 |
|
7 |
Morocco |
85.50 |
G4 |
58.49 |
G2 |
|
8 |
Uganda |
85 |
G4 |
55.56 |
G2 |
|
9 |
Burkina Faso |
84 |
G3 |
48.77 |
G2 |
|
10 |
Senegal |
82.67 |
G3 |
50 |
G2 |
Source: ITU
In its G5 framework, the ITU ranks 193 countries according to four levels of regulatory maturity, assessed through 70 indicators grouped into four pillars: national collaborative governance; policy design principles; digital development tools; political agenda for the digital economy. The index, scored out of 100 points, distinguishes four levels of regulatory maturity:
- G1 (limited): 0–40 points – Monopolistic markets, authoritarian approach
- G2 (intermediate): 40–70 points – Partial liberalization and privatization
- G3 (advanced): 70–85 points – Environment conducive to innovation and competition
- G4 (leader): 85–100 points – Harmonized regulation, driver of digital transformation
Progress, but not enough
Between 2023 and 2024, African countries made significant progress in their ICT regulation. The Covid-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst, revealing as early as 2020 the urgency of digital transformation but also the regulatory gaps to be filled, particularly in spectrum management reform and digital services taxation.
The results are visible today. Most African countries ranked G1 and G2 in 2023 have moved up to G3. Only three countries still show a very low level of regulatory maturity, a sign of positive momentum.
Although this evolution is commendable, it still falls short of the targets set by the ITU: achieving G4 level for the majority, to ensure a digital economy that serves the continent's socio-economic development. To achieve this, it is imperative to invest in institutional capacities, strengthen regional cooperation, and adopt inclusive policies so that digital benefits everyone.
By Muriel EDJO,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Ranking of African countries
|
No. |
Country |
Points 2024 |
Level 2024 |
Points 2023 |
Level 2023 |
|
11 |
Liberia |
82.33 |
G3 |
41.82 |
G2 |
|
12 |
Botswana |
82 |
G3 |
55.09 |
G2 |
|
13 |
Tanzania |
81.67 |
G3 |
55.25 |
G2 |
|
14 |
Ghana |
81 |
G3 |
64.20 |
G2 |
|
15 |
Mauritius |
80.50 |
G3 |
62.81 |
G2 |
|
16 |
Seychelles |
79.50 |
G3 |
20.37 |
G1 |
|
17 |
Eswatini |
79 |
G3 |
48.92 |
G2 |
|
18 |
Zambia |
78.33 |
G3 |
49.07 |
G2 |
|
19 |
Guinea |
76.33 |
G3 |
33.80 |
G1 |
|
20 |
Tunisia |
75.83 |
G3 |
39.35 |
G1 |
|
21 |
Angola |
75.67 |
G3 |
28.55 |
G1 |
|
22 |
Cameroon |
75.67 |
G3 |
38.27 |
G1 |
|
23 |
Sudan |
75.50 |
G3 |
59.10 |
G2 |
|
24 |
Comoros |
74.17 |
G3 |
30.56 |
G1 |
|
25 |
Cape Verde |
74 |
G3 |
50 |
G2 |
|
26 |
Côte d'Ivoire |
74 |
G3 |
50 |
G2 |
|
27 |
Gambia |
72.67 |
G3 |
41.36 |
G2 |
|
28 |
São Tomé and Príncipe |
72.67 |
G3 |
27.62 |
G1 |
|
29 |
Togo |
71.67 |
G3 |
43.83 |
G2 |
|
30 |
Lesotho |
70.50 |
G3 |
28.86 |
G1 |
|
31 |
Mozambique |
70.50 |
G3 |
22.22 |
G1 |
|
32 |
Zimbabwe |
70.33 |
G3 |
56.94 |
G2 |
|
33 |
Benin |
70 |
G3 |
67.59 |
G2 |
|
34 |
DR Congo |
70 |
G3 |
41.82 |
G2 |
|
35 |
Namibia |
68.67 |
G2 |
34.88 |
G1 |
|
36 |
Niger |
68 |
G2 |
40.59 |
G2 |
|
37 |
Mali |
67 |
G2 |
44.91 |
G2 |
|
38 |
Algeria |
66 |
G2 |
50.93 |
G2 |
|
39 |
Mauritania |
66 |
G2 |
44.29 |
G2 |
|
40 |
Gabon |
64 |
G2 |
29.78 |
G1 |
|
41 |
Sierra Leone |
61.17 |
G2 |
38.27 |
G1 |
|
42 |
Burundi |
60.67 |
G2 |
26.70 |
G1 |
|
43 |
Chad |
58.67 |
G2 |
41.36 |
G2 |
|
44 |
Central African Rep. |
53.50 |
G2 |
26.54 |
G1 |
|
45 |
South Sudan |
53.17 |
G2 |
||
|
46 |
Ethiopia |
52 |
G2 |
50.62 |
G2 |
|
47 |
Somalia |
50.50 |
G2 |
22.22 |
G1 |
|
48 |
Guinea-Bissau |
50.33 |
G2 |
26.85 |
G1 |
|
49 |
Equatorial Guinea |
50 |
G2 |
17.59 |
G1 |
|
50 |
Eritrea |
14 |
G1 |
8.33 |
G1 |
|
51 |
Libya |
12.67 |
G1 |
3.70 |
G1 |
|
52 |
Djibouti |
4.50 |
G1 |
23.15 |
G1 |
Source: ITU
Regulatory Maturity Categories (ITU G5 Framework):
- G1 (limited): 0–40 points
- G2 (intermediate): 40–70 points
- G3 (advanced): 70–85 points
- G4 (leader): 85–100 points
• Algeria to link labor and training ministry platforms in digital push
• New system enables real-time data sharing to align jobs and skills
• Move supports “Digital Algeria 2030” and youth workforce integration
Algeria is intensifying its digital transformation efforts by integrating public information systems with the Ministries of Labor and Vocational Training. On Thursday, May 29, both ministries signed to interconnect their digital platforms to harmonize training and employment policies nationwide.
The agreement provides for the establishment of an integrated system designed to facilitate the instant and secure exchange of data between the two ministries' digital platforms. The objective is to develop advanced planning and forecasting tools, enhancing coordination between vocational training and employment to meet market demands and foster a modern, skills-based economy built on accurate data.
According to Labor Minister Fayçal Bentaleb (photo, center), the initiative aligns with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s directives, which advocate for an integrated approach to developing skills that match the labor market's needs. Bentaleb noted that over 516,000 unemployment allowance recipients have already been directed towards short-term training programs, with 263,000 having successfully obtained professional certification.
This partnership is also a crucial component of Algeria's national digital transformation strategy, "Digital Algeria 2030." This comprehensive strategy is built upon five key pillars: the development of core digital infrastructure, training and skills enhancement, and digital governance. The human capital dimension is central to this strategy, with a focus on training and integrating young people into digital and new technology professions.
Once operational, the interconnected system is expected to significantly improve the alignment between available training programs and the skills in demand on the labor market. Automated data exchange will enable more effective guidance for young people toward promising fields, while providing decision-makers with precise tools to anticipate the demand for skilled labor. Ultimately, this digital integration is projected to modernize public employment management, streamline professional integration, and accelerate Algeria's transition to a knowledge-based economy.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
• Minister George may adopt the “Asanka” device for the One Million Coders Program
• Asanka works offline, needs little power, and offers school content
• A pilot is planned, but no deal is signed yet
Samuel Nartey George (photo), Ghana's Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, is considering a collaboration with local tech company TECHAiDE. The minister believes that the "Asanka" device, a locally developed offline Learning Management System (LMS) unveiled on Thursday, May 29, could be instrumental in achieving the government's ambitious goal of training one million coders over four years.
"The partnership is expected to have a significant impact on education in Ghana as well as the One Million Coders Program, making it more accessible, effective, and cost-efficient," the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation stated in a press release published on its Facebook page. The potential collaboration also includes the construction of computer labs equipped with the device, which would grant students access to the system.
According to TECHAiDE's website, the "Asanka" device operates without requiring internet access, with users connecting to it via Wi-Fi. The portable unit consumes only 5 watts and can be powered by a USB charger, a power bank, or a solar panel. It offers a broad spectrum of content, including Ghanaian school curricula, Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) topics, educational websites, videos, e-books, UNESCO educational resources, and interactive games.
The adoption of this device could significantly simplify access to coding training for beneficiaries. For example, it would eliminate the need for users to purchase internet data plans, a particularly relevant advantage given recent consumer complaints about rising internet service costs in Ghana. The minister has even convened a meeting with telecom operators scheduled for May 30 to address this issue.
Currently, the collaboration remains in an exploratory phase. Although Minister George has expressed keen interest, no formal agreement has been signed or officially announced. TECHAiDE also plans to launch a pilot project to test and refine its solution, with a view toward broader adoption and integration into existing school programs. However, the use of the Asanka device necessitates a compatible terminal such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Access to such equipment, particularly in Ghana's rural areas, remains a potential barrier that could hinder the widespread rollout and utilization of the solution.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Reducing the cost of mobile data in Ghana is a significant step toward promoting digital inclusion, economic participation, and national development. For many Ghanaians, affordable internet access is not just a convenience but a necessity for education, e-commerce, financial services, and civic engagement.
Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has assured Ghanaians that the cost of mobile data will drop by the end of 2025. He said the Ministry is working closely with telecommunications stakeholders to make data more affordable.
Speaking during the 2025 World Telecommunication and Information Society Day on May 19, held under the theme "Gender Equality in Digital Transformation," the Minister reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on this promise.
“To the young people and all citizens of this country, I promised that by the end of this year, we’ll see data prices drop — and I remain committed to it. We will deliver, but trust the process,” he said.
His remarks follow recent public criticism on social media, where concerns were raised that a committee he established in February has not yet led to a reduction in data tariffs. The Minister clarified that the committee’s mandate was not to cut prices directly but to develop a strategic plan.
He urged the public to be patient, pointing to ongoing efforts to correct market imbalances caused by what he described as “eight years of policy distortions” under the previous administration.
The assurance comes at a time when high data costs continue to be a major concern for consumers and digital entrepreneurs alike. High data costs remain a major barrier to inclusive digital development, particularly in remote areas where infrastructure is weaker and incomes are lower.
According to recent market surveillance by the Billing Verification Unit of the National Communications Authority (NCA) published April 2024, the average cost of 1GB of data per month in Ghana is GH₵6.30 (approximately $0.61). The study further revealed that the cheapest 1GB package costs as little as GH₵1.08 ($0.10), while the most expensive reaches GH₵16.77 ($1.62). This wide disparity in pricing highlights the inconsistencies in data affordability across different service providers and regions, reinforcing the need for regulatory oversight and market reforms.
Hikmatu Bilali
• Morocco places AI at center of digital strategy, minister tells Parliament
• Plans include a new AI directorate, a UNDP-backed digital hub, and 12 regional Jazari Institutes
• Youth training programs to target ages 8–18 in digital and AI skills
Morocco is putting artificial intelligence (AI) at the forefront of its digital transformation efforts. Speaking before Parliament earlier this week, Minister Delegate for Digital Transformation and Administrative Reform, Amal El Fellah Seghrouchni, said the aim is to leverage digital tools to accelerate social and economic development.
The government plans several key initiatives, including the creation of a dedicated AI directorate and the launch of a regional Arab-African digital hub in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Additionally, a network of centers of excellence, dubbed the “Jazari Institute,” will be established across Morocco’s 12 regions.
Two national training programs targeting digital and AI skills for youth aged 8 to 18 are also in the works. To further unify efforts, a national AI conference is scheduled for July 1-2 in Rabat, aiming to foster a shared and responsible vision for AI development among stakeholders.
These measures are part of Morocco’s broader “Digital 2030” strategy, which seeks to harness AI’s potential to fast-track the digitalization of public and private services while nurturing a thriving digital economy. The government intends to back projects that consolidate data registers and frameworks, deploy AI use cases to improve citizen and business services, attract international AI experts, and support startups and companies in high-value-added sectors.
Moreover, the plan includes developing the skills and infrastructure necessary for responsible AI deployment, establishing evaluation mechanisms, and initiating multidisciplinary discussions on AI’s societal, legal, and economic impacts.
The United Nations recognizes AI’s potential to drive digital transformation. In its “E-Government Survey 2024,” the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) noted that AI technologies can enhance public sector operations by automating administrative tasks, increasing efficiency, and reducing backlogs and redundancies. The report also highlighted AI’s role in advancing sustainable development goals.
However, many of Morocco’s AI initiatives remain in the project phase, with their success hinging on effective implementation. DESA also cautions about AI-related risks, including algorithmic biases that may misrepresent certain groups, as well as ethical, security, and social challenges. The UN agency underscored that the ongoing digital divide poses a significant barrier to integrating AI technologies effectively in the public sector.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
• Mauritania to digitize justice system under reform program led by President Ghazouani
• Key measures include IT infrastructure assessment, online nationality request system, and websites for courts and judicial services.
The Mauritanian government is set to integrate digital technologies into its justice reform program, one of the key directions adopted during a meeting of the High Committee for Justice Reform and Development, chaired on Tuesday, May 20, by President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani (photo).
According to the official statement released after the meeting, several measures are planned to modernize the justice system. These include conducting a diagnostic study to identify needs in IT equipment and digital infrastructure, creating an online system for processing nationality requests, and developing websites for courts and judicial services.
This initiative aligns with the Mauritanian government’s broader ambition for digital transformation. Authorities aim to integrate digital tools into public administration to modernize services, boost transparency, and stimulate social and economic development. Several services have already been digitized in recent months, including criminal record requests.
The digitization of the justice sector is supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The agency notes that digital tools can enhance efficiency, transparency, and access to justice. “When implemented strategically, digital justice can advance the rule of law and protect human rights, while strengthening the effectiveness of judicial systems and institutions.”
However, the UNDP also warns of the risks linked to digitization. Digital systems may expose personal and legal data to abuse, including privacy violations, hacking, data sales, or biased predictive tools. Additional challenges include limited Internet coverage, lack of compatible equipment, high costs of digital services, and insufficient user skills.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
- Liberia launched community Wi-Fi hotspots in Bong and Nimba counties with CSquared Africa.
- Initiative aims to expand affordable Internet in public spaces like schools and health centers.
The Liberian government has begun rolling out community Wi-Fi hotspots across the country in an effort to enhance Internet access for its citizens. The initiative, launched last week in Bong and Nimba counties, is a partnership with telecom infrastructure provider CSquared Africa and other stakeholders. Its unveiling coincided with celebrations for World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.
"With new low-cost WiFi access at health centers, schools, and community spaces, we are actively working to enhance digital literacy and economic participation in underserved communities. This initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring that every Liberian can benefit from and contribute to the digital transformation," Liberia's Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications said in a statement published on Facebook.
Internet penetration in Liberia stood at 23.5% in 2023 for an estimated population of 5.6 million, according to data from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The high cost of Internet services is considered one of the main barriers to adoption by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA). The ITU estimates that in 2024, mobile Internet expenses accounted for 8.2% of monthly gross national income (GNI) per capita, significantly higher than the 2% threshold considered affordable by the organization. Fixed Internet costs were even more prohibitive, at 153% of GNI per capita.
While community Wi-Fi hotspots could accelerate Internet adoption in Liberia, their deployment is currently limited to specific areas. The government has not yet specified a timeline for expanding the initiative nationally or provided details on access terms, particularly regarding potential costs for users.
Beyond affordability, service cost is not the sole obstacle to Internet adoption. The GSMA also highlights the limited availability of Internet-compatible devices such as smartphones, tablets, or computers. According to the ITU, only 59% of Liberians owned a phone in 2023, without specifying the proportion of smartphones. Other barriers include a lack of digital skills, limited user experience, and concerns about online security.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
-
Ghanaian Minister Samuel Nartey George and Indian Ambassador Shri Manish Gupta met to explore partnerships in digital payments, mobile banking, and financial inclusion.
-
Discussions also focused on developing Ghana as a coding hub in Africa and strengthening digital infrastructure to support innovation.
-
Talks are still in the early stages, with no formal agreements signed, but both parties expressed commitment to deepening collaboration.
The Ghanaian government intends to deepen its collaboration with India in the technology sector, a key topic during a meeting on Thursday between Ghana's Minister of Communication, Digital Technologies, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George (photo, center), and India's Ambassador to Ghana, Shri Manish Gupta (photo, left).
During their discussions, both sides explored potential partnerships in areas such as digital payments, mobile banking, and financial inclusion. They also discussed the development of Ghana's tech ecosystem, with the aspiration of positioning the country as a coding hub in Africa. Finally, the talks centered on strengthening digital infrastructure to better support innovation and entrepreneurship.
This meeting is part of the Ghanaian government's broader international cooperation efforts aimed at digital transformation, which it views as a crucial driver for socioeconomic development. In recent weeks, Ghana has notably strengthened ties with Germany, Italy, Turkey, Israel, and Denmark. This is in addition to collaborations with entities and companies such as fiber optic firm CSquared, Deloitte, the African Regional Satellite Communication Organization (RASCOM), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and Meta.
Currently, Ghana ranks 108th out of 193 countries on the United Nations e-Government Development Index, with a score of 0.6317. This is significantly higher than the African average of 0.4247 but slightly below the global average of 0.6382. India, in comparison, ranks 97th with a score of 0.6678.
Exchanges between Ghana and India are still in the initial stages. Both parties have committed to further exploring avenues for cooperation and identifying specific projects for implementation. However, no formal agreements have been signed or announced at this time, indicating that future developments will be necessary to provide more definitive insights into the prospects and potential impact of this collaboration.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
More...
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Delegations from Zambia and Zimbabwe visited the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to study its practices, aiming to replicate Nigeria's successful model.
-
Key focus areas included the public-private partnership model, human capital development, policy creation, and public awareness, as highlighted by NDPC Commissioner Vincent Olatunji.
-
The visit follows a growing need for robust data protection amid digital transformation, as noted by Yellow Card, while challenges persist in adapting the model to differing local contexts.
Zambia and Zimbabwe are looking to Nigeria for guidance in personal data protection, with separate delegations from the two Southern African nations making a working visit this week to the headquarters of the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC). The meetings took place on the sidelines of the General Assembly of the African Network of Personal Data Protection Authorities (RAPDP) held in Abuja, Nigeria.
"The purpose of the visit was for the delegations to understudy the day-to-day operations of the NDPC, with a view to replicating best practices in their respective countries," the NDPC said in a statement released on Wednesday, May 14.
Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the NDPC, provided the visiting delegations with an overview of the development of data protection in Nigeria. He emphasized that the Commission has developed a strategic roadmap that has served as its guide since the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023. Olatunji highlighted the public-private partnership model as a key driver of the institution's success. Discussions also covered crucial areas such as human capital development, public awareness campaigns, policy formulation, and collaborative strategies.
This benchmarking visit occurs against a backdrop of rapid digital transformation and the widespread use of electronic communication services. "As more African countries go digital, protecting personal data and ensuring privacy has become a critical concern. People, businesses, and governments are increasingly aware of the need to safeguard personal information as the world becomes more interconnected," noted the cryptocurrency exchange platform Yellow Card in its 2025 report, "The State of Data Protection Laws in Africa."
This knowledge exchange could empower the data protection authorities of Zambia and Zimbabwe to enhance their capacity to fully execute their responsibilities, which, according to Yellow Card, include enforcing legislation, investigating breaches, and assisting businesses and citizens in adopting best practices. For instance, a joint 38-month investigation by Nigeria's Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the NDPC found that WhatsApp had violated Nigerian data protection and competition laws, resulting in a $220 million fine imposed on its parent company, Meta, in July 2024.
However, replicating the Nigerian model in Zambia and Zimbabwe could present challenges due to differing national contexts. Furthermore, Yellow Card points out that the effectiveness of data protection authorities across the African continent varies due to disparities in resources, expertise, and political commitment.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
For developing nations, especially in Africa, embracing strong data protection is not only about catching up with global standards—it is about shaping a sovereign, secure, and inclusive digital future.
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and the Data Protection Authority (DPA) of Somalia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing cross-border collaboration on data protection and privacy enforcement. The signing followed the successful hosting of the 2025 edition of the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA-RAPDP) Conference and Annual General Meeting by the NDPC in Abuja, from 6-8 May, which drew participation from several African data protection authorities.
The agreement was signed by the National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, and the Director-General of DPA Somalia, Mr. Mohamed Nur Ali, at the NDPC headquarters in Abuja. The MoU outlines key areas of cooperation, including mutual legal assistance, information sharing, and joint efforts to promote compliance with data protection laws.
Delegations from The Gambia and Somalia had remained in Nigeria after the conference to study the NDPC’s operational model and strategic approach, which has earned the Commission growing recognition within the global data protection ecosystem.
Africa is undergoing rapid digitalization, but cross-border cooperation on data protection remains weak. Data protection is essential for preserving individual dignity and rights, building digital trust necessary for economic participation, enabling cross-border trade and innovation, strengthening national security and regulatory capacity, and guiding the ethical deployment of emerging technologies.
As of now, only 36 out of 55 African countries have enacted data protection laws, according to data from Data Protection Africa. Without cooperation agreements like this MoU, enforcement across borders becomes fragmented, making Africa vulnerable to data misuse, cybercrime, and privacy breaches. Formalizing cooperation between Nigeria and Somalia sets a precedent for other African nations to follow, helping to secure citizens’ data rights, strengthen national institutions, and create a more trustworthy digital environment for innovation and trade.
Hikmatu Bilali
From December 2 to 12, 2024, the Beninese Ministry of Digitalization launched a call for applications for Beninese MSMEs wishing to obtain the "startup label." The results were recently announced.
Beninese authorities on Friday announced the 15 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) awarded the "start-up label" for the next three years. These companies were selected from a pool of 95 applicants operating in sectors including health, tourism, and technology.
"After verifying the eligibility and completeness of the applications by the permanent secretariat of the technical labeling committee, twenty (20) applications were shortlisted and subjected to an evaluation process conducted by the committee [...]. At the end of the evaluation process, fifteen (15) micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises were granted the start-up label for the next three (03) years," stated the Beninese Ministry of Digitalization.
This selection follows a call for applications that ran from December 2 to 12, 2024, for Beninese MSMEs seeking the "startup label." The awarding of this label is part of the implementation of Decree No. 2023-095 dated March 22, 2023. Authorities intend to provide specific support to these labeled companies to encourage their growth in a favorable environment.
Under Benin's current general tax code, these labeled companies "benefit from a corporate tax exemption and exemption from employer salary contributions for the first two (2) years of activity, as well as a 50% reduction on the same taxes for the third year." The aim is to stimulate innovation, create jobs, and encourage investment in Beninese start-ups.
According to Briter Bridge's "Africa 2023 Investment Report Crisis or Adjustment," African start-ups attracted over $22 billion between 2013 and 2023. In 2024, they secured $3.2 billion, according to Partech Africa data. In the medium term, the "start-up label" initiative could foster the development of a competitive pool of start-ups at the regional and continental levels, while enhancing Benin's attractiveness as an innovation hub in West Africa. Senegal, Rwanda, and Tunisia have previously implemented similar measures to bolster their start-up ecosystems.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
- The platform will provide ongoing professional development for primary school teachers, accessible for free through all ISPs.
- The initiative includes setting up 63 computer labs, each with a server, to ensure platform access even without a direct internet connection.
- Trainers and technicians will be trained to manage and develop platform content, supporting the long-term sustainability of the initiative.
The Mauritanian government is set to launch a digital platform for the ongoing professional development of primary school teachers. A cooperation agreement to establish the platform was signed on Monday between the Ministry of Digital Transformation and Administrative Modernization and the Ministry of Education and Educational System Reform.
The digital platform will be offered free of charge to all teachers and accessible through all internet service providers in Mauritania. Plans also include the creation of 63 computer labs, one in each department. Each lab will be equipped with a server to provide platform access without requiring a direct internet connection.
"The agreement also encompasses a training program for trainers and technicians from the education ministry to enable them to manage the platform and develop its content, thereby ensuring its sustainability and effectiveness," the Ministry of Digital Transformation stated.
The implementation of this platform is part of the Mauritanian government's broader efforts to digitize the national education system. Earlier this year, education sector stakeholders began developing a roadmap for the digital transformation of the sector. Authorities are also working on a novel system to digitize diplomas, aiming to modernize their issuance and enhance their verification.
The Mauritanian government's focus on strengthening teachers' skills through the digital platform is intended to improve teaching quality and student outcomes. However, stakeholders have not yet announced a timeline for the platform's design or deployment. Furthermore, the issue of effective teacher adoption remains to be addressed. Beyond the planned computer labs, the system's success will also depend on individual teachers' access to digital devices like smartphones or computers.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji