Public Management (537)
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Cape Verde launches BOOST.CV to support 150 young digital entrepreneurs with training, mentoring, and incubation.
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The government offers extensive support including scholarships, funding, tech event participation, and a $24 million Morabeza Fund.
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Despite ranking 75th globally and 2nd in West Africa, Cape Verde faces challenges from infrastructure gaps, investment shortages, and a cautious population favoring public jobs.
Cape Verde aims to make digital technology a core part of its socio-economic growth. The government targets increasing the digital sector’s share of GDP from about 5% in the near future.
On July 28, the Cape Verdean government launched the BOOST.CV programme. It intends to back 150 young entrepreneurs in the digital sector by offering training, mentoring, and project incubation.
Deputy Prime Minister Olavo Correia said, “This is not just a technological tool, but a public policy instrument designed to generate real impact. We firmly believe that Cape Verdean talent, both on the islands and in the diaspora, is our greatest resource. And it is our responsibility as a State to create the conditions for this talent to flourish and innovate.”
BOOST.CV complements earlier measures. In May, Pedro Lopes, Secretary of State for the Digital Economy, told Agence Ecofin that the “Cape Verde Digital” programme is a flagship initiative. “Through digital.cv, you can explore our ecosystem. We support 200 young people annually via scholarships and fund around 100 start-ups with two co-founders receiving six minimum salaries, plus logistical and marketing assistance. The Go Global programme finances participation in international tech events.”
Other programmes include "Reinvent Cape Verde," where start-ups solve challenges set by public and private institutions via hackathons, and the Morabeza Fund, a $24 million fund geared toward growing tech start-ups led by youth and women.
Lopes also highlighted regulatory progress, noting a dedicated start-up law with tax benefits, a special technology economic zone, and modern laws on data protection and digital transactions. The government has simplified business registration, launched visas for digital nomads, and opened a technology park.
Cape Verde’s start-up ecosystem ranks 75th worldwide and 2nd in West Africa, according to StartupBlink’s Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2025. The report notes that start-ups face challenges from poor physical infrastructure and a weak investment climate. Additionally, many citizens prefer stable public sector jobs and view entrepreneurship as risky.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
Gabon is deepening international partnerships to fast-track its digital transformation. After recent discussions with Botswana, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has now turned to Turkey for support.
On July 29, Mark Alexandre Doumba, Gabon's Minister of the Digital Economy, met with Can İncesu, Turkey's Ambassador to Gabon, to discuss expanding digital cooperation.
During the meeting, Doumba presented Gabon’s digital roadmap. He emphasized four key priorities: modernizing public administration, expanding digital infrastructure, ensuring data governance and technological sovereignty, and training young digital talent.
Ambassador İncesu expressed Turkey’s interest in supporting Gabon’s efforts. He highlighted potential cooperation in e-government systems, electronic signatures, remote payment solutions for public services, and telecom infrastructure development in underserved areas.
Turkey ranks 27th out of 193 countries on the UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI), with a score of 0.8913, well above the global average of 0.6382. It scores 0.9225 in online services, 0.9192 in human capital, and 0.8322 in telecom infrastructure.
In 2024, Turkey reported 87.3% internet penetration and 96% mobile coverage, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). On the 2025 ICT Development Index, Turkey scored 88.5 out of 100.
Gabon currently ranks 121st globally on the EGDI, with a score of 0.5741. The country performs strongly in telecom infrastructure (0.8263) but lags in online services (0.3188) and human capital (0.5772).
Despite these gaps, Gabon aims to boost the digital sector’s share of GDP to 10–12% by end-2025, up from around 5%. The government also wants to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on extractive industries by investing in digital tools and services.
While both sides expressed strong intent, the partnership remains at an early stage. So far, no official agreement has been signed. The two parties agreed to continue technical discussions to identify high-impact projects for Gabonese citizens.
The road to a full partnership still needs building. Future meetings will determine the real scope and effectiveness of this cooperation.
This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi
Edited in English by Ange Jason Quenum
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Liberia launches mobile tax payment system via *144#, in partnership with Orange Money and Ecobank.
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Covers 18 government agencies; no internet needed; users get SMS confirmation.
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Aims to boost inclusion, transparency, and revenue through digital access.
The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) finalized an agreement on Wednesday, July 23, with Orange Money Liberia and Ecobank for a new digital system. This system will allow citizens to pay taxes and public fees directly via their mobile phones.
“In just five quick steps, a taxpayer can complete a transaction, receive confirmation, and move on with their day,” said Maxwell Dodd, CEO of Orange Money Liberia. “We are excited to partner with the LRA and Ecobank to help modernize Liberia's tax system.”
Taxpayers can now make payments by dialing the USSD code *144#, without needing an internet connection. By entering their Tax Identification Number (TIN), the amount due, and the type of payment, they instantly receive an SMS confirmation. The service already covers 18 ministries and government agencies. Public officials have been trained to ensure its effective rollout.
The initiative aims to simplify tax payments, especially for populations living far from urban centers. It also enhances the transparency and traceability of public revenue. It promotes financial inclusion by being accessible to anyone with a mobile phone.
In the medium term, this platform could help broaden the tax base, increase state revenue, and improve administrative efficiency. Liberia is aligning with a regional trend where mobile finance is becoming a tool for transforming public services. In the longer term, this public-private partnership model could inspire other West African countries as they transition toward more digital, inclusive, and locally adapted governance.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
• Gabon plans to restore IAI as a leading African tech training center.
• Reforms target curriculum, governance, and member state coordination.
• Move addresses aims continent-wide digital skills shortage.
The Gabonese government aims to restore the Libreville-based African Institute of Computer Science (IAI), founded in 1971, to its former status as a leading center for training high-level computer engineers on the continent. This initiative is part of the administration's broader effort to revitalize the pan-African institution.
Mark Alexandre Doumba, Gabon's Minister of Digital Economy, Digitalization and Innovation, met on Tuesday, July 22, with the IAI leadership to conduct a full review of the current situation. He reaffirmed his commitment to continuing a deep overhaul of the Institute, aligning with a pledge made by his predecessor.
“While the IAI long embodied excellence and innovation in the digital field in Africa, structural and organizational difficulties in recent years have slowed its development and influence,” the ministry stated in a press release published on Facebook.
Among the priorities discussed were modernizing training programs, implementing a new educational and managerial approach, overhauling governance, and developing a comprehensive recovery plan. The minister also announced the upcoming convening of an extraordinary board meeting with member states to approve a coordinated relaunch.
The government’s commitment comes amid a digital transformation marked by a growing demand for digital skills. According to the World Bank, 230 million jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa will require digital competencies by 2030, with a strong concentration in digital services. These opportunities will demand profiles equipped with intermediate or advanced skills.
However, a study by Talentum, a fintech specializing in human resources, indicates that most African countries still train fewer than 5,000 computer engineers per year, while demand is often ten times higher. This shortage of technical skills significantly slows the progress of digital transformation on the continent.
For now, the revival of the IAI remains a strong political will that still needs to be implemented. Questions remain about the sustainability of reform financing, the institution’s capacity to keep pace with rapid technological changes, and the effective commitment of all member states. These include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Niger, Senegal, Chad, Togo, and Congo.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
Highlights:
- Somalia and UNDP signed an MoU to support digital governance and public service innovation.
- The deal aims to boost human capital, e-government infrastructure, and digital inclusion.
- Somalia ranks near bottom in global digital and cybersecurity indices.
Somalia has signed a memorandum of understanding with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to accelerate its national digital transformation agenda. The agreement was inked on Wednesday, July 16, in Mogadishu and aims to enhance cooperation in digital governance, innovation, public service delivery, and human capital development.
Lionel Laurens, UNDP’s resident representative in Somalia, said the MoU would serve as a framework for strengthening Somalia’s digital infrastructure and inclusion strategy, particularly in areas such as e-governance and capacity building.
The move is part of a broader international outreach by the Somali government to close its digital gap and promote socio-economic development. Earlier this month, Somali officials reiterated their commitment to international collaboration during a high-level meeting in Switzerland, holding talks with representatives from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Djibouti.
Topics under discussion included youth digital skills development, telecommunications infrastructure, governance, cybersecurity, and investment in emerging technologies.
Somalia remains one of the world’s least digitally developed countries. According to the UN’s 2024 E-Government Development Index, Somalia ranks 191 out of 193, with a score of just 0.1468—far below the African average of 0.4247. In the 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index by the ITU, Somalia is placed at level 4 out of 5 with a score of 37.38 out of 100, underscoring the country’s significant technical and regulatory challenges.
Laurens reaffirmed UNDP’s support for the Somali federal government and emphasized the role of the Ministry of Telecommunications as a key driver of the nation’s digital transition. However, he noted that this is only an initial framework agreement, and its practical outcomes will depend on subsequent implementation steps.
This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi.
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho.
• My Afro Origins platform is dedicated for Afro-descendants seeking citizenship under a new return law recognizing descendants of enslaved Africans.
• Move aligns with global diaspora initiatives like Ghana’s “Year of Return” and Guinea-Bissau’s citizenship program.
• Platform offers application tools with a $100 fee, aiming to strengthen diaspora ties and development.
Benin officially launched My Afro Origins, a digital platform designed to accept applications for Beninese nationality from Afro-descendants. The portal went live on Friday, July 4, 2025.
The platform supports the implementation of Law No. 2024-31, passed on September 2, 2024, which for the first time guarantees the right of return and citizenship to descendants of sub-Saharan Africans who were deported during the slave trade and the transatlantic triangle trade.
“Our brothers and sisters in the diaspora, forcibly uprooted during the dark hours of the transatlantic slave trade, must reclaim their place within the African community,” said Benin’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari. “It is time to heal these wounds and recreate that sacred bond with those who, though physically distant, carry Africa in their hearts.”
The announcement comes as many Afro-descendants, especially African Americans and Afro-Caribbeans, seek to return to Africa, reconnect with their heritage, and contribute to the continent’s development. It also aligns with the United Nations’ International Decade for People of African Descent from 2015 to 2024, which promotes human rights, justice, and development for people of African heritage living outside the continent.
Benin has launched several initiatives to encourage the return of Afro-descendants and strengthen ties with its global diaspora. The Vodun Days festival has become a major event for the African diaspora, attracting visitors from Haiti, the United States, Brazil, and increasingly from Guadeloupe, all seeking to reconnect with their roots.
This initiative follows similar efforts in other countries, such as Ghana’s Year of Return in 2019 and Guinea-Bissau’s recent decision to grant citizenship and issue national passports to an initial group of people of African descent.
Beyond granting Beninese nationality to Afro-descendants, the program offers opportunities for economic, cultural, and educational development.
The My Afro Origins platform allows users to access information, prepare their application, and pay the $100 processing fee.
Lydie Mobio
- Somali officials held talks with international leaders during the WSIS+20 meeting in Geneva
- Discussions focused on digital inclusion, youth training, e-governance, and cybersecurity
- Somalia ranks low on global digital development indexes but is taking early steps to improve
Somalia is aiming to boost international cooperation in digital development, according to government statements made on the sidelines of the WSIS+20 review held in Geneva from July 7 to 11. The event marked 20 years since the launch of the World Summit on the Information Society.
Mohamed Adan Macallin, Somalia’s Minister of Telecommunications and Technology, met with Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director of the ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau. He also held talks with his counterparts from Malaysia and Djibouti, Fahmi Fadzil and Ridwaan Abdulaahi Bahdoon.
Discussions covered key areas such as digital inclusion, training in digital skills for youth and civil servants, digital governance, and cybersecurity.
These efforts are part of Somalia’s broader push to promote technological progress and digital access as drivers of social and economic development. However, the country still faces significant challenges. In the United Nations 2024 E-Government Development Index (EGDI), Somalia ranked 191st out of 193 countries, with a score of 0.1468 out of 1—well below the African average of 0.4247 and the global average of 0.6382.
In terms of cybersecurity, Somalia was placed in category 4 out of 5 in the ITU’s 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index, indicating only a basic level of commitment. The country scored 37.38 out of 100, highlighting the need to improve technical measures, legal frameworks, and capacity building.
For now, the talks in Geneva remain at the discussion stage, with no formal agreements signed. However, in May, Somalia took a first concrete step by signing a memorandum of understanding with Malaysia’s national cybersecurity agency, a country widely recognized for its leadership in this field.
• Cape Verde is exploring digital cooperation with South Korea after a recent technical mission
• Talks focus on data governance, public service digitization, and cybersecurity
• No agreement yet, but South Korea is seen as a key potential partner
Cape Verde's government is exploring a partnership with South Korea in digital transformation. To advance this initiative, a delegation led by the Directorate General of Telecommunications and Digital Economy recently completed a technical mission to South Korea.
In a statement released Monday, July 7, the Ministry of Digital Economy explained that discussions focused on how integrated data governance, the digitization of public services, and cybersecurity can strengthen citizens' trust, boost the digital economy, and improve state efficiency.
This initiative aligns with Cape Verdean authorities' ambition to make digital technology a cornerstone of socio-economic development in the coming years. In a recent interview with the economic news agency Ecofin Agency, Pedro Lopes, Secretary of State for Digital Economy, explained that digital technology can accelerate economic transformation despite limited natural resources. He stated, "We are also modernizing tourism, the blue economy, and agriculture through digital solutions, and we are supporting our youth to create globally competitive startups."
South Korea appears to be a strong ally in achieving these goals. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) considers South Korea a global model in cybersecurity. Regarding digital transformation, it ranked fourth worldwide in the United Nations' 2024 E-Government Development Index (EGDI), with a score of 0.9679 out of 1.
In the same EGDI index, Cape Verde ranks 111th globally, with a score of 0.6238 out of 1. This result is above the West African average but slightly below the global average, which stands at 0.6382. In cybersecurity, Cape Verde falls into the fourth of five categories, according to the ITU's Global Cybersecurity Index. While it performs well on regulatory aspects, the country still needs to strengthen its technical and organizational frameworks, improve international cooperation, and invest in developing human skills.
It is worth noting, however, that talks between South Korea and Cape Verde are still in the early stages. Although Cape Verdean authorities say they have identified concrete opportunities for future collaboration, no formal agreement has yet been signed or announced. Further developments will be needed to assess whether this rapprochement will lead to a genuine partnership and to measure its potential impact.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
• Burkina Faso and the U.S. discussed digital cooperation, focusing on cybersecurity and infrastructure
• 2025 plans include data centers, network expansion, digital IDs, and a $150M transformation project
• Talks are early-stage; U.S. firms like Starlink and AWS may benefit as Burkina Faso seeks to close its digital gap
The Burkinabe government is exploring stronger digital cooperation with the United States. This was a key topic last week during a meeting between Aminata Zerbo/Sabane (photo, right), Minister of Digital Transition, and Joann Lockard (photo, left), the U.S. Ambassador to Burkina Faso.
"The government of Burkina Faso is undertaking many initiatives to support digital transition," Ambassador Lockard stated. "The American experience can be of great help in making this transition a success, particularly in the fields of cybersecurity and data control to protect citizens." She expressed confidence in the potential of American companies in the digital sector to support Burkinabe authorities' projects.
Among the major projects announced for 2025 are the completion of data centers, already 70 percent finished, and extending network coverage to at least 500 additional underserved localities. The ministry also plans to digitize more administrative services, carry out a large-scale population enrollment for electronic unique identification, and launch the Digital Transformation Acceleration Project, estimated at $150 million.
While no specific companies have been named yet in connection with this outreach, these projects could offer tangible opportunities for several U.S. firms already active in Africa. For instance, American Tower, a telecom infrastructure provider, and Starlink, for satellite internet access, might be considered for expanding network coverage. Other companies specializing in digital transformation, such as Microsoft, Oracle, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Cybastion, or Cisco, could also fit into this dynamic.
Furthermore, the United States is among the most advanced countries in digital governance. The United Nations ranks it 19th globally in the E-Government Development Index (EGDI), with a score of 0.9195 out of 1. In cybersecurity, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) considers the U.S. a benchmark in its 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index. The U.S. scores 97.4 out of 100 on the ICT Development Index for 2025.
In contrast, Burkina Faso ranks 175th in the EGDI with a score of 0.2895, well below the global average of 0.6382. For cybersecurity, the country falls into the third of five categories, indicating that further efforts are needed, particularly to strengthen technical capacity and develop human capital.
Discussions between the two parties remain at a preliminary stage. No agreement has been signed or officially announced yet. The progression of these talks will need to be monitored to assess concrete partnership prospects and the actual involvement of American companies in Burkina Faso’s digital transformation.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
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Algeria urged to update cybercrime and AI laws, says parliament speaker.
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National strategy, school, and global partnerships underway.
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Gaps remain in tech capacity and training despite strong legal base.
Algeria must modernize its regulatory framework to keep pace with technological developments and strengthen the fight against cybercrime. This message came from Brahim Boughali, Speaker of the National People's Assembly (APN), on Monday, June 30. He spoke during a parliamentary session focused on legal accountability in cybercrime and artificial intelligence.
According to Boughali, the rapid evolution of cyberspace demands a serious overhaul of legislative mechanisms to effectively confront emerging digital threats. He emphasized the importance of balancing citizens' rights and freedoms with the need for a robust approach to cybercrime prevention. He also highlighted the urgent need for a flexible legal framework that can anticipate future challenges related to artificial intelligence while remaining aligned with constitutional principles and international standards on data protection and digital sovereignty.
This legislative push complements the executive branch's efforts to bolster national cybersecurity. Algeria is looking to deepen cooperation with South Korea, which the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) considers a model in cybersecurity. It has also strengthened ties with Russia to advance in this field. A national cybersecurity strategy is currently being developed. In 2024, the country established a dedicated cybersecurity school, and the topic has been integrated into youth ICT (Information and Communication Technology) training programs, particularly through the nationwide "Skills Centers."
Despite these efforts, the ITU notes that Algeria already has a solid legal foundation, awarding it a score of 19.18 out of 20 in the legal framework category of the Global Cybersecurity Index. However, the country still faces challenges in expanding technical capabilities, building institutional capacity, training talent, and forging essential partnerships for effective cybersecurity. Algeria received an overall score of 65.87 out of 100, placing it in the third tier out of five on the global scale.
Written in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Translated and adapted into English by Mouka Mezonlin
More...
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Cybastion to invest $25 million in Angola’s first phase of cybersecurity program
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Full $170 million plan includes national cybersecurity agency and workforce training
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Angola still ranks low on global cybersecurity index, with major gaps to address
The Angolan government has partnered with US technology company Cybastion to strengthen the country’s cybersecurity capabilities, with the firm committing to an initial $25 million investment.
The deal marks the first phase of a broader $170 million investment program announced last week in collaboration with state-owned operator Angola Telecom. The plan includes establishing a national cybersecurity agency and training new experts in partnership with the Cisco Networking Academy.
This effort aligns with Angola’s national digital transformation strategy, which aims to position information and communication technologies (ICT) as a driver of social and economic development. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) considers cybersecurity a key factor for ensuring sustainable digital growth.
In 2024, Angola was ranked in Tier 4 of the ITU Global Cybersecurity Index, the second-lowest level on a five-tier scale. The ranking reflects limited engagement, with some progress in regulations and international cooperation, but significant work remains to strengthen technical capabilities, improve incident response mechanisms, and expand training and awareness efforts.
Angola has partnered with American technology company Cybastion to improve its cybersecurity. The government signed a deal with Cybastion, which pledged to invest $25 million to strengthen Angola’s digital defenses.
This agreement follows a memorandum of understanding the two parties signed in March during the Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona. The partnership is part of Cybastion’s “Digital Fast Track initiative.”
Officials said this first investment marks the initial phase of a broader $170 million program launched with Angola Telecom. The full program includes creating a national cybersecurity agency and training a new generation of cybersecurity professionals. Angola will collaborate with the Cisco Networking Academy to deliver these training programs.
These moves support Angola’s national digital transformation strategy. The government wants to use information and communication technologies (ICT) to drive socio-economic development. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) considers cybersecurity essential for any successful digital transformation.
In 2024, the ITU ranked Angola in “Tier 4” on its global cybersecurity index, the second-lowest level on a five-point scale. This score shows Angola has made some progress with regulations and international cooperation. However, the country still needs to strengthen technical tools for detection and incident response, improve organizational processes, and boost training and awareness for all stakeholders.
This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi
Edited in English by Ange Jason Quenum
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Zimbabwe to launch $3M e-records system by year-end.
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Pilot covers three ministries, targets 2030 development goals.
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Challenges include skills, infrastructure, and data security.
Zimbabwe is set to launch an Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS) valued at an estimated $3 million by the end of the year. Brenda Mamvura, Director General of the National Archives of Zimbabwe (NAZ), made the announcement Tuesday, June 17, during an interview with Herald Online. The interview took place on the sidelines of the 28th East and Southern Africa Regional Branch of the International Council on Archives (ESARBICA) conference, held in Victoria Falls from June 16 to 20.
Mamvura revealed that a company has already won the contract, and 60% of the procurement process is complete. The Ministries of Finance, Public Service, and the Office of the President and Cabinet have been selected to pilot the system before its nationwide rollout.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader ambition to elevate Zimbabwe to upper-middle-income status by 2030, with digital transformation serving as a key driver. Authorities aim to integrate information and communication technology (ICT) across society and economic sectors to accelerate sustainable socio-economic development. In public administration, the objective is to enhance service delivery, ensure more efficient and responsive governance, improve public resource management, and foster greater citizen engagement.
"The benefits of an EDRMS are clear," Mamvura said. "First, the integration of systems allows for smooth coordination across departments. Then, there’s improved efficiency. Public institutions and state-owned enterprises will be able to serve clients more quickly and effectively."
However, the system remains in its pilot phase, with implementation limited to three ministries for now. The digitization effort also raises several questions, particularly regarding the digital skills of public sector employees, the robustness of Zimbabwe’s technology infrastructure, the availability of adequate computer equipment, reliable internet access, and the protection of sensitive data.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Algerian authorities are mobilizing for blood donation campaigns. They have decided to turn to technology to implement an innovative system in order to better manage these activities.
Algeria's Ministry of Health has launched a new digital platform to facilitate blood donations nationwide. Accessible via the Ministry's official website, the tool aims to enhance coordination between donors and blood transfusion centers while centralizing data on national blood needs.
Specifically, the platform allows citizens to register as donors, receive real-time updates on blood drives, and locate the nearest donation centers. In turn, center administrators can better plan collection campaigns and update their stock levels based on identified needs. This digital system is part of a broader strategy to modernize Algeria's blood collection network.
The initiative comes amid a steady increase in demand for blood products. It follows the second edition of the "Bank of Life" operation, which Algerian Radio launched in October 2024. Concurrently, the National Association of Algerian Pharmacists began a blood donation awareness campaign in June 2025, utilizing pharmacies as information hubs.
In the first half of 2024, over 354,000 units of blood were collected from 256 blood transfusion centers across the country. This represents a 5.49% increase compared to the same period in 2023. By combining a digital approach with citizen engagement, authorities hope to sustain collection efforts throughout the year, moving beyond the typical peaks of solidarity seen during specific times.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa