Public Management (500)
- Algeria targets tablet distribution to half of primary schools by September 2025
- About 10,000 out of 20,000 primary schools to be equipped; currently, 3,270 schools have tablets
- Tablets are intended for learning, research, communication, and school management, enhancing academic performance
Algeria aims to equip half of its primary schools with electronic tablets before the start of the academic year in September 2025, according to Amara Ghalem, Director of Information Systems at the Ministry of National Education. Ghalem announced the project on Saturday, April 26, on the sidelines of a national conference evaluating the digital transition in the education sector.
The initiative targets approximately 10,000 of Algeria's roughly 20,000 primary schools. To date, 3,270 schools nationwide have already received electronic tablets, Ghalem said.
The distribution of digital tablets in schools is part of a broader digitization effort within the education sector, aligning with the government's ambition to develop an "information society" through infrastructure, telecommunications, and the widespread adoption of ICT across all economic sectors. The government aims to transform Algerian schools into models of modernization and innovation through digital tools. Digital platforms have already been deployed for teachers, parents, learning assessment, and appointment booking for diploma authentication.
The tablets are also envisioned for use in school administration. They will enable primary school students and teachers to access online educational resources, conduct research, learn, and communicate, potentially improving the quality of education and academic performance nationwide.
However, challenges remain in meeting the ambitious timeline for tablet distribution. For the current 2024-2025 school year, the government had planned to equip 1,700 primary schools, aiming to reach a total of 5,000 equipped schools. The current coverage stands at 3,270 schools. Additionally, some schools have yet to be included in the program, and the provision of a single tablet per institution may not adequately meet educational needs. The initiative's success also hinges on the availability of reliable internet connectivity in schools and the digital literacy of teachers and students to effectively utilize these tools.
Furthermore, the national conference on the evaluation of the digital transition in education highlighted several challenges. Participants emphasized the need to increase "awareness of cybersecurity risks to ensure a safe digital environment within educational institutions and to develop a new version of the sector's information system in line with the requirements of the country's digital transformation and the aspirations of the educational community," Algérie Presse Service (APS) reported.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
- Congo’s ARPCE and ANSSI sign cybersecurity cooperation pact
- Protocol includes secure threat data sharing, joint response coordination, and creation of a permanent consultative committee
- Focus on building incident response capacity and developing shared technical protocols
The Congolese Regulatory Agency for Posts and Electronic Communications (ARPCE) and the National Agency for Information Systems Security (ANSSI) signed a memorandum of understanding on Friday, April 25, signaling their intent to collaborate on strengthening the security of national networks and cyberspace.
The agreement aims to improve the handling of cybersecurity incidents and foster information sharing between the two organizations. Specifically, it encompasses the secure exchange of information regarding incidents and emerging threats, the coordination of responses to incidents impacting telecom operators, the establishment of a joint committee for continuous consultation, and the enhancement of technical capabilities alongside the development of joint response protocols.
“This partnership aligns with a larger vision: that of a digital, resilient, and sovereign Congo. It underscores our mutual dedication to building a trustworthy digital space, a prerequisite for the growth of our digital economy,” said Louis-Marc Sakala (photo, right), the Director General of the ARPCE. Underscoring this commitment, the government has allocated $1.3 million to ANSSI’s operations for 2025. In October 2024, the government also conducted a cybersecurity training seminar for judicial and law enforcement agencies.
Currently, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)'s 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index classifies Congo as a Tier 4 country in terms of cybersecurity. Tier 4 includes “countries with an overall score of at least 20 out of 100, indicating a basic level of commitment to cybersecurity.” The nation demonstrates strengths in its legislative framework and cooperation efforts. However, it needs to bolster its technical measures, organization, and capacity development, with respective scores of 0.3 out of 20, 3.9 out of 20, and 0.72 out of 20.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Dans un contexte où la méconnaissance du droit freine souvent l’accès à la justice, cette solution numérique se veut un pont entre les citoyens et le système judiciaire, offrant des contenus fiables, accessibles et actualisés. Elle se positionne comme un outil d’inclusion juridique.
Beninese authorities unveiled a mobile application, dubbed "Justice.bj," designed to ease access to justice services this week. The initiative aims to simplify administrative processes and bolster the availability of legal information for citizens.
The application is now available for download on both iOS and Android platforms. According to the Google Play Store, it has already garnered over a thousand downloads. "Justice.bj" offers a range of features, including a comprehensive legal database encompassing laws, decrees, codes, and procedures currently in effect in Benin. Users can also access a directory of the nation's courts and find practical guidance on various administrative and judicial procedures. Notably, the app incorporates a scanning tool that allows users to verify the authenticity of official documents through QR codes.
"Justice.bj" is intended for a broad audience, including the general public, legal professionals, law students, and those working within the justice sector. Its interface allows users to consult legal codes, understand their rights, and identify the appropriate court for a legal matter without immediate external assistance. The application also prioritizes legal education for the public by providing explanatory articles that aim to demystify legal terminology.
However, the effectiveness of the application hinges on the regular updating of its legal texts and guides. Failure to do so could lead to the dissemination of outdated or inaccurate information. Furthermore, while efforts have been made to simplify legal language, the inherent technical nature of law means that some content may still prove challenging for individuals without legal training, potentially limiting their independent understanding of their rights.
Moreover, while "Justice.bj" seeks to democratize access to the law, its utility is contingent upon owning a smartphone and having internet connectivity. This could exclude a segment of the Beninese population, particularly those in rural areas or older individuals. DataReportal figures indicate that at the beginning of 2025, Benin had 4.71 million internet users, representing an internet penetration rate of 32.2%.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
- Augustin Kibassa Maliba began an official visit on April 22 to strengthen digital ties with Tunisia
- Key meetings include sessions with Tunisia’s Ministry of Communication Technologies, ICT Federation (UTICA), and the African Business Council (TABC)
- Discussions center on digital transformation, postal modernization, and entrepreneurship collaboration
Congolese Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital, Augustin Kibassa Maliba, began an official visit to Tunis on Tuesday, April 22, as part of an ambitious initiative to bolster bilateral digital cooperation between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Tunisia.
During his stay, Minister Kibassa Maliba is scheduled for several key meetings, including a bilateral ministerial session at the Tunisian Ministry of Communication Technologies. He will also attend a presentation on the Ecom@Africa platform and postal services, and engage in discussions with the Tunisian ICT Federation (UTICA) and the Tunisian African Business Council (TABC).
The visit includes an immersive experience within the Smart Tunisian Technoparks (S2T) ecosystem, recognized for its programs supporting entrepreneurship and innovation, its research and training initiatives, as well as its internationalization strategies and networking of technological ecosystems.
A central focus of the discussions will be the proposed creation of a Technopark in Kinshasa, with the aim that exchanges with Tunisian digital stakeholders will lay the groundwork for enhanced technical collaboration. This mission aligns with a broader strategy by the Congolese government to structure an effective digital ecosystem, support local tech entrepreneurship, and connect the DRC to regional innovation hubs.
Tunisia has established itself as a significant technological player in Africa. According to the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) “Measuring Digital Development – Facts and Figures 2024” report, 92.8% of the Tunisian population uses the internet, a figure considerably higher than the global average of 70.5%. The country’s ICT Development Index (IDI) score is 77.2 out of 100, reflecting continuous progress.
In e-governance, the United Nations’ “UN E-Government Survey 2024: The Future of Digital Government” ranks Tunisia 87th globally (EGDI score: 0.6935), placing it third in Africa behind South Africa (0.8616) and Mauritius (0.7506).
Should these partnerships materialize, the DRC stands to gain from Tunisia’s expertise in digital governance, modernization of postal services, development of technological ecosystems, and support for entrepreneurial innovation. This collaboration would facilitate the transfer of skills in strategic sectors and expedite the digitization of postal services. It would also foster the implementation of joint projects, the sharing of best practices in integrating online public services, and the enhancement of the Congolese ecosystem’s connection to African digital and logistics networks.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
- Senegal plans national e-learning platform to train civil servants in digital skills
- Initiative discussed in April 18 meeting between Ministries of Digital Affairs and Civil Service
- Aims to enhance digital literacy, modernize tools, and integrate AI in public administration
The Senegalese government is exploring the creation of a national e-learning platform to provide continuous digital skills training for civil servants. Officials believe the initiative will help accelerate the country’s digital transformation—a central pillar of its socioeconomic development strategy in the coming years.
The platform’s development was among the key projects discussed during a joint meeting between the Ministry of Digital Affairs and the Ministry of Civil Service and Public Service Reform on April 18.
“This strengthened collaboration between our two ministries marks a crucial step in implementing the Technological New Deal and the President’s Vision 2050, which seeks to build an agile, inclusive, and user-focused administration—fully aligned with the Ministry of Civil Service’s reform priorities,” the Ministry of Digital Affairs said in a statement.
Improving civil servants’ digital literacy is a core objective of Senegal’s digital transformation policy. The government aims to bolster basic and intermediate skills to promote digital awareness and cultivate a proactive, sustainable digital culture within the public sector. Additional goals include modernizing tools through high-performance digital solutions, integrating artificial intelligence into administrative workflows, and establishing a structured system for monitoring, evaluating, and continuously upgrading skills.
This strategy aligns with recommendations from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). In its report Developing Skills for Digital Government: A Review of Good Practices Across OECD Governments, the OECD stresses that countries must invest in civil servants’ digital competencies to support the shift toward digital governance. The push comes as the World Bank estimates that nearly 230 million jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa will require digital skills by 2030. Senegal currently employs around 130,000 civil servants.
However, the OECD cautions that the success of such training initiatives depends on their design, delivery, and execution.
“Governments must first pinpoint the essential digital and complementary skills, then evaluate existing staff capabilities to identify gaps,” the organization advises. “This allows for targeted training programs that maximize available resources. Finally, they must assess the impact of these efforts to refine future initiatives.”
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Moroccan authorities consider digital technology a key driver of socioeconomic development. This priority spans all sectors, including entrepreneurship.
The Moroccan government and Swedish technology firm Ericsson have announced plans to collaborate on equipping Moroccan entrepreneurs with crucial digital skills. This vision was formalized through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the sidelines of the third edition of Gitex Africa, held in Marrakech from Monday, April 14, to Wednesday, April 16.
Under the MoU, the two entities will explore various ways for Moroccan entrepreneurs and small businesses to leverage Ericsson’s global educational initiatives. A key resource is the Ericsson Educate platform, which offers extensive online learning content covering vital areas such as 5G technology, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), the Internet of Things (IoT), automation, cloud computing, and general telecommunications principles.
The overarching goal for the Moroccan government is to furnish entrepreneurs with the “skills in demand for Morocco’s growing digital economy.” This initiative has the potential to align with Axis 2 of the "Morocco Digital 2030" digital transformation strategy, which aims to digitize the nation's economic structure to enhance productivity. Government plans include establishing a foundation for business digitalization, supporting the growth of Moroccan tech small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and aiding micro and small businesses in their own digital transformations. Through widespread digitalization, the government anticipates adding 100 billion dirhams (approximately $10.8 billion) to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2030.
However, the article notes that beyond skills acquisition, Moroccan companies may face several hurdles in their digital transition. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has highlighted challenges such as limited internal resources, financial constraints, and restricted access to reliable, fast, and affordable digital infrastructure. The OECD points out that “access to fast broadband, which is essential for businesses to fully leverage digital transformation and harness the potential of advanced applications, remains uneven between urban, rural, and remote areas.”
It is crucial to note that the agreement between the Moroccan government and Ericsson is currently a non-binding memorandum of understanding. This document signifies an intention to collaborate, with specific terms and conditions to be determined through future discussions. The signing of a definitive partnership agreement and the subsequent implementation of planned actions will provide a clearer picture of the potential outcomes and impact of this collaboration.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
As the digital economy takes on a more prominent role in global commerce, African nations are working to improve the regulation of digital activity. Senegal is viewing digital taxation as a key tool for asserting its sovereignty and boosting its resources in an era dominated by major online companies.
Senegal collected over one billion CFA francs, equivalent to more than $1.7 million, in 2024 from its recently introduced value-added tax (VAT) on digital services, the country's tax authority announced. Jean Koné, the Director General of Taxes and Domains (DGID), revealed the results on Tuesday, April 15, during the international conference on digital economy taxation in Africa, held in Dakar.
Encouraged by these initial returns, the tax administration intends to intensify its efforts to collect even greater resources in the coming years. "We will implement strategies and innovate to ensure everyone pays the digital VAT. It is also about adapting our system to make it more inclusive and efficient," Koné said. Over the medium term, the government is targeting revenues between 3 and 5 billion CFA francs, with projections reaching as high as 10 billion.
Implemented on July 1, 2024, the tax applies to services provided by both domestic companies and foreign digital platforms operating within Senegal. Unlike a flat tax, the taxable base is calculated from the actual turnover of non-resident providers, based on compensation received or owed. This method more accurately reflects the revenue generated within the Senegalese market.
Senegal's standard VAT rate is set at 18%, with a specific 10% reduced rate for sectors facing difficulties, such as hospitality and restaurants, which were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The tax specifically targets streaming services, software subscriptions (SaaS), cloud computing, online advertising, downloadable games, and paid mobile applications.
While the measure increases state revenues, it also carries implications for consumers. By taxing platforms based on their actual income, the prices of certain digital services could increase, potentially excluding the most vulnerable populations. The key challenge for authorities will be to balance tax efficiency with digital accessibility, ensuring that digital transformation does not come at the cost of inclusion.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
- Congo signs MoU with Russia's Higher School of Economics to boost digital skills training
- Agreement announced at Gitex Africa, focuses on training youth to support nationwide digitization
The Congolese government has secured an agreement for Russian expertise to enhance the digital skills of its population. A memorandum of understanding was signed on Tuesday with Moscow's Higher School of Economics (EHESE) on the sidelines of the third Gitex Africa exhibition, which concludes on Wednesday.
"To train in the digital field, you need access to digital expertise. The purpose of this memorandum is to facilitate the exchange and advancement of expertise to train young Congolese, because the goal is to digitize all spheres of our administration. And when we talk about digitization, if you don’t have the necessary skills, it’s very difficult," Léon Juste Ibombo, Congo's Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and the Digital Economy, told RT television.
The Congolese government has identified digital skills as a cornerstone of its digital transformation strategy, alongside innovation and entrepreneurship. This priority has already led to initiatives such as the establishment of the African Center for Research in Artificial Intelligence (CARIA), with support from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). In March, Congo also began discussions to join the Give1Project program, an initiative backed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Microsoft, and France, which aims to train 25,000 young Africans in digital skills. Furthermore, a partnership has been forged with Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, among others.
By prioritizing digital skills training, the Congolese government aims to empower its citizens to actively participate in the burgeoning digital economy and cultivate a skilled workforce capable of addressing both national and regional demands. The World Bank, for instance, projects that nearly 230 million jobs in sub-Saharan Africa will require digital skills by 2030. The Bretton Woods institution estimates Congo's youth unemployment rate at approximately 42%, in a nation where nearly half of the population is under the age of 18.
However, it is important to note that the agreement signed in Marrakech is currently a memorandum of understanding, and the specific terms and a timeline for a formal agreement have not been disclosed. Several key details remain unclear, including the number of beneficiaries, the targeted age groups, the selection criteria for participants, and the precise digital skills that will be taught. Further developments will be necessary to fully evaluate the potential impact and concrete prospects of this nascent partnership.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
- Benin and Mali sign data protection cooperation agreement
- Pact aims to enhance best practice sharing, joint complaint handling, and compliance checks
- Countries to develop shared regulatory standards via technical committees
Benin's Personal Data Protection Authority (APDP) said on Tuesday it signed a cooperation agreement with its counterpart in Mali, seeking closer ties as digital sovereignty issues gain traction in West Africa.
The initiative will foster regular exchanges of best practices and the sharing of operational tools between the two data protection agencies, the APDP announced. The agreement also allows for the joint handling of specific complaints or compliance checks.
Furthermore, Benin and Mali will work towards developing common regulatory standards through dedicated technical committees. They plan to hold joint commissions every two years and organize shared training sessions to enhance the skills of their respective staff.
This collaboration aligns with a broader continental movement spearheaded by the African Network of Personal Data Protection Authorities (RAPDP), which promotes the harmonization of digital regulation across the continent. The move comes as the protection of personal data increasingly becomes a strategic priority for African nations.
According to Africa Cybersecurity Magazine, 37 of the continent's 54 countries now have national laws addressing personal data protection, including both Benin and Mali. However, the effective enforcement of these laws remains a hurdle in several nations.
Through this agreement, Benin and Mali aim to forge a unified approach to the escalating complexities of digital regulation. In a landscape characterized by the cross-border movement of data, the compatibility of legal frameworks is increasingly vital. This partnership could facilitate a more coordinated response to potential threats and help establish a strong foundation of digital trust within West Africa.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
This partnership could help Ghana in its digitalization agenda, improve service delivery, enhance climate resilience, and build a greener, smarter economy. By aligning with a partner like Denmark, Ghana is expanding its capacity to tackle complex development challenges through technology-driven, inclusive solutions.
On April 11, Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, held talks with a Danish Embassy delegation led by Ambassador Tom Norring. The meeting explored opportunities for collaboration in digitalization, innovation, and climate resilience, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties and draw on Denmark’s global expertise in technology and sustainable development.
The meeting highlighted the growing role of Techplomacy—the intersection of technology, diplomacy, and international cooperation—as a driving force in shaping Ghana’s digital future.
Ghana aims to adopt Danish GovTech platforms like cBrain’s F2 and eBoks to improve public service access. The partnership also supports Ghana’s green transition by leveraging Denmark’s expertise in renewable energy and eco-friendly technologies. Denmark’s experience in entrepreneurship and digital startups could help grow Ghana’s local tech industry. Ghana also seeks to collaborate with the Danish Meteorological Institute (DMI) to enhance GMet’s weather forecasting and climate data systems, improving climate resilience and disaster preparedness.
Ghana has made progress in digital governance but still faces key challenges. According to the 2024 UN E-Government Development Index, which measures how effectively governments use digital technologies to deliver public services, Ghana ranks 108th out of 193 countries, highlighting gaps in service delivery, infrastructure, and online access despite ongoing efforts.
In contrast, Denmark ranks 1st, reflecting its leadership in digital public services, strong infrastructure, and high citizen engagement. Ghana’s partnership with Denmark offers a chance to gain technical expertise and insights to build more efficient, inclusive digital systems. Strengthening such collaborations can help Ghana accelerate its digital transformation and improve its global ranking.
This engagement marks a significant step toward future Ghana–Denmark tech cooperation, with potential to deliver long-term benefits across public service delivery, climate resilience, and innovation-led growth.
Hikmatu Bilali
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- Madagascar launches $24 million DECIM program to distribute smartphones and boost digital access
- 664,000 devices to be distributed, including 400,000 for women and girls
- Initiative targets increased internet adoption and digital inclusion, especially in remote areas
Last week, the government of Madagascar kicked off a program to distribute digital devices, including smartphones, to its citizens under the $24 million Digital and Energy Connectivity for Inclusion in Madagascar Project (DECIM). The initiative aims to boost internet adoption and the use of digital services nationwide.
According to the CSM Association (GSMA), the inability to afford internet-enabled phones is a major obstacle to technology adoption in areas with existing mobile network coverage. While the GSMA notes that many devices are now priced below $100, this still remains unaffordable for a large segment of the population.
In Madagascar, a $100 smartphone represents nearly 20% of the country’s annual gross national income (GNI) per capita, which the World Bank estimated at $510 in 2023. Even with an average phone lifespan of three years, the cost of acquisition remains substantial, particularly given that many basic needs take precedence.
As part of the initiative, the Malagasy government plans to distribute 664,000 connected digital devices, with 400,000 specifically earmarked for women and girls. The program seeks to reduce disparities in technology access and bolster digital and economic inclusion. A dedicated platform for the “Sale of Digital Devices with Internet Access” will soon be launched, featuring targeted subsidies, a credit line for distributors and financial institutions, a focus on remote areas, and the promotion of mobile money for financial inclusion.
This government effort aligns with broader digital transformation goals outlined in the Digital Strategic Plan (PSN) 2023–2028. Authorities aim to position Madagascar as a key player in Africa’s digital economy by developing telecommunications, e-government services, and digital inclusion. The government is targeting a 6% contribution from the digital sector to GDP by 2028, up from just 1.5% in 2019.
However, smartphone ownership alone does not guarantee internet usage or engagement with digital services, even where network coverage exists. “Among current mobile internet users, many would like to use it more but face a range of barriers to increasing their usage. The main constraints include security concerns, affordability, and connectivity experience. Perceived lack of relevance also plays a role,” the GSMA noted in its State of Mobile Internet Connectivity Report 2024, published in October 2024.
It is important to note that the Malagasy government has not announced any subsequent phases for the program, which remains limited in scope given the country’s estimated population of 31.2 million. In fact, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), approximately 80% of the Malagasy population do not use the internet.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
With the upcoming rollout, Ghana is taking a significant step forward in building a more efficient, secure, and inclusive digital ecosystem.
Starting June 2025, SIM card re-registration in Ghana will go fully online, allowing citizens to complete the entire process online—no visits to physical registration centers will be required. The announcement was made on April 8 by Minister for Communication, Samuel Nartey George during a visit to Margins ID Group (Intelligent Card Production Systems) in Accra.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to streamline public services and accelerate the country’s digital transformation. “This system will save time, improve accuracy, and offer a more convenient experience for all Ghanaians,” the Minister noted.
Under the new system, citizens will be able to register their SIM cards using their Ghana Card through a fully online platform, with automatic verification replacing in-person, manual checks.
Ghana’s SIM card re-registration campaign began in 2021, requiring all SIM holders to re-register their numbers using the Ghana Card, the national identity document. However, the process has faced multiple delays due to low registration rates and logistical challenges—including long queues, technical issues, and limited access to registration centers.
According to an update from the Ministry of Communications dated November 11, 2022, and signed by then-Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, 30,011,082 individuals had completed the first phase of registration by linking their Ghana Card to their SIM number. Of these, 20,892,970 had completed the full process, including biometric verification—representing nearly 70% of total registrations at the time.
Despite the progress, millions of SIM cards remained unregistered, prompting repeated deadline extensions and concerns about service disruptions for those unable to complete the process. By moving to a fully online system, the government aims to close the remaining registration gap and reduce the administrative burden for both citizens and telecom operators. The updated system is expected to improve access, boost compliance, and enhance data accuracy.
Beyond convenience, online re-registration is also critical to national goals. The government hopes to strengthen security by curbing fraudulent SIM use and ensuring better regulation of the telecom sector through accurate subscriber data.
Hikmatu Bilali
Gabon has long prioritized digital technology. Building on this foundation, newly elected President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema aims to accelerate progress, positioning the nation as a leading African technology hub through ambitious reforms and strategic investments.
Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, elected President of Gabon on Sunday after leading the country as Transitional President since the August 2023 military coup, has placed digital development as a key priority in his administration's six-pillar political program.
Oligui Nguema, recognizing digital technology's pivotal role in economic and social development, aims to modernize infrastructure, ensure equitable internet access, and position Gabon as a Central African technology hub.
A central component of his vision is the accelerated deployment of fiber-optic networks nationwide, with the goal of achieving widespread broadband coverage, particularly in underserved rural areas, to bridge the digital divide. He views connectivity as a fundamental right, ensuring all Gabonese citizens, public administrations, and businesses have access to fast, reliable, and affordable internet.
According to DataReportal, Gabon had 1.84 million internet users at the beginning of 2025, representing a 71.9% penetration rate. The government aims to achieve 100% penetration by strengthening infrastructure and ensuring nationwide digital service accessibility.
Building national data centers is also a priority to ensure digital sovereignty. These facilities will store sensitive state data locally and support a dynamic digital ecosystem. The first data center's construction was awarded to Indian company Shapoorji-Pallonji in 2023.
Supporting digital entrepreneurship and local innovation is another key initiative. The presidential program includes innovation hubs and tech incubators, such as the Gabonese Innovation Center, to support startups' growth. Access to financing, public procurement, and business opportunities will be facilitated, alongside modern coworking spaces to foster innovation.
Digitizing public administration is a reform priority. Modernizing institutions like the National Social Security Fund (CNSS) aims to improve service efficiency, enhance transparency in public fund management, and increase user satisfaction. A digital platform for public services is slated for launch in the first half of 2025 to digitize administrative procedures and combat delays and corruption.
This digital strategy is part of a broader state rebuilding effort, focusing on tools to track public spending, stricter project planning and execution, and civil service professionalization. The digital sector has contributed around 5% of Gabon's GDP for nearly five years, and the government aims to double this share through investment, innovation, and job creation.
Regionally, Gabon is a top performer. In 2024, it recorded an ICT adoption index of 74.7 out of 100, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), ranking 10th in Africa. In e-government, it ranks 15th on the continent with a digital government development index of 0.5741, according to the United Nations.
Through this integrated approach, Oligui Nguema seeks to make digital technology a cornerstone of Gabon's renewal, aiming to build a sovereign, innovative, and inclusive tech ecosystem for sustainable growth, youth opportunities, and transparent governance.
Samira Njoya
- Somalia grants operating license to Starlink to expand internet access
- Service aims to improve rural connectivity using low-Earth orbit satellites
Somalia's National Communications Authority (NCA) announced Sunday it has granted an operating license to Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk's SpaceX, aiming to expand internet access, particularly in underserved rural areas.
The NCA believes Starlink's entry will significantly improve connectivity across the country.
"Starlink's entry into Somalia represents a significant milestone in our efforts to bridge the digital divide," said Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, Director General of the NCA, during the license signing ceremony. "This partnership will especially benefit individuals and institutions in rural areas, where internet access has been extremely limited."
Starlink uses a network of low-Earth orbit satellites to deliver internet services, a technology aligned with the GSM Association's (GSMA) recommendations for achieving universal connectivity in sub-Saharan Africa. The GSMA notes that the region's challenging terrain, including rainforests, deserts, and mountains, hinders the deployment of traditional terrestrial networks. "Even in rural and sparsely populated areas, the cost and complexity of deploying traditional mobile or wired networks reinforce the need for alternative connectivity solutions," the GSMA said.
According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), nearly half of Somalia's approximately 18.4 million people lacked 4G network coverage in 2023. While 3G and 2G technologies reached 80% and 90% of the population, respectively, the country's overall internet penetration rate stood at only 27.6%.
The potential impact of Starlink on Somalia's digital divide hinges on its affordability. Although specific Somali pricing has not been disclosed, neighboring Kenya offers a potential benchmark: a standard monthly subscription costs 6,500 Kenyan shillings (roughly $50), with a connection kit priced at 49,900 shillings.
If Somalia's pricing mirrors Kenya's, the service could be prohibitively expensive for many Somalis. The $50 monthly fee exceeds Somalia's monthly gross national income (GNI) per capita, estimated at $49.1 by the World Bank. The ITU recommends that monthly internet service expenditures should not exceed 2% of GNI per capita. Currently, Somalis spend an average of 5.3% of per capita GNI on mobile voice and internet services, and up to 80% for fixed internet.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji