Tech

Tech (1212)

  • Agreement sets technical support framework through 2035
  • Plan includes tech hubs, AI training, support for local solutions

Guinea's Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy signed an agreement with the United Nations Development Programme on Wednesday to advance digital innovation and artificial intelligence in the country.

The document was signed by Minister Mourana Soumah and UNDP Resident Representative Anthony Ohemeng-Boamah. It establishes a technical support framework to guide the country's digital transformation through 2035.

The agreement includes support mechanisms for the technology sector, focusing on developing technology hubs and the rollout of AI training programs across the country.

The new cooperation framework builds on earlier joint efforts. In May, the Higher Institute of Technology in Mamou launched UniPod Guinea, the country's first university-based technology innovation hub, supported by the UNDP's pan-African Timbuktoo program. The center serves as a prototyping and incubation space for student and entrepreneurial projects in areas such as agritech, green technologies and applied artificial intelligence.

Through the agreement, Guinean authorities and the UNDP aim to better coordinate initiatives in research, training and digital entrepreneurship. The goal is to support the development of locally developed technology solutions capable of addressing economic and social needs, while integrating emerging technologies into public policy.

Samira Njoya

Posted On vendredi, 17 avril 2026 02:44 Written by
  • Rwanda signed a strategic agreement with Ansys to integrate simulation tools into higher education.
  • Universities will gain access to advanced software, licenses, and industry-linked training programs.
  • The initiative aligns with a global simulation software market projected to exceed $36 billion by 2030.

The Ministry of ICT and Innovation of Rwanda announced on Tuesday, April 14, in Kigali that it signed a memorandum of understanding with Ansys, a U.S.-based firm specializing in digital simulation. The partnership aims to integrate advanced engineering simulation tools into the curricula of universities and polytechnic schools across the country.

The agreement, which Minister of State Yves Iradukunda and Lou Major signed, establishes a centralized framework to connect Rwandan universities and polytechnic institutions to Ansys platforms.

Institutions will access advanced simulation software and associated licenses, while the initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of these technologies across the education system.

The agreement also includes training programs, conferences, demonstrations, and industry engagement sessions. These initiatives aim to expose students and faculty to real-world applications of simulation and strengthen alignment between academic training and labor market needs.

This project forms part of Rwanda’s broader strategy to strengthen alignment between university curricula and industry requirements, particularly in engineering and technology sectors. The government seeks to improve practical skills development suited to an increasingly digital economy by embedding simulation tools into academic programs.

Ansys solutions already support industrial groups across sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and energy by simulating product behavior before manufacturing. These tools help companies reduce development costs and accelerate innovation cycles.

Their introduction into Rwanda’s higher education system aims to familiarize students with widely adopted industry technologies amid rising demand for advanced engineering skills.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum

Posted On jeudi, 16 avril 2026 18:14 Written by
  • Ivory Coast partners with University of Montpellier to train space engineers and develop its first satellite.
  • The initiative supports the rollout of the national space agency and existing satellite projects.
  • African countries plan more than 100 additional satellite launches by 2030, reflecting rapid sector growth.

Ivory Coast seeks to leverage the expertise of University of Montpellier in France to train its first cohort of space specialists. The collaboration will also cover the development of the country’s first national satellite.

Authorities discussed this cooperation on Wednesday, April 15, during a meeting between Adama Diawara, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and a delegation from the Space Center of the University of Montpellier led by its director Laurent Dusseau.

This meeting marked an initial step in launching the activities of the Ivorian Space Agency (ASCI), which authorities established to structure the sector.

According to the Ivorian government, Dusseau emphasized that the University of Montpellier provides infrastructure capable of training technicians and engineers by combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

He stated: “We deliver this training through a specialized master’s program designed for engineers who already hold degrees in various fields and who complete an अत्य intensive one-year course to acquire space expertise that enables them to access highly specialized roles such as IT engineer or systems engineer.”

This initiative forms part of broader efforts to develop the space sector in Ivory Coast. In May 2023, the country announced a partnership with Universal Konstructors Associated (UKA) to build Yam-Sat CI 01, the first national satellite, with a launch initially scheduled for August 2024.

Earlier, authorities announced plans in 2021 to establish a national space agency, and they formalized the creation of the agency by decree in June 2025. The agency oversees capacity building and infrastructure development in the space sector.

The Council of Ministers outlined the agency’s scope in its June 4, 2025 report and confirmed that its activities cover key pillars of the space sector. “Its scope of activity covers essential pillars of space applications, namely Earth observation, space weather, astronomy, space exploration, as well as satellite navigation and communication,” the report stated.

The government added that these capabilities will address economic development challenges, strengthen national security, and support environmental protection.

Ivory Coast’s efforts align with a broader continental trend. A report by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies published in September 2025 indicated that African states allocate approximately $500 million annually to space programs.

The study reported that more than 21 African countries have established space programs, while 18 have launched at least one satellite. African nations have launched a cumulative total of 65 satellites and plan to deploy more than 120 additional satellites by 2030.

This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum

Posted On jeudi, 16 avril 2026 18:02 Written by
  • Uganda to launch first national internet exchange point (NIPX)
  • Platform to keep domestic traffic local, reducing costs and latency
  • Initiative aims to boost ICT growth, investment, digital services

Uganda’s National Information Technology Authority (NITA-U), in collaboration with the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, on Monday announced the upcoming deployment of the National IP Peering Exchange (NIPX), the country’s first Internet exchange point.

The platform is expected to streamline the routing of domestic digital traffic and improve the efficiency of Uganda’s Internet ecosystem.

Speaking to reporters, Minister of State for National Guidance Kabbyanga Godfrey Baluku said the NIPX would position Uganda as a competitive ICT hub in East Africa and beyond. He added that the infrastructure is expected to attract investment, support innovation, and boost the development of local digital content and services, while creating new economic opportunities for youth and entrepreneurs.

Scheduled for official launch on Friday, April 17, the NIPX will function as a national interconnection hub, allowing internet service providers, content platforms, public networks, and private operators to exchange traffic locally.

Until now, much of Uganda’s domestic Internet traffic was routed through infrastructure abroad before returning to the country, increasing costs and latency. The new system aims to keep this traffic within national borders, reducing costs and improving network performance.

The project falls under the Uganda Vision 2040 framework, which prioritizes digital transformation, science, and innovation as key drivers of economic growth.

It also underscores the government’s push to strengthen digital sovereignty, modernize the ICT sector, and enhance the country’s appeal to digital economy investors.

Authorities say the NIPX is expected to lower international connectivity costs, improve service speed and quality, and strengthen the resilience of the national network against external disruptions. For users, this should translate into smoother online experiences, particularly in communications, e-government services, and education.

Samira Njoya

Posted On jeudi, 16 avril 2026 02:17 Written by
  • Senegal, UNDP sign deal to advance digital governance, AI
  • Partnership to support innovation hubs, startup ecosystem growth
  • Government targets 500 startups, 150,000 jobs by 2034

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Communication, Telecommunications and the Digital Economy (MCTN) signed a framework agreement on Tuesday, April 14, in Dakar. The partnership aims to structure Senegal's digital governance and accelerate the integration of artificial intelligence into public services.

Minister Alioune Sall and UNDP Resident Representative Njoya Tikum signed the agreement. The deal comes at a strategic time, as authorities aim to strengthen digital inclusion and establish a regulatory framework conducive to innovation. The government said the partnership is "structuring and results-oriented," aligning with its priorities for public service digitalization and economic competitiveness.

The first tangible outcome of the partnership is expected on April 27 with the inauguration of the University Innovation Pod (UNIPOD) at Amadou Mahtar Mbow University. Funded with $1 million, the hub is designed as an incubator to support young innovators in turning research projects into high-impact startups. Authorities plan to replicate this model nationwide to expand the network of innovation centers.

The initiative is part of the "Technological New Deal," Senegal's national digital transformation strategy, which aims to create more than 500 certified technology startups by 2034 and generate around 150,000 direct jobs. According to StartupBlink, the country currently has about 60 active startups, highlighting an ecosystem still taking shape and scaling.

Samira Njoya

Posted On jeudi, 16 avril 2026 02:09 Written by
  • Zambia rolls out mobile money payments across all NRFA-operated toll gates.

  • The reform aims to reduce congestion, improve efficiency and enhance revenue collection.

  • Mobile money transactions in Zambia exceeded 100 billion kwacha ($5.2 billion) in March 2025.

The National Road Fund Agency (NRFA) has introduced a mobile money payment system across all toll gates it operates nationwide. The reform aims to modernize fee collection, reduce congestion at toll plazas and improve operational efficiency.

The agency presented the initiative on Sunday, April 12, through its public relations officer, Alphonsius Hamachila. The rollout forms part of a broader digital transformation strategy within the NRFA.

The new system operates alongside existing payment methods, including cash and the E-Toll electronic card, offering motorists three payment options. According to the NRFA, the system enables faster, more secure transactions and reduces reliance on cash handling, while improving traffic flow at toll points.

In practice, drivers complete payments directly via mobile phones. Toll agents enter the user’s phone number, and the system confirms the transaction instantly on the driver’s device.

However, the agency stated that the solution will not apply to toll gates operated under public-private partnerships (PPP), which maintain their own management systems.

The reform comes as mobile money usage accelerates in Zambia. According to the Bank of Zambia, the sector reached a record milestone, with transactions exceeding 100 billion kwacha (about $5.2 billion) in March 2025, marking the highest monthly level ever recorded.

By integrating mobile money into toll management, authorities aim to improve the collection of revenues used to maintain and modernize the national road network. The system should also reduce risks linked to cash handling and strengthen transaction transparency.

Samira Njoya

Posted On mardi, 14 avril 2026 14:50 Written by
  • Burkina Faso launched an online travel declaration platform to streamline border procedures.

  • Authorities aim to enhance real-time data access and strengthen security monitoring.

  • The initiative forms part of a broader rollout of 272 digital public service platforms.

Security Minister Mahamadou Sana launched an online platform for managing travel declaration forms on April 8. The platform is accessible at https://fichedevoyage.gov.bf/  and allows travelers to complete their forms up to 72 hours before departure.

The system aims to streamline entry and exit procedures while reducing queues and processing times at border checkpoints, particularly at Ouagadougou International Airport.

Beyond simplifying administrative procedures, the digitalization introduces a structural shift in migration data management. Security services now access centralized, real-time traveler information, which improves traceability of movements and strengthens analytical capabilities.

Authorities are implementing these measures as the region continues to face persistent security challenges.

The launch aligns with Burkina Faso’s wider public sector digital transformation strategy. The platform adds to a growing portfolio of online services developed under the government’s administrative modernization program.

In February, authorities announced the rollout of 272 digital service platforms, of which 146 are already operational. These tools are improving access to administrative services for both citizens and businesses.

The expansion of digital services addresses several structural challenges within Burkina Faso’s administration, including slow manual procedures, fragmented databases, and limited tracking of traveler flows.

By centralizing information and automating part of the administrative process, the government aims to reduce processing times, minimize human error, and improve data reliability.

Samira Njoya

Posted On lundi, 13 avril 2026 15:03 Written by
  • Morocco and Gabon signed two agreements covering AI, digital policy and skills development.

  • The partnership includes scholarships and training programs to strengthen public-sector capabilities.

  • Morocco targets up to $10.7 billion in AI-driven value by 2030.

Morocco and Gabon signed two agreements on the sidelines of the 2026 edition of GITEX Africa, held from April 7 to April 9 in Marrakech. The agreements reflect a shared commitment to accelerate digital transformation and develop human capital.

Digital ministers Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni and Mark Alexandre Doumba signed the first agreement to structure bilateral cooperation. The framework covers knowledge sharing on digital public policies, regulatory harmonization, and the rollout of training programs aligned with sector needs.

Under the agreement, 15 Gabonese students will receive full scholarships to attend Mohammed VI Polytechnic University starting in September 2026.

The National Institute of Posts and Telecommunications of Morocco and its Gabonese counterpart signed the second agreement to modernize training curricula. The institutions aim to align education programs with labor market and public administration needs.

The initiative includes a dedicated program for Gabonese public officials, with five fully funded scholarships awarded annually over five years to strengthen technical expertise within government institutions.

The partnership forms part of a broader trend of South-South cooperation across Africa, where governments are leveraging shared expertise to accelerate digital transitions and boost ecosystem competitiveness.

Gabon is seeking to leverage Morocco’s experience to structure its digital environment and diversify its economy. The country is refining its digital strategy around regulatory strengthening, infrastructure development, digitization of public services, and skills development.

Morocco is pursuing ambitious artificial intelligence goals and is targeting value creation of up to 100 billion dirhams (about $10.7 billion) by 2030. The country is relying on innovation, skills development, and expanded international partnerships to achieve this target.

Samira Njoya

Posted On lundi, 13 avril 2026 14:58 Written by
  • Namibia recorded 1.7 million cyberattacks in 2025, up 37% year-on-year.

  • Authorities identified over 2.23 million vulnerabilities enabling attacks.

  • Government allocated $1 million to cybersecurity for the 2026/2027 fiscal year.

Namibia recorded 1.7 million cyberattacks between January and December 2025, marking an increase of about 37% compared with the previous year, according to official data. The findings come from the “Namibia Cybersecurity Landscape Report 2025.”

The Namibia Cyber Security Incident Response Team (NAM-CSIRT) published the report on Friday, April 11. The report states that authorities identified 2,231,970 vulnerabilities during the year. These weaknesses directly enabled cyber incidents, including distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, malware propagation, and unauthorized remote access.

The report highlights a shift toward large-scale exploitation of trust, as attackers increasingly use social engineering and artificial intelligence-assisted deception.

During the first quarter, attackers deployed AI-generated deepfake campaigns to promote fraudulent investment schemes. By mid-year, phishing attacks via Telegram and other social engineering methods remained widespread.

The report also identifies the emergence of ransomware attacks at the municipal level, using double extortion techniques. In addition, attackers launched smishing campaigns that mimicked delivery services and circulated deepfake videos featuring senior officials. These trends illustrate a more structured fraud ecosystem fueled by AI-driven disinformation.

A global and continental trend

This increase in cyber fraud reflects broader global and African trends. In its “Cybercrime Africa Cyberthreat Assessment 2025,” Interpol states that the expansion of online activity is accelerating cybercrime across the continent.

Interpol states that “cybercriminals constantly refine their tactics, using social engineering, artificial intelligence and instant messaging platforms to launch increasingly sophisticated attacks. Cybercriminal networks, whether local or international, exploit human vulnerabilities as a primary method, using advanced deception techniques to target organizations and individuals.”

Measures to secure Namibia’s digital future

NAM-CSIRT emphasizes that the rollout of digital identity systems, the expansion of digital services, and the growth of infrastructure are increasing the urgency of integrating cybersecurity into national development. The agency calls for a comprehensive approach involving government, regulators, critical sectors, businesses, academia, and citizens to maintain digital trust and ensure service continuity.

The “Namibia Cybersecurity Landscape Report 2025” recommends finalizing legal frameworks covering cybercrime, data protection, and critical infrastructure. The report also calls for strengthening NAM-CSIRT’s capacity to improve monitoring, detection, and incident coordination.

In addition, the report recommends establishing sector-specific CSIRTs in key industries and reducing critical vulnerabilities such as outdated and poorly secured systems. It urges authorities to accelerate the deployment of digital identity and trust services.

The report calls on authorities to mandate multi-factor authentication, increase awareness of threats such as phishing and deepfakes, and improve cyber threat information sharing. Finally, the document emphasizes strengthening cyber governance through international standards and increasing support for small and medium-sized enterprises and resource-constrained public institutions.

This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum

Posted On lundi, 13 avril 2026 14:49 Written by
  • Program targets 250 firms, focusing on SMEs and productivity gains
  • Initiative aligns with national AI roadmap for 2026–2035

Confédération Générale des Entreprises de Guinée (CGE-GUI), the country’s main private sector body, launched the "AI Xcelerate" programme in Conakry on Wednesday, April 8. The initiative, developed in partnership with the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) and Microsoft, aims to accelerate the integration of artificial intelligence into Guinea’s private sector.

The programme targets more than 250 Guinean companies, with the goal of facilitating the adoption of technologies that remain largely underused in the country. It aims to help businesses improve productivity, modernise management tools and adapt to shifts in the global economy, according to Mansah Sy Savané, vice president of CGE-GUI.

Beyond training, "AI Xcelerate" offers a structured support framework that allows companies to test and gradually integrate artificial intelligence into their operations. The programme seeks to move participants from awareness to practical adoption, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises, which account for most businesses in Guinea.

The initiative comes as artificial intelligence is emerging as a driver of growth worldwide. For Guinea, the challenge is to avoid falling behind technologically by equipping its companies with the tools needed to benefit from AI in a rapidly changing economic environment.

According to Rose Pola Pricemou, presidential adviser on technology and artificial intelligence, the country has adopted the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) AILA framework, which led to the development of a national artificial intelligence roadmap for 2026–2035. This momentum has been reinforced by the DounIA conferences, which focused on shaping a national data strategy.

Samira Njoya

Posted On dimanche, 12 avril 2026 17:17 Written by
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