Tech (1199)
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The United States will launch Africa’s first regional drone training center in Morocco, starting with a pilot during African Lion 2026.
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Sixteen soldiers from partner countries will receive operational drone training in planning and system handling.
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The global military drone market could reach $30.9 billion by 2034, up from $18.2 billion in 2025.
Morocco will host the first U.S. regional drone training center in Africa, according to an announcement by General Christopher Donahue, commander of U.S. Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF). The project will begin with a pilot phase during the African Lion 2026 exercise, scheduled from April 20 to May 8 in the kingdom. The U.S. military and several African armed forces will jointly conduct the exercise.
USAREUR-AF will lead the program and will equip African militaries with operational drone capabilities. Sixteen soldiers from partner nations will participate in the initial training phase. The program will include two components: integrating drones into operational planning and handling various drone systems.
This initiative will strengthen military cooperation between Washington and its African partners. It comes as drones gain rapid prominence in global security operations. Armed forces are increasingly deploying drones for surveillance, intelligence gathering, and intervention missions. Moreover, drones often deliver greater cost-efficiency than conventional military equipment.
The expansion of drone usage is driving sustained market growth. Fortune Business Insights estimates that the global military drone market will reach $30.9 billion by 2034, compared with $18.2 billion in 2025 and $20.8 billion in 2026.
African countries are also increasing their interest in drone technologies to address border surveillance, trafficking, and infrastructure security challenges. However, adoption remains uneven across the continent. While lighter and more accessible models are spreading gradually, advanced systems with intelligence and strike capabilities remain costly for many countries.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Namibia plans to invest about $1 million to boost cybersecurity capabilities.
- The initiative forms part of a broader 682 million Namibian dollar ICT budget for 2026/2027.
- Authorities aim to strengthen NAM-CSIRT and address rising cyber threats, including 1.2 million attacks recorded in 2024.
Namibian authorities plan to invest 17.4 million Namibian dollars (about $1 million) in cybersecurity and other key areas in the coming months. The government aims to expand national capabilities in this strategic sector.
This funding forms part of the 682 million Namibian dollars allocated to the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) for the 2026/2027 fiscal year. Information and Communication Technology Minister Emma Theofelus presented this budget to Parliament last week, according to local media.
The minister stated that authorities will center actions around the Namibia Cyber Security Incident Response Team (NAM-CSIRT). The government will use the funds to support the implementation of the cybercrime bill, establish a 24/7 security operations center, and develop a national digital forensics laboratory. Authorities will also strengthen national cybersecurity frameworks.
This budget supports broader efforts to secure Namibia’s cyberspace. Authorities launched NAM-CSIRT in July with an initial budget of 20 million Namibian dollars. The government created this entity as the central national authority responsible for managing cyber threats and cybersecurity incidents.
NAM-CSIRT aims to strengthen the security and stability of critical infrastructure and information systems across Namibia, including public institutions, agencies, and other key sectors.
Authorities are also developing complementary initiatives. These include a mobile application that allows users to report scams, receive real-time alerts, and access online safety guidance. The government is also advancing public awareness campaigns and drafting legislation on cybercrime and data protection.
These efforts come amid accelerated digital transformation and a rise in cyber threats. NAM-CSIRT detected 549,556 IT vulnerabilities across Namibia’s digital landscape between April and June 2025. This figure represents a 1.62% increase compared with the previous quarter.
Authorities recorded 1.2 million cyberattacks in 2024. These figures highlight growing risks to the country’s digital infrastructure.
Namibia currently ranks in Tier 4, the second-lowest cohort, of the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Cybersecurity Index. The country performs relatively well in organizational measures, with a score of 16.35 out of 20.
However, Namibia must improve in other areas, including the legal framework, technical measures, capacity building, and international cooperation. The country recorded an overall score of 36.93 out of 100.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
- Nigeria plans to deploy more than 5,000 AI-powered surveillance cameras in Plateau State.
- Authorities will begin deployment in Jos before expanding nationwide.
- The initiative raises questions over infrastructure, data reliability, and short-term effectiveness.
The Nigerian government plans to deploy a network of more than 5,000 digital cameras integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to strengthen security in Plateau State, in central Nigeria. Authorities state that this initiative builds on systems already deployed in Lagos and Enugu states.
President Tinubu: FG to Deploy AI-Enabled Camera Networks to Combat Insecurity in Plateau. pic.twitter.com/608mMEHPxX
— Presidency Nigeria (@NGRPresident) April 3, 2026
President Bola Tinubu announced the plan on Thursday, April 2, during an address in Jos, the state capital recently hit by a deadly attack. He stated that Communications and Digital Economy Minister Bosun Tijjani will oversee the installation of the devices in coordination with local authorities and security agencies.
The government will begin deployment in Jos before extending the system across the state.
However, authorities have not provided details on the system’s technical specifications or operational framework.
Nguuma Tyokaha, an ICT expert, said in a March interview with Radio Nigeria that Nigeria can significantly reduce kidnappings and other security threats through artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and locally adapted smart surveillance systems.
He stated that AI can analyze large volumes of data, identify patterns, and support decision-making despite not being human. He added that these capabilities make AI a strategic tool for modern security operations.
Tyokaha explained that these technologies can anticipate kidnapping hotspots by using historical data such as locations, timing, victim profiles, and criminal methods. He said systems can generate “heat maps” to identify high-risk areas, enabling authorities and communities to implement preventive measures.
Authorities are introducing this technology within a broader digital transformation strategy. The government aims to expand ICT integration across sectors to support socio-economic development and address structural challenges.
Insecurity remains one of the most pressing issues. For example, an armed attack on March 29 killed around 30 people. The country also faces ransom kidnappings, intercommunal violence, and attacks attributed to armed and terrorist groups.
Authorities have not specified a deployment timeline, although the government statement refers to “immediate” implementation. This lack of clarity raises questions about execution modalities and short-term effectiveness.
Observers also question whether existing infrastructure can support such a system. They highlight concerns about local technical capacity and the availability of reliable and up-to-date data required to ensure system relevance.
This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Gabon is finalizing a national digital strategy structured around five core pillars.
- The government has increased its 2026 digital economy budget by 156.2% to CFA82 billion ($145 million).
- Authorities aim to centralize governance and reduce fragmentation across public information systems.
The Gabonese government is adopting a structured approach to connect public administrations, optimize data management, and improve access to services. Authorities are finalizing a national roadmap to guide this transformation.
Digital Economy Minister Mark Alexandre Doumba presented the main orientations of the future national digital strategy on Friday, April 3 in Libreville. He unveiled the framework document at the headquarters of the National Agency for Digital Infrastructure and Frequencies (ANINF) during a meeting with senior public administration IT officials. He stated that the document sets the country’s trajectory to modernize the state and strengthen service delivery to citizens and businesses.
The strategy relies on five core pillars. The government will pursue reforms and implement an appropriate regulatory framework. It will develop digital infrastructure. It will digitize and dematerialize public services and payments. It will promote national entrepreneurship and develop local skills. It will also transition toward a smart administration and economy based on structured and valorized data.
The minister stated that these pillars aim to reduce fragmentation across information systems, improve interoperability between administrations, and establish centralized management of digital projects at thenational level.
This initiative builds on an ongoing digital transformation process. The ministry has allocated CFA82 billion (about $145 million) for 2026. The government increased this budget by 156.2% from CFA32 billion in 2025.
The government will prioritize investments in connectivity, infrastructure modernization, and public service digitization. It will also support skills development and data governance.
Authorities have not yet disclosed detailed contours or an implementation timeline. However, the government aims to break with fragmented management of digital projects by introducing centralized governance. It will rely on sectoral master plans and strengthened oversight of information systems.
Gabon already operates under a solid legal framework. The government aims to build a unified, coherent, and sovereign digital strategy to improve public sector performance and enhance service delivery to citizens.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Africa’s digital economy could reach $180 billion by 2025 and $712 billion by 2050, according to IFC and Google.
- Governments are investing in tech hubs to structure innovation ecosystems and attract capital.
- More than 1,000 tech hubs operated in Africa in 2024, up from fewer than 600 in 2019.
African countries are accelerating the creation of technology hubs to structure innovation and capture a growing share of the global digital economy. Governments are investing in dedicated spaces that bring together startups, research centers, universities, and large companies. They aim to replicate, at their scale, the model of global Silicon Valleys.
Early Leaders Build Structured Ecosystems
Some ecosystems have already established themselves as benchmarks. Nairobi, known as the “Silicon Savannah,” relies on an innovation ecosystem structured around fintech and mobile services. The success of M-Pesa has helped position Kenya as one of the most advanced markets in digital payments. The Konza Technopolis project, a technology city under development, illustrates this ambition with multi-billion-dollar long-term investment plans.
Nigeria’s Lagos is emerging as the continent’s leading technology hub. The country attracts a significant share of venture capital funding in Africa. Dedicated zones such as Itana (formerly Talent City Lagos) and the Ekiti Knowledge Zone support this momentum by creating environments tailored to innovation and technology companies.
Kigali is pursuing a proactive strategy. The Kigali Innovation City project, valued at around $2 billion and spanning 70 hectares, aims to bring together universities, research centers, and companies in an integrated ecosystem supported by attractive public policies.
These hubs share common characteristics. They concentrate talent, host incubators and accelerators, provide dedicated infrastructure, and attract increasing investor interest.
A New Generation of Hubs Emerges
Beyond these pioneers, a new wave of projects is intensifying competition among African countries.
In Morocco, authorities are preparing to launch Casa Tech Valley in Casablanca. The project will cover 6.5 hectares in the Sidi Othmane district. It will build on the existing Casablanca Nearshore ecosystem and aims to attract high-value technology investments while creating thousands of jobs.
In Benin, Sèmè City is already operating as a model that combines education, entrepreneurship, and research in one location. Authorities expect at least 130,000 graduates from the International Institute of Science and Innovation (CIIS) by 2030. They also aim to create more than 100,000 jobs over the same period, including at least one-third self-employment and 40% for women.
In Guinea, the City of Science and Innovation of Guinea, launched in 2024, reflects the ambition to structure a national technology ecosystem.
Other initiatives are emerging across the continent. Senegal is developing the Diamniadio Digital Technology Park, while Gabon is planning a future technology village. These projects highlight a now widespread dynamic.
Infrastructure-Led Continental Strategy
The International Trade Centre (ITC) reports that Africa had more than 1,000 tech hubs in 2024, compared with fewer than 600 recorded by GSMA in 2019. This increase reflects a strategic shift. Governments are no longer only supporting startups; they are now investing in infrastructure capable of structuring complete ecosystems.
These hubs concentrate resources, foster synergies among stakeholders, and gradually attract investment. They are becoming essential levers to support sustainable innovation and strengthen the continent’s competitiveness in the global digital economy.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Tunisia completed 20 digital projects in Q1 2026 while 121 remain in progress out of 192
- The government is advancing reforms including e-invoicing, digital tax systems and online public services
- The country ranks first in North Africa and third in Africa in the UN’s 2024 E-Government Survey
Tunisia accelerated the digitalization of its public administration as it completed 20 digital projects in the first quarter of 2026 and advanced dozens of others. The government reported that 121 projects are currently in progress out of a total of 192 initiatives launched nationwide. Sofiene Hemissi announced the figures on April 2 during a session at the National Council of Regions and Districts.
The government is advancing several major digital reforms across ministries and public services. The minister highlighted the planned rollout of electronic invoicing within the Ministry of Finance, which authorities expect to deploy in the third quarter of 2026. The reform aims to strengthen transparency and improve tax fairness.
In addition, the government is developing other key projects, including electronic tax stamps, remote payment of vehicle tax and the introduction of an online tax identification system.
Moreover, the authorities are expanding digitalization across strategic sectors. They are developing online administrative services, implementing digital hospital systems and digitizing education systems and transport services. These reforms form part of a national digital transformation strategy that Tunisia has been structuring since 2024.
The government aims to modernize public action and improve administrative efficiency. It is deploying digital infrastructure, strengthening skills and progressively digitizing procedures across all public sectors.
The transition should improve transparency, reduce administrative delays and expand citizen access to public services. Furthermore, the reforms are strengthening Tunisia’s international positioning in digital governance rankings.
According to the “E-Government Survey 2024” published by the United Nations, Tunisia ranks first in North Africa, third in Africa and 87th globally. The country recorded an E-Government Development Index score of 0.6935, which stands above the African average and reflects its progress and ambitions in digital governance.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
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DR Congo signs a memorandum to digitize and interconnect its education system nationwide
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Government integrates reform into a 2024–2029 strategic plan focused on digital transformation
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Authorities expand digital training to 250,000 youth to support workforce readiness
The Ministry of National Education and New Citizenship (MINEDU-NC) and the Universal Service Development Fund (FDSU) signed a memorandum of understanding in Kinshasa on April 2. The agreement aims to strengthen digital integration across the country’s education system.
The initiative seeks to modernize the management of schools, administrative offices, and provincial education departments. It also aims to ensure secure and reliable circulation of educational data.
Paterne Binene-A-Kadiat, Director General of the FDSU, said the framework will connect central administration, provincial departments, management offices, and schools.
“This collaboration framework, which provides for the interconnection of central administration, provincial departments, management offices and schools, aims to facilitate information flow, data management and improve education system management at all levels,” he said.
The memorandum defines an integrated education ecosystem based on five pillars. Authorities structured the system around global interconnection, interoperability of information systems, institutional oversight, data reliability and traceability, and modern digital governance.
The plan includes the deployment of secure digital platforms, interoperable information systems, and digital equipment for schools. The FDSU will act as the technical arm for digital inclusion and will expand access to technology in rural and peri-urban areas. This expansion aims to reduce the digital divide across the country.
The partnership aligns with the ministry’s 2024–2029 five-year plan, which positions digital transformation as a strategic lever for education reform. Authorities are integrating this initiative into broader national priorities.
The agreement complements a national digital training program targeting 250,000 young Congolese. Officials launched the operational phase of this program on February 12 with the training of 200 instructors in Kinshasa.
Authorities expect these measures to deliver a more connected education system and centralized data management. The government also aims to improve transparency and operational efficiency across the sector.
In addition, the reforms seek to better prepare young people for digital careers, reinforcing workforce readiness while supporting long-term economic development.
Samira Njoya
- Internet freedom levels vary widely across African countries, with Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, and Seychelles leading.
- Some countries, including Sudan and Egypt, impose severe digital restrictions.
- Internet shutdowns cost sub-Saharan Africa $1.11 billion in 2025 despite a slight decline from 2024.
Internet access continues to expand across Africa, but online freedom remains highly uneven depending on the country, reflecting political and socio-economic dynamics, according to a recent report.
A report published in mid-March by Cloudwards shows that some countries provide relatively open digital environments, while others impose strict restrictions that limit online expression and innovation.
The report, titled “Mapped: Internet Freedom by Country in 2026,” evaluates internet freedom on a scale from 0 to 100. It measures access to political and civic content, social media usage, and VPN access. It also assesses censorship practices, platform blocking, and potential penalties faced by users, offering a comprehensive view of both technical access and actual freedom of expression online.
Contrasting Levels of Digital Freedom Across Countries
Across Africa, several countries record relatively high levels of internet freedom. Cabo Verde ranks highest on the continent with a score of 84, alongside Côte d’Ivoire and Seychelles, which post identical scores.
A second group of countries—including Benin, Niger, Gambia, and Liberia—follows with scores of 76, reflecting generally open digital environments. Ghana completes the leading group with a score of 72.
Meanwhile, a middle-tier group—including Angola, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mali, and Mauritius—records intermediate scores of 68, indicating moderate freedom levels with some limitations.
By contrast, countries such as Sudan and Egypt rank among the most restrictive, each scoring 12, highlighting severe constraints on online content and digital expression.
Between these extremes, most African countries fall into an intermediate category. Morocco, South Africa, Cameroon, Tunisia, and Rwanda each score around 56, reflecting mixed environments with both openness and constraints.
Costly Digital Restrictions
Beyond governance concerns, digital restrictions impose significant economic costs.
A separate report titled “The Cost of Internet Shutdowns in 2025” by Top10VPN estimates that internet shutdowns cost sub-Saharan Africa approximately $1.11 billion in 2025.
This figure marks a slight decline from 2024, when losses reached $1.56 billion. However, the economic impact remains substantial amid continued disruptions.
In 2025, authorities recorded more than 24,000 hours of internet shutdowns, affecting approximately 116 million users across the region. These disruptions most often occurred during political tensions, elections, or security crises and directly impacted digital economies and access to essential services.
Globally, such shutdowns generated estimated losses of $19.7 billion.
Samira Njoya
African Countries, by Internet Freedom Score (2026)
Country Score
Cape Verde 84
Ivory Coast 84
Seychelles 84
Benin 76
Gambia 76
Liberia 76
Madagascar 76
Namibia 76
Niger 76
Ghana 72
Angola 68
DR Congo 68
Gabon 68
Malawi 68
Mali 68
Mauritius 68
Mozambique 68
Congo 68
Senegal 68
Botswana 64
Central African Republic 64
Guinea-Bissau 64
Lesotho 64
Morocco 64
Nigeria 64
South Africa 64
Mauritania 60
Burundi 56
Cameroon 56
Chad 56
Eswatini 56
Guinea 56
Rwanda 56
Tunisia 56
Kenya 52
Zambia 52
Algeria 48
Burkina Faso 48
Djibouti 48
Togo 48
Zimbabwe 48
Somalia 44
Equatorial Guinea 36
Ethiopia 36
Libya 28
Tanzania 28
Uganda 24
Egypt 12
Sudan 12
- Senegal joins a regional $718,200 digital circular economy initiative across four countries.
- The program targets SMEs with digital tools to improve waste valorization.
- Africa dumps or burns nearly 90% of its waste, underscoring urgent reform needs.
Senegal has launched the Digital Innovation for Circular Economy (DICE) Africa project to address mounting waste management challenges through digital innovation.
Authorities introduced the initiative on March 30 as part of a regional program also deployed in Nigeria, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. The program aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the circular economy and improve waste valorization using digital solutions.
The initiative seeks to remove structural constraints in the sector while strengthening economic and social opportunities linked to waste management.
The Nigeria Climate Innovation Center (NCIC) leads the project with support from Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). The program operates with a budget of about 1 million Canadian dollars (approximately $718,200) over 30 months across the four countries. The initiative combines research, capacity building, and funding mobilization to create a sustainable ecosystem around the circular economy.
Oluwatosin Ajide, DICE Africa coordinator, said the program places local innovation at its core. He added that organizers will identify grassroots solutions capable of addressing sector-specific challenges.
Ajide said the program will organize a hackathon to stimulate innovation among Senegalese talent and develop digital tools tailored to the needs of circular economy businesses. These tools will support the rollout of a national digital platform designed to facilitate exchanges and improve SME competitiveness.
Waste management remains a major challenge across Africa as volumes rise and collection systems struggle to keep pace. The African Clean Cities Platform estimates that nearly 90% of waste generated on the continent is dumped in uncontrolled landfills or burned in open air.
Senegal produces more than 3 million tonnes of waste annually, while sub-Saharan Africa hosts 19 of the world’s 50 largest dumpsites and could become the largest waste-producing region over time.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- DR Congo launches a national digital university portal integrating its first digital library.
- The platform centralizes academic data and services to improve governance and efficiency.
- Internet penetration stands at 30.5%, highlighting infrastructure challenges to adoption.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has launched a national digital portal to modernize its higher education system and expand access to academic resources. The government inaugurated the platform on March 30 in Kinshasa under the Higher Education, University, Scientific Research and Innovation (ESURSI) framework. The portal integrates the country’s first national digital library and provides unified access to educational and scientific content for students, teachers, and researchers.
The World Bank and the French Development Agency (AFD) support the initiative, which aims to reduce inequalities in access to knowledge, particularly between urban and rural areas.
The platform already offers several services, including academic pathway management, student identification, equivalency processing, and modules for scholarships and assessments. The system establishes the foundation for a harmonized and secure national academic infrastructure.
Marie-Thérèse Sombo, Minister of Higher and University Education, said the government will expand the platform progressively.
“In a phased approach, this portal will also integrate a national open and distance learning platform to democratize access to education, a system for archiving scientific output […] and advanced digital services to support academic management,” she said.
Beyond access to content, the reform aims to improve governance across the university system. Authorities expect centralized data to improve student tracking, enhance diploma credibility, and reduce fragmentation across information systems.
The country’s participation in the “Gateways” initiative, led by UNESCO and UNICEF, aligns the reform with international standards. However, infrastructure remains a major constraint.
DataReportal reported that DR Congo had 34.7 million internet users by the end of 2025, representing a penetration rate of 30.5%. In this context, broadband access and the adoption of digital tools by public administrations and academic institutions will determine the platform’s effectiveness.
Authorities must now transform the portal from a technical tool into a lever for modernization capable of supporting public governance, scientific production, and, ultimately, the national digital ecosystem.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
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- Rwanda’s Parliament approved the draft law’s explanatory memorandum to regulate virtual asset activities.
- Authorities aim to curb fraud, money laundering, and financing while protecting investors.
- The bill introduces a supervisory authority to oversee crypto service providers in coordination with the central bank.
Rwanda’s Parliament approved on Tuesday, March 31, the explanatory memorandum of a draft law designed to regulate activities related to virtual assets. The bill seeks to establish a clear legal framework for a fast-growing sector while balancing investor protection with support for digital innovation.
The draft law aims to prevent risks linked to money laundering and terrorism financing, according to the official document. It also seeks to protect consumers from the speculative nature of digital assets and to ensure market integrity and transparency.
Today, the Chamber of Deputies approved the rationale of the draft law regulating virtual assets in Rwanda. The law aims to create a safe and clear framework for this growing sector, protecting investors while supporting innovation.
— Ministry of Finance & Economic Planning (@RwandaFinance) March 31, 2026
The draft law will now move to the commission… pic.twitter.com/HmF6Oq2AiV
Moreover, the legislation aims to preserve financial stability by limiting systemic risks arising from the increasing interconnection between digital assets and the traditional financial system.
The proposal introduces a structured regulatory framework, including the designation of a supervisory authority tasked with overseeing virtual asset service providers in coordination with the central bank.
It also covers key activities such as exchange platforms, conversion services between fiat currencies and digital assets, and public offerings of crypto-assets. These offerings will now face enhanced disclosure requirements.
This initiative comes amid growing adoption and rising risks. Rwandan authorities have identified several fraud cases linked to fake digital asset projects.
Data presented during parliamentary discussions show that the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has recorded 35 cases involving pyramid schemes and scams tied to pseudo-cryptocurrencies, resulting in significant financial losses for the population.
By introducing a dedicated regulatory framework, authorities aim to secure market practices, strengthen trust in digital financial services, and position Rwanda in Africa’s emerging digital asset market.
The bill will now move to the relevant parliamentary committee for further review before potential adoption.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Senegal and Finland held political consultations to explore cooperation on digital infrastructure and AI-ready data centers.
- Dakar seeks to diversify technology partners to meet targets under its “New Deal technologique.”
- No formal agreement has been signed yet despite growing engagement.
On Thursday, March 26, Senegal’s Minister of Communication, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Alioune Sall, met a Finnish delegation led by Outi Holopainen, Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. The meeting took place during the second session of political consultations between Senegal and Finland.
Both delegations reviewed key digital projects, including infrastructure development, the establishment of an artificial intelligence-compatible data center, and public service connectivity. They also discussed submarine cables as well as two critical issues: disinformation and media literacy.
This engagement with Helsinki reflects Dakar’s strategy to expand its network of technology partners. Senegal requires diversified partnerships to meet the deadlines set under its “New Deal technologique” and to achieve its digital transformation objectives.
In recent months, Dakar has strengthened ties with major technology companies such as Visa and Huawei. It has also engaged with international organizations including the International Telecommunication Union and the World Bank to support its digital and technological projects.
Finland has acted within the framework of the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy. The EU launched this initiative in 2021 to build smart, secure, and reliable connections with global partners across sectors including digital.
The initiative aims to mobilize up to 300 billion euros ($345 billion) in investments to achieve these objectives. However, Senegal and Finland have not yet signed a formal agreement despite ongoing discussions and growing cooperation.
This article was initially published by Adoni Conrad Quenum
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Orange launches the 16th edition of POESAM and opens applications until May 10.
- The competition prioritizes projects using artificial intelligence, big data and cybersecurity.
- Winners receive up to €25,000 and access to funding and network support.
Orange announced on Monday, March 30 the opening of applications for the 16th edition of POESAM. Young entrepreneurs from the 17 countries where the telecom group operates have until May 10 to submit their projects through the dedicated platform.
For this edition, the initiative highlights projects that rely on technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data and cybersecurity. The program specifically targets solutions developed in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education and the environment, as these areas concentrate a significant share of Africa’s innovation needs.
The competition follows a two-phase structure. First, organizers conduct a national selection to identify the best projects in each country. Then, selected candidates advance to an international phase where the Grand Prize and a dedicated Women’s Entrepreneurship Prize are awarded.
Winners receive financial support, with prizes ranging from €10,000 to €25,000 for the top three awards, and €20,000 for the International Women’s Prize. In addition, the program provides support through Orange’s ecosystem, including networking opportunities and access to development resources.
Since its inception, POESAM has recorded more than 17,000 applications and has recognized numerous startups across the region. The initiative forms part of a broader effort by major telecom groups to support innovation in Africa and the Middle East, as technology ecosystems continue to expand.
Entrepreneurs can submit their applications online via the dedicated platform: https://POESAM.Orange.com/.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
Tunisia’s state utility, Société tunisienne de l'électricité et du gaz (STEG), has deployed advanced technologies in the Moknine region as part of a broader effort to modernize its distribution network.
The project is part of a 15-million-dinar ($5 million) pilot program funded by the U.S. government to upgrade critical electricity infrastructure.
“This project is fully aligned with STEG’s strategic vision to modernize the national electricity network and support Tunisia’s energy transition through the deployment of Smart Grid technologies,” Chief Executive Faycel Tarifa said.
The centerpiece of the Moknine site is a FLISR system — Fault Location, Isolation and Service Restoration. Deployed in partnership with U.S. companies E3-International, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories and G&W Electric, the technology automatically detects outages and restores power, reducing the need for manual intervention.
Nokia has installed a private LTE (pLTE) communications network to support operations, enabling real-time monitoring of the entire distribution system.
The project is part of a broader Smart Grid initiative to transform the electricity system into a fully connected grid capable of optimizing the entire power value chain, from generation to end users. Running from 2020 to 2026, the program combines technical studies, training and advanced technology deployment, with the aim of testing a model for nationwide rollout.
STEG accounts for nearly 96% of national electricity production, with installed capacity of about 5,944 MW across 25 power plants. The Smart Grid program aims to reduce energy losses, improve load management and support the integration of renewable energy, which is expected to reach 35% of the electricity mix by 2030.
STEG faces a dual challenge: improving efficiency to limit energy losses while supporting the energy transition through better demand management. Over time, the technologies are also expected to improve customer relations, notably through the rollout of smart meters enabling more accurate consumption tracking and billing based on actual usage.
Samira Njoya