Tech

Tech (1206)

  • 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
  • UNICEF and Maarif Foundation signed an agreement to expand digital and STEM education for girls.

  • The initiative will leverage the U-Report platform with over 3 million users to drive youth engagement.

  • Girls’ school enrollment rose to 83% in 2024 from 33% in 2011, but STEM participation remains low.

UNICEF Côte d’Ivoire and the Maarif Foundation signed a memorandum of understanding on April 7 in Abidjan. The agreement aims to strengthen digital inclusion and improve access to education for girls, with a particular focus on scientific disciplines.

The two institutions concluded the partnership after one year of negotiations. They plan to reduce gender disparities in the Ivorian education system by directing more students toward STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields, where girls remain historically underrepresented. “This protocol is an opportunity to emphasize girls’ participation in fields that are not traditionally theirs,” said Jean‑François Basse.

Moreover, the agreement includes the use of the youth digital platform U-Report. The platform, which has more than 3 million users in the country, will serve as a channel to promote civic engagement among young people, including in rural areas.

The partners aim to transform adolescents into agents of change while developing practical training programs to improve employability among the most vulnerable groups.

This collaboration comes as Ivory Coast accelerates efforts to modernize its education sector. According to data from the Ministry of National Education and Literacy, the girls’ enrollment rate increased from 33% in 2011 to 83% in 2024.

However, the transition toward technical and scientific fields remains a major challenge. The Maarif Foundation, which manages a growing international network of schools, will contribute pedagogical expertise to complement the humanitarian programs led by UNICEF.

Finally, the agreement builds on commitments made during last year’s technology festival. It also includes support for major national events such as the Fête de la Science, with the aim of creating a sustainable link between international institutions and the local education ecosystem.

 Samira Njoya

Posted On vendredi, 10 avril 2026 12:15 Written by
  • Atos and ABA Technology sign deal to deploy Fusion AI across public and private sectors
  • Partnership targets sovereign, secure AI systems in regulated environments
  • Global AI investments could exceed $1.5 trillion, boosting demand for local control of data

ABA Technology, a Moroccan artificial intelligence company, and Atos announced that they signed a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday, April 7, on the sidelines of GITEX Africa 2026 in Marrakech. The agreement aims to accelerate the deployment of the Fusion AI platform among public and private stakeholders.

The companies designed the recently launched technology to structure AI usage in complex environments while ensuring data sovereignty.

“Fusion AI meets a central requirement today: deploy governed, secure and fully operational artificial intelligence in critical environments,” said Safia Faraj, Africa Director at Atos. She added that the partnership will help organizations “move from experimentation to production” by integrating systems that automate processes while complying with strict security and regulatory standards.

Atos will act as an integrator of the platform developed by ABA Technology for its clients, particularly in the public, industrial and scientific sectors. The partners will deploy AI solutions adapted to multiple use cases, including industrial optimization, scientific research and public policy management.

They aim to deliver architectures that unify data, systems and operations within highly regulated environments.

The agreement comes amid accelerating global investment in artificial intelligence. Africa also increases its focus on technological sovereignty as a strategic priority. Estimates from Google indicate that global AI investments could exceed $1.5 trillion in the coming years, pushing governments and companies to strengthen control over infrastructure and data.

The partnership follows the launch of Fusion AI by ABA Technology one week earlier. The company designed and operates the platform from Morocco. The solution relies on a unified architecture that connects IT systems, industrial infrastructure and connected devices.

The platform includes several sector-specific applications. It allows companies to optimize industrial production through digital twins. It enables governments to improve decision-making using territorial intelligence tools. It also helps researchers accelerate biomedical research.

Through this alliance, the two partners aim to structure an artificial intelligence offering aligned with African market realities. They combine technological expertise with large-scale integration capabilities.

ABA Technology seeks to expand adoption of its platform beyond Morocco. Atos strengthens its positioning in digital sovereignty projects across the continent.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum

Posted On jeudi, 09 avril 2026 17:45 Written by
  • Morocco signs partnership with Huawei to support gaming ecosystem and talent development

  • Gaming revenues reach $227.3 million in 2024 and could hit $297 million by 2027

  • Authorities intensify efforts to structure a fragmented but fast-growing sector

Morocco accelerates the structuring of its gaming industry, which remains nascent but shows strong growth potential. On the sidelines of the GITEX Africa Morocco 2026 event in Marrakech, the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication and Huawei Morocco signed a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday, April 7, to support the development of digital and creative industries.

Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, and David Li, Chief Executive Officer of Huawei Morocco, signed the agreement. Both parties aim to consolidate a national ecosystem that remains fragmented but benefits from the rise of a new generation of developers and independent studios.

The partnership outlines several areas of intervention. It includes technical support for the Morocco Gaming Expo 2026, scheduled from May 20 to 24 in Rabat. Huawei will equip training and workshop spaces to improve learning conditions and allow developers to test their projects in a suitable environment.

The agreement also includes support for local talent. Huawei will back Moroccan teams participating in international initiatives led by the Chinese group. The ministry will also provide targeted support to five selected developers.

This approach aims to increase the visibility of Moroccan profiles and facilitate their integration into global value chains.

Morocco now positions gaming beyond entertainment. Stakeholders view the sector as a creative industry with strong potential to create jobs, attract investment, and develop advanced digital skills.

According to the “State of the African Video Game Industry 2026” report by SpielFabrique, published in January 2026, annual gaming revenues in Morocco reached $227.3 million in 2024. Projections indicate growth to $297 million by 2027.

Public authorities continue to expand initiatives to structure the gaming ecosystem. The government supports startup incubation programs and develops dedicated hubs such as Rabat Gaming City. It also promotes public-private partnerships to connect local talent with global markets.

The agreement with Huawei Morocco extends this broader strategy. It follows an earlier partnership focused on developing local e-sports. Authorities implemented that initiative in collaboration with Rabat Gaming City, the Royal Moroccan Federation of Electronic Games (FRMJE), and innovative training programs.

Samira Njoya

Posted On mercredi, 08 avril 2026 16:42 Written by
  • The United States will launch Africa’s first regional drone training center in Morocco, starting with a pilot during African Lion 2026.

  • Sixteen soldiers from partner countries will receive operational drone training in planning and system handling.

  • 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

Posted On mercredi, 08 avril 2026 12:28 Written by
  • 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

 

Posted On mercredi, 08 avril 2026 08:00 Written by
  • 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 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

 

Posted On mercredi, 08 avril 2026 06:46 Written by
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