Tech (883)
The role of North-South cooperation is critical in advancing innovation across Africa. Such partnerships enable technology transfer, provide crucial funding, and support entrepreneurial endeavors, thereby stimulating the growth of local startups and improving the continent's competitive standing.
France and Senegal are moving to strengthen their digital sector cooperation, with a focus on supporting young entrepreneurs. French Minister Delegate for Francophonie and International Partnerships, Thani Mohamed-Soilihi, visited Senegal's General Delegation for Rapid Entrepreneurship of Women and Youth (DER/FJ) on Monday, March 10, to review existing partnerships and explore new avenues for collaboration in digital technology and innovation.
The visit aimed to accelerate the growth of Senegalese tech startups and bolster support for young entrepreneurs.
"We are in Senegal to strengthen the partnership between France and Senegal. A win-win partnership, and I am very proud to see here that the French Development Agency (AFD) and other operators, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), are helping to promote these crucial and innovative projects for Senegalese youth. France is committed to establishing this new partnership agenda that respects our historical ties," Mohamed-Soilihi said.
The visit comes amid increased cooperation between the two nations in innovation and entrepreneurship. Through initiatives like Choose Africa 2, France is actively backing young African entrepreneurs. The DER/FJ, in partnership with the AFD and other stakeholders, has facilitated the creation of 74,000 jobs and supported 10,000 entrepreneurial initiatives, including 40 startups in collaboration with HEC Paris.
Projects such as Game Hub Senegal and Anim’Lab provide young talent with training and hands-on experience in digital creation.
The visit also raised the prospect of the AFD signing the second phase of the Innovation Valorization Support Program (PAVI 2), which would enhance young entrepreneurs' access to financing and technical assistance.
These potential partnerships align with Senegal's New Technological Deal, the country’s national digital transformation strategy. The ambitious program aims to certify 500 technology startups and create 150,000 direct jobs by 2034, positioning innovation as a key driver of Senegal’s economic growth and competitiveness.
Securing identity authentication is a critical challenge across online transactions, public services, and data protection. Given the swift evolution of fraud techniques, enhanced by technological progress, African nations are compelled to reinforce their systems without delay.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI), a rapidly growing technology, is revolutionizing numerous sectors. However, in Africa, as elsewhere, it is also being exploited for malicious purposes. Fraudsters are using these tools to create fake documents, synthetic voices, and hyper-realistic images, facilitating sophisticated scams and financial crimes. This new wave of AI-driven fraud presents major challenges in security and identity verification, according to Smile ID's report, "2025 Digital Identity: Fraud in Africa Report – Trends, Tactics, and Key Solutions to Tackle Fraud Effectively."
Biometric Fraud Explosion
One of the most concerning aspects of this trend is the increase in biometric fraud attacks. With the availability of free or low-cost AI tools, fraudsters can now produce deepfakes (fake videos or audio recordings) and high-quality fake selfies. According to recent data, deepfake-related incidents increased sevenfold between the second and fourth quarters of last year. Selfie anomalies, used to bypass verification systems, now account for 34% of emerging biometric fraud cases.
These techniques allow criminals to create fake identities or manipulate existing biometric data, making traditional security systems increasingly vulnerable. West Africa recorded the highest rise in biometric fraud cases in 2024. Cases of identity theft have increased in the region, representing 15% of biometric fraud cases, compared to less than 5% in 2023.
Traditional Verification Methods Under Threat
Faced with these technological advances, traditional identity verification methods seem increasingly outdated. Generative AI allows fraudsters to imitate individuals in real-time with unsettling realism. Security systems based on facial recognition or document verification are now vulnerable to high-quality falsifications.
Experts point out that the easy access to generative AI tools has paved the way for an industrialization of fraud. Criminals can mass-produce fake documents, photos, and videos, exposing major flaws in current protection systems. Among the most striking examples of this new era of fraud is OnlyFake, an underground platform that uses advanced neural networks to produce impressively high-quality fake identity documents. For just $15 per document, users can generate convincing documents capable of deceiving digital verification systems. OnlyFake perfectly illustrates how generative AI has eliminated the technical barriers once exclusive to expert counterfeiters.
Beyond the use of AI, which is growing in biometric fraud, Smile ID indicates that other techniques are also being implemented, notably document fraud and identity farming.
Document fraud involves manipulating or falsifying identity documents. This includes counterfeiting, altering genuine documents, and obscuring essential information. Emerging techniques include on-screen document manipulation, portrait anomalies, and the submission of altered photocopies or scanned documents.
As for identity farming, it involves collecting large amounts of personal information, often through illegal means, to facilitate fraud. This data is used to create synthetic identities, take control of existing accounts, or open fraudulent accounts.
Increasing Financial Losses
The growing use of identity fraud techniques in Africa has had significant consequences. Despite improvements in Know Your Customer (KYC) processes, financial losses due to fraud have increased in major markets. In Nigeria, banks reported losses of 42.6 billion naira ($28.2 million) due to fraud in the second quarter of 2024 alone, surpassing the total losses of 9.4 billion naira for the entire year 2023. Similar trends have been observed in South Africa, Ghana, Zambia, and other key African markets.
East Africa recorded the highest rate of reported biometric and document fraud attempts in Africa, at 27% in 2024. According to Smile ID, this phenomenon is mainly due to outdated, inconsistent, and low-quality identity documents in countries such as Zambia, Rwanda, and Sudan, which continue to hinder verification processes. West Africa saw a significant increase in its rate from 12% in 2023 to 22% in 2024, due to the rise in biometric fraud attempts. Central and Southern Africa recorded respective rates of 22% and 21%.
Digital banks recorded a peak in fraud attempts, accounting for 35% of all biometric and document verifications in 2024, followed by microfinance at 30%. These institutions remain prime targets for sophisticated schemes combining identity fraud, account takeovers, and money laundering.
National identity cards recorded the highest fraud rate in Africa in 2024, at 27%, reflecting their widespread use as the main form of identification. Driver’s licenses followed at 24%, due to their frequent use in both formal and informal contexts, increasing their exposure to misuse. Passports had a fraud rate of 20%.
Race Against Time
To address this threat, governments, financial institutions, and technology companies must step up their efforts. Innovative solutions, such as integrating AI to detect deepfakes or strengthening biometric verification systems, are already being explored. However, the speed at which fraudsters adapt their techniques makes this race against time particularly complex.
In Africa, where digital security systems are still developing in many countries, the impact of these frauds could be devastating. International collaboration and increased investment in detection technologies will be essential to counter this growing threat, Smile ID emphasizes. Generative AI, while promising in many areas, thus presents a dual challenge for the continent: harnessing its potential while protecting against its malicious uses.
Expanding access to cloud and AI tools paves the way for small businesses, startups, and government services to embrace digital transformation, enhancing efficiency and accessibility. With this investment, South African businesses will be better positioned to integrate AI and cloud computing, driving productivity gains and streamlining operations.
On March 6, Microsoft announced plans to invest ZAR 5.4 billion ($297,664,532) in South Africa to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure by the end of 2027. This investment will support the growing demand for Azure services while enabling businesses, government entities, and startups to harness the power of AI and cloud computing to drive efficiency and innovation.
Speaking on the announcement, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of Microsoft’s long-standing commitment to South Africa, stating: “The strategic investment announcements made by Microsoft today stands as further testimony to this enduring confidence. They signal to the business and investor community that South Africa’s economy continues to hold immense potential and that it is a favourable place to do business where their investments are secure.”
As part of its commitment, Microsoft plans to expand its digital skills initiative over the next 12 months by sponsoring 50,000 Microsoft Certifications in high-demand fields such as AI, data science, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.
This investment builds on Microsoft’s 2024 achievements, where the company trained 150,000 people, certified 95,000, and helped 1,800 secure employment through its Skills for Jobs program. In January this year, Microsoft announced plans to provide 1 million people in South Africa with artificial intelligence (AI) training opportunities by 2026.
South Africa grapples with a significant digital skills gap, limiting its capacity to compete effectively in the global digital economy. A 2020 survey by Harambee, South Africa's Youth Employment Accelerator, titled Mapping of Digital and ICT Roles and Demand for South Africa, found that the country's shortage of technical skills led to the outsourcing of over 28,800 digital and ICT jobs each year. This resulted in an estimated annual loss of R8.5 billion ($55 million) in export revenue. Efforts like Microsoft’s initiative seek to bridge the gap by strengthening digital competencies across multiple sectors.
By strengthening its cloud and AI infrastructure, Microsoft aims to empower South Africa and the broader continent with the tools needed to compete globally, foster local enterprise development, and drive economic growth.
Hikmatu Bilali
The rising tide of cyberattacks poses a significant challenge to Africa's economic stability and digital development. Enhanced cooperation is essential to safeguard the continent's infrastructure.
Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky signed a three-year strategic memorandum of understanding with Smart Africa, an alliance of more than 40 African countries committed to the continent’s digital transformation, on Wednesday, March 5. The partnership aims to strengthen cybersecurity in Africa through skills development, policy harmonization, and the reinforcement of critical infrastructure.
"This MoU marks a significant milestone in our quest to secure Africa’s digital future. By joining forces with Kaspersky, we are not only building essential cybersecurity skills and bridging the gender gap but also setting the stage for robust regional cooperation and state-of-the-art cyber infrastructure," said Lacina Koné, CEO of Smart Africa.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve the digital resilience of African nations. According to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, the low level of cybersecurity preparedness costs African states an average of 10% of their GDP, amounting to nearly $4 billion per year, solely due to cybercrime. The African Network of Cybersecurity Authorities (ANCA), recently launched by Smart Africa, represents a first step toward more effective intergovernmental cooperation on cybersecurity.
Through the agreement, Africa will benefit from advanced training programs via the Kaspersky Academy, support in developing appropriate regulatory frameworks, and the establishment of security operations centers (SOCs). By making cybersecurity a priority in the continent’s digital transformation, the collaboration aims to create a safer, more inclusive, and resilient digital space for the years ahead.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Global digital transformation is reshaping industries, and the automotive sector is no exception, with the increasing integration of information and communication technology (ICT) in vehicles. Tunisia is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on these emerging technologies, particularly electric and smart vehicles.
Tunisia is positioning itself to become a major player in the smart vehicle industry, as highlighted during the second steering committee meeting of the "Automotive Smart City" project on Tuesday, March 4. The initiative aims to establish a smart city dedicated to the electric and intelligent vehicle sector, enhancing Tunisia’s role as a strategic hub and boosting its global competitiveness.
The smart vehicle market is expanding rapidly, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, connectivity, and autonomous driving technologies. A report by consulting firm Modor Intelligence estimates that the automotive artificial intelligence market, valued at $2.3 billion in 2024, will grow to $16.2 billion by 2026, fueled by strong consumer demand and government efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Tunisia’s Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, said the project aligns with the country’s national strategy for industry and innovation. It also supports the Pact for the Competitiveness of the Automotive Equipment and Components Manufacturing Sector by 2027. The initiative is expected to increase export revenues to 13.5 billion dinars ($4.4 billion) by 2027 and create 150,000 new jobs in the coming years.
The project is part of broader efforts to strengthen Tunisia’s automotive sector, which has already demonstrated significant growth. Tunisia ranks second in Africa for automotive component exports, underscoring the sector’s potential and its growing contribution to the national economy.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Many small businesses still operate in cash-based systems with limited access to digital financial services. This initiative ensures that more businesses can participate in the digital economy, improving efficiency and security.
Payments technology company Flutterwave has partnered with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to enhance digital payment solutions for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country. This collaboration aims to provide businesses with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
Flutterwave CEO Olugbenga ‘GB’ Agboola emphasized the company’s dedication to supporting Nigerian businesses. “As a business with Nigerian roots, we understand the challenges that small businesses face daily. This partnership ensures they have the financial tools they need to succeed in today’s digital economy.” By leveraging Flutterwave’s technology, MSMEs will be better equipped to navigate the evolving business landscape.
Aligned with SMEDAN’s Grow Nigerian initiative, the partnership will provide MSMEs with secure digital storefronts, seamless payment solutions, and improved financial access. Through this, businesses will be able to accept payments globally via mobile wallets, card payments, and bank transfers enhancing their reach and competitiveness.
Highlighting the impact of this initiative, SMEDAN Director-General and CEO Charles Odii noted, “One of the biggest challenges MSMEs face is access to digital tools, financial resources, and training that can help them scale. With Flutterwave as our partner, we have a solid ally providing Nigerian businesses with innovative solutions that will enable them to compete effectively on a global scale.”
Building on its longstanding support for small businesses, Flutterwave has consistently introduced initiatives such as the Flutterwave Store, small business grants, annual trade fairs, and the ‘Keeping the Lights On’ campaign, which has helped thousands of businesses remain operational despite economic challenges. The partnership with SMEDAN further strengthens Flutterwave’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs.
This latest development follows NITDA’s February announcement of a partnership with Flutterwave, Alami a fintech offering sharia-compliant financing for SMEs and SMEDAN. Together, these initiatives signal a broader push toward digital and financial inclusion for small businesses in Nigeria.
The significance of this collaboration is further underscored by the role SMEs play in Nigeria’s economy. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Office in Nigeria, SMEs contribute 48% of the national GDP, make up 96% of all businesses, and provide 84% of employment. As digital solutions become increasingly critical to business success, partnerships like this one will help ensure that Nigerian MSMEs remain competitive and continue to drive economic growth.
Hikmatu Bilali
The increasing prevalence of fake diplomas, driven by readily available technology, seriously undermines global education standards. However, blockchain technology presents promising solutions to combat this growing issue.
The Tunisian government has adopted a blockchain-based diploma verification system across its higher education institutions, aiming to combat widespread fraud.
The move follows a 2023 investigation by the Tunisian Association for the Fight Against Corruption, which revealed that an estimated 120,000 to 200,000 civil servants were allegedly hired between 2011 and 2021 using fake diplomas.
On Friday, February 28, Tunisia implemented the Unified Arab System for Diploma Authenticity Verification, utilizing blockchain technology. The system stores each diploma as a unique, secure, and tamper-proof block, protecting academic records from forgery, fraud, and unauthorized modifications. Institutions, employers, and stakeholders can instantly verify diploma authenticity, bypassing lengthy administrative processes.
The use of blockchain in higher education is not new. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) implemented a secure digital diploma program on blockchain in 2017. In Africa, similar initiatives are emerging. Some Nigerian universities are experimenting with blockchain-recorded diplomas to ensure authenticity and simplify verification.
A study by Market Research Future projects the blockchain market applied to education could reach $1.3 billion by 2030, with an estimated annual growth rate of 33.7%. This growth reflects increased adoption of the technology by educational institutions seeking secure and simplified diploma management.
In Tunisia, the project is part of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research’s digital transformation strategy. It aims to ensure diploma integrity, develop digital skills, and modernize the education sector. The initiative stems from a November 2024 cooperation agreement between Tunisia and the Arab League Educational, Cultural, and Scientific Organization (ALECSO). A pilot project in three Tunisian institutions demonstrated the solution's effectiveness, leading to nationwide implementation.
Beyond combating fraud, the innovation is expected to facilitate academic and professional mobility by ensuring immediate and unquestionable recognition of diplomas nationally and internationally. It also represents a strategic advancement for Tunisia’s education system, strengthening the credibility and competitiveness of its universities globally.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Successful digital transformation requires identifying challenges and implementing effective solutions. In Madagascar, key obstacles include limited infrastructure access, high connectivity costs, and a digital skills shortage.
Madagascar's Ministry of Digital Development, Posts, and Telecommunications, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), launched a Digital Readiness Assessment (DRA) on Feb. 27 in Antsirabe. This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive diagnosis of the country's digital sector and identify priority actions to address existing gaps, supporting Madagascar's goal of full integration into the digital economy.
In recent years, the has made significant progress, notably through the development of mobile money and the rise of local tech startups. However, several challenges remain. The country continues to face major structural obstacles, including limited access to digital infrastructure, high connectivity costs, and a digital skills gap.
According to DataReportal, in January 2024, the internet penetration rate in Madagascar was 20.6%, with 6.31 million users out of a total population of 30.68 million. However, this coverage remains uneven, particularly in rural areas. Regarding the cost of connectivity, the Malagasy government announced last October its intention to reduce telecommunications service tariffs to improve the population’s access to the internet. Despite these efforts, the cost of mobile internet access still represents 15.5% of the monthly gross national income (GNI) per capita, well above the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) recommendation of 2% of the monthly GNI per capita.
The digital skills gap also remains a major obstacle. The 2023-2028 Digital Strategic Plan highlights a shortage of approximately 40,000 specialized technicians needed to enable an effective digital transformation of the country. In this context, the Ministry of Digital Development has launched a program aimed at training 6,000 people in emerging digital professions over the next three years to address this urgent need.
To meet these challenges, the DRA represents a fundamental first step. This assessment is based on five key pillars: connectivity, to strengthen infrastructure and reduce the digital divide; governance, to improve coordination between sector stakeholders; regulation, to create a legal framework suited to the digital economy; businesses, to encourage innovation and technological entrepreneurship; and human capital, an investment in digital skills training.
The DRA is not limited to a simple assessment of the situation. It also serves as the basis for a strategic roadmap, aligned with Madagascar’s sustainable development priorities. Through this assessment, the country hopes to define a coherent digital vision that will not only accelerate its transformation but also help reduce inequalities in access to opportunities offered by the digital sector.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Digital applications help authorities vet travelers in advance, improving security while reducing administrative burdens. By allowing travelers to apply for visas online before arrival, Namibia reduces congestion at borders, improving the overall travel experience.
Namibia has introduced an online application system for visas on arrival, marking a major step toward modernizing its visa process. Minister of Home Affairs, Albert Kawana, officially launched the initiative on March 3, 2025, at the ministerial conference hall.
Minister Kawana emphasized that while this new system enhances travel convenience, the visa application process for countries that do not qualify for visas on arrival remains unchanged. These travelers must continue to apply in advance via the Ministry’s online platform and await approval before entering Namibia.
The system allows eligible travelers to apply for visas before arrival, ensuring a smoother and more efficient entry process. The minister also reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to fostering diplomatic and economic ties by engaging with nations interested in reciprocal visa agreements.
Starting April 1st, the new policy will apply to countries such as Benin, Burundi, Chad, the Central African Republic, Ghana, Guinea, Niger, Rwanda, and Togo. Citizens of African nations will pay approximately $70 for a tourist or holiday visa application.
Namibia has been actively digitalizing its immigration processes to enhance efficiency and accessibility. Key initiatives include the launch of an online application system for Short-Term Employment Permits (Work Visas) and Namibian Ordinary Passports in 2023, allowing applicants to apply, schedule appointments, and monitor application statuses online, reducing the need for in-person visits. Also, in 2022, Namibia introduced the Digital Nomad Visa to attract remote workers. The Visa permits eligible individuals to reside in the country for up to six months while working remotely for foreign-based employers.
These initiatives mark significant progress in Namibia’s digital transformation, enhancing security, modernizing services, and facilitating seamless travel.
Hikmatu Bilali
Niger, like many African nations, is pursuing digital technology as a key driver of development. The government's roadmap prioritizes modernizing administration, strengthening infrastructure, and expanding access to digital services.
Niger will adopt a national policy for the development of its digital sector next month, the government said last Wednesday. Speaking on Radio Télévision du Niger (RTN), Minister of Communication, Posts, and Digital Economy Sidi Mohamed Raliou said the policy aims to structure and accelerate the country’s digital transformation, making digital technology a driver of growth and modernization.
The national policy will encompass all sectors and government administrations, he explained. The objective is to digitize public services, gradually eliminating paper documents and optimizing service management. The policy will be supported by connectivity infrastructure, including fiber optic deployment to interconnect different regions.
The initiative is part of a broader set of strategic projects designed to strengthen Niger’s digital sector. These projects include the launch of three satellites for communications, remote sensing, and airspace surveillance, as well as the construction of a national data center to secure and centralize digital data.
Additionally, the government plans to establish a National Cybersecurity Agency to oversee IT system protection, combat cyber threats, and raise public awareness about cybersecurity best practices. Efforts are underway to improve nationwide internet access, particularly in rural areas.
The policy aligns with Niger’s ambition to modernize digital services and attract investment in the telecommunications sector. In 2024, the country scored 0.1578 out of 1 on the Telecom Infrastructure Index (TII), significantly below the African average of 0.4534, according to the United Nations. In terms of e-governance, Niger ranked 187th out of 193 countries with an index score of 0.2116. These figures highlight the significant efforts needed to enhance the country’s digital transformation.
Once adopted, the national digital policy is expected to transform Niger’s digital ecosystem by strengthening infrastructure, expanding access to online services, and improving cybersecurity. The development of broadband and the expansion of internet coverage will foster greater digital inclusion, enabling citizens and businesses to benefit from modern tools.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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The Moroccan government has prioritized digital technology as a cornerstone of the country's socioeconomic development. In addition to investing in infrastructure, the administration is committed to equipping the population with the necessary digital skills to achieve these goals.
Morocco will open a new school specializing in programming and coding in the Fès-Meknès region, the government said Friday. An agreement to establish the "YouCode Fès" school was signed under the leadership of Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister Delegate in charge of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform.
"Under this agreement, the ‘YouCode Fès’ school will offer a two-year training program in information technology and digital fields. Each cohort will welcome 80 students, contributing to the expansion of employment opportunities in the digital sector within the region and improving young people’s employability in tech-related professions," the ministry said in a Facebook announcement.
The initiative aligns with Morocco’s Digital Maroc 2030 strategy, which aims to develop a high-quality talent pool in the digital sector. The government's long-term goal is to enhance its outsourcing and digital export hub. By 2030, the country aims to increase employment in the sector to 270,000 jobs, up from 130,000 in 2022. Rabat is also targeting digital export revenues of 40 billion Algerian dinars ($296.13 million) by 2030, compared to 15.8 billion dinars in 2022.
According to the World Bank, nearly 230 million jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa will require digital skills by 2030. While Morocco is not part of this region, the trend highlights the critical role of digital training in Africa’s technological transformation.
The timeline for the new school’s launch has not been announced. Similar programs may be expanded to other regions. YouCode already operates campuses in Safi and Youssoufia (Marrakech-Safi region) and in Nador (Oriental region).
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
With the acceleration of digital transformation in Africa, cooperation between countries is becoming crucial. It facilitates access to technology, optimizes resources, and fosters innovation.
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the National Bank of Rwanda (NBR) signed a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday, February 25, during the Inclusive Fintech Forum recently held in Rwanda. The agreement establishes a "license passporting" framework, allowing fintech companies that comply with regulations to operate freely in both countries, facilitating their expansion while reducing regulatory barriers.
"The signing of this memorandum of understanding reaffirms our commitment to the broader idea of an integrated African market. It holds the prospect of enhancing the livelihoods of our citizens and creates opportunities for an environment that encourages fintech innovation and investment, ultimately benefiting our economies, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)," said Johnson Asiama, former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana.
This partnership aligns with a broader strategy to strengthen Africa’s fintech ecosystem and promote regional economic integration. Rwanda, which aims to attract 300 fintech firms by 2029, create 7,500 direct jobs, and secure $200 million in investments, recently launched a National Fintech Strategy and a national digital payment system. Ghana, a key player in financial technology, continues to enhance its payment infrastructure and support innovative initiatives.
By facilitating the integration of digital financial services, this agreement plays a vital role in advancing the vision of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and accelerating the continent’s digital transformation. As Africa’s fintech sector experiences rapid growth, the continent has the potential to emerge as a global fintech hub—provided it can overcome challenges related to digitization and financial inclusion.
In 2024, African fintech startups raised $1.034 billion, accounting for 47% of all funding secured by startups across the continent, up from 42% in 2023, according to Africa: The Big Deal.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
As digital connectivity expands across Africa and globally, ICT skills are in high demand. Recognizing this trend, Morocco is implementing strategic programs to prepare its youth for careers in the digital sector.
Samsung Electronics Maghreb Arab, the Moroccan subsidiary of South Korean tech giant Samsung, and Morocco’s Ministry of National Education, Preschool, and Sports signed an amendment to their partnership agreement on Wednesday, February 26, to enhance digital education in Morocco. The initiative aims to support educational development and equip younger generations with the skills to tackle future technological challenges.
"Samsung is committed to supporting education and innovation in Morocco, and we are delighted to strengthen our partnership with the Ministry of National Education. By integrating artificial intelligence into the Samsung Innovation Campus and launching the NationBy integrating artificial intelligence into the Samsung Innovation Campus and launching the National Hackathon, we want to offer young Moroccans opportunities to explore and develop their skills in future technological fields," said Hee Young Hong, President of Samsung Electronics Maghreb Arab.
This initiative builds on a collaboration established last year to strengthen digital education in Morocco through the Samsung Innovation Campus program. The program offers ICT training to young people seeking employment in the rapidly evolving tech sector. To date, it has trained 780 teachers, and 1,273 participants have taken part in nationwide Python programming courses.
For the Moroccan government, this initiative aligns with the Morocco Digital Strategy 2030, launched last September. The strategy aims to train 100,000 young people per year in digital careers, with a goal of creating 240,000 jobs in the digital sector by 2030 to meet the growing demand for tech skills.
According to a new report by the Brookings Institution, titled "Foresight Africa 2025-2030," an estimated 230 million jobs in sub-Saharan Africa will require digital skills by 2030. The report also anticipates up to 650 million digital training opportunities, representing a potential market of $130 billion. This trend underscores the importance of initiatives like Samsung’s, which aim to equip young Moroccans with the skills to become future leaders and innovators.
This renewed collaboration between Samsung and the Ministry of Education presents a promising opportunity for digital education in Morocco. By enhancing teachers' capabilities and providing students with essential tools to excel, this initiative could contribute to both local community development and the global digital economy.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Cameroonian authorities have centralized all online gaming payment solutions under a single operator. While justified by security concerns related to gambling, this move is negatively impacting the burgeoning African video game industry. In this interview, Olivier Madiba, founder and CEO of Kiro’o Games—Central Africa's first professional video game studio, recognized internationally for promoting African values through entertainment—discussed the detrimental effects of this government decision on his studio's operations.
We Are Tech: In a recent X post, you mentioned that the Cameroonian government's decision to grant exclusive online gaming payment rights to InTouch has disrupted your services. Could you explain how this decision has specifically affected your business as an online gaming provider focused on entertainment, not gambling?
Olivier Madiba : I believe the Ministry of Territorial Administration's directive was primarily intended for gambling and online lottery services. However, because the legal term "online games" was used, those of us in the video game industry, which falls under culture and entertainment, have been unfairly impacted.
It’s important to understand that we provide a cultural entertainment service. We offer video game enthusiasts a competitive alternative, allowing them to enjoy gaming experiences rooted in African cultural references. This is our way of contributing to a market largely dominated by Western or Asian models, particularly Japanese ones. In contrast, gambling and lottery games are financial bets that can generate monetary winnings and, indeed, may be used for money laundering.
To comply with the directive, we are now obliged to switch payment providers in just three weeks, after years of establishing stable payments with our existing provider. While many payment aggregators exist, very few are reliable. We had to painstakingly vet them, case by case, at significant research and development (R&D) cost.
Just as we were overcoming that challenge, being forced to use a single operator now poses a major threat to our digital economy. This monopoly gives the selected operator the power to dictate terms in the most critical area: cash flow.
To illustrate the impact, for over ten days, we've received no payments from our customers—not just for video games, but for all our cross-media activities, including coloring books, comic books, Rebuntu, and more. These are consequences the government should have anticipated. The onboarding process with InTouch is, understandably, lengthy, despite their team's goodwill.
For a startup like ours, if we were 100% dependent on the Cameroonian market, this decision could push us straight into bankruptcy. And yet, as I often say, I created this job from scratch—both for myself and for my team."
WAT: Given that the president has himself encouraged digital innovation, why is it vital to avoid exclusivity and prioritize a competitive environment within this fintech segment?
Olivier Madiba : Given that online payments in Francophone Africa are made at least 80% via Mobile Money—If I’m not mistaken—avoiding a monopoly in this sector is crucial for two key reasons.
First, many fintech companies that aggregate Mobile Money services count online gambling operators—lotteries, sports betting, and other online gaming platforms—as major clients. Removing this customer base would severely cut their revenue, threatening their survival and the jobs they support.
Second, competition among these fintech companies is key to ensuring quality service. Clients like Kiro’o Games have switched aggregators at least two or three times or use multiple providers simultaneously to maintain service stability. A monopoly would eliminate this crucial safeguard, eroding customer trust and damaging the entire digital ecosystem that's been built over years.
WAT : Do you understand the government's security argument for this decision? It seems that authorities have not fully grasp the consequences this could have on the digital product value chain. Given your experience and based on conversations with industry experts, are there viable alternatives to a single-operator monopoly?
Olivier Madiba : We understand and support the government's core decision to regulate and track financial flows related to online gambling. However, we believe this should have been done through discussions with key stakeholders who understand the ecosystem, ensuring harmony within the value chain and anticipating potential consequences.
It's important to recognize the fundamental difference between video game operators like us and gambling or lottery operators. Our players pay for an entertainment service they actively control. In contrast, gambling players pay for the uncertain hope of financial gain, over which they have virtually no control. This crucial distinction is why gambling requires a license, while our industry does not.
For instance, the government could establish clear conditions that payment aggregators must meet to process payments for online gambling, or even online gaming in general. These conditions could include mandatory participation in rigorous government audits or the implementation of monitoring and control protocols, similar to those in place for banks. Additionally, the government should clearly define "online gambling" to avoid conflating simple entertainment games with gambling, preventing unnecessary regulatory burdens on unrelated digital activities.
We also believe this decision should have been made in consultation with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications. These ministries have been instrumental in integrating finance and technology in Cameroon and could have provided valuable expertise. Their input would likely have helped anticipate potential implications and define appropriate measures to mitigate any negative impacts."
WAT : How is this decision being received in the fintech sector? Does it create regulatory uncertainty that could deter investors? Given that Central Africa, especially Cameroon, already attracts less venture capital than markets like Kenya or Nigeria, do you think this could further hinder investment in the region's fintech sector?
Olivier Madiba : We have closely followed the public policy developments on this issue, and indeed, the successive decisions made by the authorities have introduced a level of uncertainty. Fintech is highly sensitive to changes in the economic environment.
We are competing on a global scale, and to succeed, we need to operate as a united and well-structured ecosystem. In many countries where online payment services are thriving, regulation plays a crucial role. Just as a physical economy requires efficient financial infrastructure, a digital economy needs highly sophisticated payment channels. For investors, this demand represents a real opportunity, as every transaction generates fees.
Take, for example, the competition in money transfer solutions—it has clearly benefited customers. Costs have decreased, and transaction volumes have risen. Similarly, companies like ours have been able to grow in ways that would have seemed impossible a decade ago. Back then, few would have bet on the viability of such a business model.
From this perspective, introducing uncertainty or excessive market concentration in our digital economy would be a costly mistake in an increasingly digital world. While this monopoly decision may indeed enhance security, I sincerely believe we can achieve that important goal while maintaining a sufficient level of competition to protect consumers from the risks associated with a near-monopoly.
WAT : Can you provide a clear explanation of how the payment system functions in these transactions, outlining the roles of the key players? How has government intervention altered these dynamics, and what are the resulting opportunities and risks?
Olivier Madiba : Here's how a typical digital payment with Mobile Money works:
The customer initiates a payment in a video game (or application) where they want to purchase digital content–not for gambling.
The system prompts them for their phone number and email to generate a receipt.
Once the customer provides this information, Kiro'o's server connects with the payment aggregator's server.
The aggregator's server then communicates with the Mobile Money provider's server, either Orange or MTN.
The player completes the payment through Orange or MTN.
The payment confirmation is sent back to the aggregator, who then forwards it to us.
Finally, the player receives payment confirmation and the digital content within the game.
It took us years to refine this process. Finding a reliable aggregator to handle steps three through six flawlessly is incredibly difficult.
Many aggregators are simply unreliable. By imposing a monopoly on a single aggregator, you eliminate competition, which removes the incentive to improve their technology. This could result in payment failures in as many as half of all transactions. Imagine customers making payments that you can't validate, even though their money has been debited.
That's the risk inherent in this monopoly decision—it could severely damage hard-earned consumer trust, disrupt the payment value chain, and impede the president's goal of digitizing our economy.
Interview by Idriss Linge