Tech (833)
- Mauritius plans mandatory registration for online vendors to improve e-commerce regulation
- Proposed registry will require sellers to obtain licenses and meet compliance standards
- Initiative aims to curb digital scams and improve consumer protection through seller traceability
Online vendors in Mauritius will soon face mandatory registration under initial proposals discussed between Commerce Minister Michaël Sik Yuen and consumer groups. The measure aims to tighten e-commerce regulations and combat the increasing number of digital scams by ensuring seller traceability and enhanced consumer protection.
The project envisions creating an official registry of online sellers operating in Mauritius. Each online merchant will be required to obtain a license to operate legally and comply with a defined set of standards. These requirements are intended to provide clearer oversight of the sector and help differentiate legitimate sellers from illegal operators.
Highlighting the need for such regulation, Jayen Chellum, Secretary-General of the Consumers’ Association of Mauritius (ACIM), said: "It only takes someone posting a product [on social media, Editor’s note], requesting payment through a bank account or mobile app, and the customer never receives the order. We’ve seen cases both locally and internationally."
Local media outlets quoted the minister as saying that the first draft of the registry is expected in the coming weeks. Authorities plan to implement an inclusive, flexible, and gradual process to ensure the system's success and prevent segments of the digital economy from reverting to informality.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
The Abuja Start-up Hub could help spread innovation across regions, bridging the digital divide and boosting Nigeria’s participation in the tech economy
On April 10, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) announced it had signed an agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to establish the Abuja Start-up Hub, backed by a JPY 1.6 billion (USD 12.1 million) grant.
Speaking at the event, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive innovation and economic diversification.
The signing ceremony, held at the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in Abuja, marks a new chapter in Japan–Nigeria bilateral cooperation, with a focus on fostering digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment.
Spanning five years and eight months, from April 2025 to December 2030, the Abuja Start-up Hub will be jointly implemented by NITDA and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA). The hub is envisioned as a launchpad for a new generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs capable of building scalable ventures and potentially becoming Africa’s next tech unicorns.
The partnership taps into Nigeria’s large and rapidly growing talent pool, which holds immense potential to drive technological progress and digital transformation. According to a 2022 report by NITDA and Co-Creation Hub (CcHub) titled "IT Talent Gap Assessment in Nigeria," roughly one-third of the country’s population aged 15 to 35 comprises a tech-savvy, innovation-driven demographic eager to embrace emerging technologies. This initiative creates a critical pathway to harness and nurture that potential through structured support, skills development, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Hikmatu Bilali
• DR Congo's SNEL signs MoU with Huawei to digitize national power services
• Agreement covers fiber optic expansion, smart meter deployment, and digital infrastructure upgrades
• Focus areas include smart substations, digital sales points, data centers, and monitoring systems
The Democratic Republic of Congo's national electricity company, SNEL, has signed, on Thursday, a memorandum of understanding with Chinese technology firm Huawei to digitally transform the country's power services.
The partnership, as reported by the Congolese News Agency, focuses on four key areas: expanding fiber optic network capacity and coverage to improve nationwide connectivity; modernizing electricity distribution infrastructure with smart meters, digital sales points, and communication systems for field teams; developing high-performance data centers and implementing monitoring systems for transmission lines and transformer substations; and deploying smart substations and innovative distribution cabinets with value-added digital services.
The agreement aligns with President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi's vision to modernize the country's strategic infrastructure and supports the National Digital Plan Horizon 2025, which aims to strengthen the Congolese public sector's technical and digital capabilities. As the plan's deadline approaches, authorities are accelerating efforts to digitize state-owned enterprises, improve service quality, and enhance transparency.
This partnership underscores the growing interest of technology companies, particularly Chinese firms, in the Congolese market, where Huawei is steadily expanding its presence through significant infrastructure projects.
By focusing on fiber optic network expansion, smart meter deployment, and the development of digital infrastructure such as data centers, the initiative aims to enable smarter and more efficient electricity management. It could also facilitate real-time decision-making, improve service transparency, and lay the groundwork for a more connected energy ecosystem.
Samira Njoya
- The Program was developed with financial services provider Sofac
- It offers installment payments starting at 110 MAD (~$12) over up to 36 months
- Customers apply in-store via app with approvals processed within 30 minutes
Samsung Electronics' Moroccan subsidiary has launched a consumer credit solution, "Samsung Finance+," aimed at boosting sales by making its products, particularly smartphones, more accessible to local consumers.
Developed in partnership with Sofac, a specialized financial services provider, the program allows customers to purchase Samsung products through installment payments. Monthly payments start at 110 Moroccan dirhams (approximately $12), with financing periods extending up to 36 months.
Customers can apply for financing directly in-store via a dedicated application, with Sofac advisors processing applications within 30 minutes. Upon approval, customers can take their chosen Samsung smartphone home immediately.
"We are delighted to launch Samsung Finance+ in Morocco in collaboration with SOFAC," said Hyun Joong Kim, President of Samsung Electronics Maghreb Arab (Semag), in a statement. "This service will enable a greater number of Moroccan consumers to access our innovative products. It marks a significant step towards making Samsung technology more accessible."
The initiative aligns with Samsung's broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the Moroccan market while adapting to local consumers' purchasing power. By partnering with Sofac, Samsung leverages local expertise in consumer credit.
The African smartphone market is facing headwinds. Research firm Canalys reported that Samsung's smartphone shipments to the continent fell 17% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year, totaling 3.5 million units. With a 17% market share during that period, trailing Chinese firm Transsion's 49%, Samsung is seeking to maintain its competitiveness amid softening demand.
Samsung may replicate the consumer credit model in other African markets to bolster growth, using Morocco as a pilot program in a region where upfront payments often present a significant barrier to purchase.
However, access to credit remains contingent on Sofac's assessment of a customer's financial profile, potentially excluding consumers in the informal sector or those without established banking histories. This screening process could impede the broader inclusion goals of such financing solutions.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Côte d'Ivoire’s La Poste and China’s Caftrade launch GO'POST green mobility and logistics project Initiative includes electric ride-hailing, eco-friendly express delivery, and mobile payments Pilot phase to deploy 100 electric cars and 200 electric motorcycles.
Côte d'Ivoire’s national postal services operator, La Poste, and Chinese digital logistics firm Caftrade, signed a partnership on Tuesday, April 8, to launch GO'POST, an integrated green mobility and logistics solution. Presented at a ceremony led by Digital Transition and Digitalization Minister Kalil Ibrahim Konaté, the initiative combines electric ride-hailing, eco-friendly express delivery, and digital services to modernize urban transport while addressing environmental concerns.
"The launch of GO'POST illustrates the government’s commitment to making digital technology a driver for modernizing the administration, fostering economic and social inclusion, and serving as a growth engine for young entrepreneurs. We are implementing the President of the Republic’s directives regarding the modernization of La Poste, in order to offer services that contribute to digital inclusion, as evidenced by this initiative," stated Konaté.
The project centers on three key components: electric ride-hailing passenger transport, eco-friendly express delivery for individuals and businesses, and an interoperable mobile payment solution. The pilot phase will deploy 100 electric cars and 200 electric motorcycles, preceding a nationwide rollout.
This initiative coincides with the continent's growing energy and digital transition. Africa's electric vehicle market is rapidly expanding. A Mordor Intelligence study values it at $15.8 billion in 2024, projecting it to reach $25.4 billion by 2029, with a 10.2% average annual growth rate. This momentum reflects increasing awareness of environmental issues and a commitment to sustainable and smart solutions, particularly in urban transport and connected services.
The launch of GO'POST is expected to significantly impact Côte d’Ivoire’s economic and social landscape. Beyond reducing pollutant emissions, the project aims to create new "green" jobs, support digital entrepreneurship, and enhance financial inclusion through accessible mobile payment solutions. By integrating technology with mobility, the initiative paves the way for a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive ecosystem.
Samira Njoya
- Senegal launches National Geoportal to expand access to geospatial data
- Platform supports territorial governance, transparency, and public data accessibility
- Offers geospatial data for sectors including agriculture, environment, infrastructure, and public services
The Senegalese government officially launched the National Geoportal on Tuesday, April 8, in Dakar, aiming to democratize access to geospatial data for improved territorial governance, transparency, innovation, and inclusive public data management.
"Digital transformation is no longer a choice—it is a necessity. Geospatial data must now be accessible in real time, not only to expert communities but also to citizens and entrepreneurs in their daily activities. By fully integrating geospatial data into the digital dynamic, the State is building a more agile, more efficient administration, firmly focused on citizens," said Isidore Diouf, Director General of Sénégal Numérique SA.
The platform was developed under the National Geomatics Plan (PNG) and the SEN Spatial project, with support from technical partners, including the French Embassy. It provides geospatial data across key sectors such as agriculture and food security, the blue economy, basic social services, environment and biodiversity, and infrastructure and spatial planning. The portal also offers information on geomatics activities and training.
This initiative aligns with the Technological New Deal, Senegal's digital strategy, which prioritizes modernizing the public information system. Sénégal Numérique SA, the lead entity in implementing the national digital policy, has deployed its technical infrastructure to ensure the resilience, availability, and security of data on the GeoSenegal platform.
Senegal intends to establish integrated digital governance through this initiative, with territorial data playing a crucial role alongside strategic frameworks like digital identity. This move follows the recent launch of Senegal’s first satellite, GAINDESAT-1A, designed for Earth observation and enhancing territorial management capabilities. The overarching goal is to strengthen inter-institutional coordination and accelerate the digitization of public services.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Senegal, with backing from the United Arab Emirates, plans to digitize its daaras, the traditional Quranic schools that educate thousands of children nationwide. A meeting held in Dakar on Monday, April 7, between Senegal’s Minister of National Education, Moustapha Mamba Guirassy, and a delegation from Abu Dhabi-based digital education firm Alef Education, advanced this initiative.
"Fruitful discussions laid the groundwork for a strong partnership, with a pilot phase set to begin in October 2025. The objective is clear: to build a digital education model rooted in our cultural and spiritual values, and capable of equipping daaras with 21st-century teaching tools," the Ministry of National Education said in a press release.
This initiative follows President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s visit to Alef Education’s headquarters in the United Arab Emirates, where he established the foundation for the collaboration. It falls under the government’s "Senegal Daara Digital Transformation" project, which in its initial phase aims to deploy an artificial intelligence-powered personalized learning platform targeting over 10,000 students. The curriculum will include Arabic, mathematics, and Islamic studies.
Daaras are an important component of Senegal’s education system. According to a 2018 survey by the NGO Global Solidarity Initiative (GSI), there are more than 2,000 such schools across the country. This partnership is expected to create new educational opportunities. Alef Education, known for its expertise in educational technologies, is poised to play a central role in this transformation, providing students with modern digital tools while respecting the cultural and spiritual distinctiveness of the daaras.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
- Platform offers details on academic programs, admission, application tracking, and student life
- Includes resources for embassies, cooperation bodies, and enrolled foreign students
Algeria's Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Kamel Baddari, officially launched the "Study in Algeria" digital platform on Tuesday, April 8, in Algiers. Designed for international students looking to pursue their studies in Algeria, the platform is part of a broader effort to modernize the university system and boost its international appeal.
"Today, we are entering a new phase in the modernization of higher education and its opening to the world," said Baddari. "Algeria is increasingly seen as an attractive destination for international students, thanks to the global outreach we’ve initiated and the reforms undertaken to modernize our education system and improve its quality."
The platform offers a comprehensive overview of academic programs across Algeria, details on admission requirements, an online application portal, and real-time tracking of applications. It also includes practical guidance on administrative procedures, living conditions, and profiles of universities and research centers. Dedicated sections are available for embassies, cooperation services, and international students already enrolled in Algerian institutions.
This initiative follows the presidential decree issued in February, which lays out the framework for admitting foreign students to Algerian institutions, and forms part of the Higher Education Ministry’s five-year action plan (2024–2029). That roadmap prioritizes digital transformation and the expansion of academic cooperation at both regional and international levels.
The launch of "Study in Algeria" is a significant milestone in Algeria’s push to digitize higher education. The platform aims to enhance the country’s academic appeal, facilitate institutional exchanges, and position Algeria as a reputable study destination. By centralizing and streamlining access to university services, the initiative is expected to boost the global visibility of Algerian universities.
Samira Njoya
- Mauritania launches digitized road traffic management system via “Khadamaty” app
- System enables online tracking of violations, fine payments, and complaint submissions
- Initiative aims to reduce bureaucracy, prevent injustices, and streamline citizen access to services
Mauritania launched a digitized road traffic management system on Monday, integrating it into the government's "Khadamaty" application. The system, overseen by the Interior Minister and his counterparts from the Ministries of Digital Transformation and Transport, aims to streamline traffic violation tracking, fine payments, and complaint submissions.
According to the Minister of Digital Transformation and Administrative Modernization, the system aims to reduce administrative burdens, eliminate unfair practices, and enhance citizen convenience. Users will be able to easily view vehicle offenses and pay fines online, eliminating lengthy delays and vehicle immobilization.
Developed through a collaboration between the General Directorate of National Security and the Ministry of Digital Transformation, the system aligns with President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani's "My Ambition for the Nation" initiative. This initiative prioritizes a modern, transparent, and citizen-centric administration driven by digital technologies. The recent launch of online criminal record payments exemplifies this approach.
This reform comes at a time when global indicators show that Mauritania lags significantly behind in e-government development. In 2024, the country ranked 165th in the United Nations E-Government Development Index with a score of 0.3491, significantly below the African average (0.4247) and global average (0.6382). Mauritania's online services score was notably low at 0.1688, lagging behind both African (0.3862) and global (0.5754) averages.
Beyond administrative efficiency, the system is expected to improve road safety by enhancing driver accountability and streamlining traffic management. An advanced digital platform, coupled with surveillance cameras, will bolster traffic control and promote greater road discipline.
By Samira Njoya
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
- Cameroon has set up an interministerial working group on e-government to coordinate digital transition
- Group includes around 30 administrations and experts, led by the Ministry of Culture
- Tasks include conducting surveys, setting digital archiving standards, and ensuring system interoperability
Cameroon is advancing its multi-year program to digitize public archives, aiming to modernize document management and enhance information accessibility. To expedite this effort, an interministerial working group on e-government has been established to coordinate digitization across the public administration. The announcement came during a meeting held April 2 in Yaounde.
According to Minette Libom Li Likeng, Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, the initiative reflects "the government’s strong commitment to achieving a secure, structured, and strategic digital transition of public administration." She underscored the significance of digital archiving as a tool to bolster national data sovereignty and improve public service efficiency.
The newly formed interministerial working group on e-government comprises approximately 30 administrations and experts tasked with overseeing the national archives' digitization. Coordinated by the Ministry of Culture, the group will conduct field surveys, establish digital archiving guidelines, and structure an accessible and secure database. The group is also responsible for ensuring system interoperability and guaranteeing archive management adheres to international electronic governance standards.
This initiative is part of a broader reform effort to transform public administration, making it more responsive, transparent, and better equipped to serve citizens' needs. It aligns with efforts to optimize information management and enhance data security, critical components of good governance and national development.
The digital archiving of state records is projected to yield numerous benefits, including increased transparency within Cameroon's public administrations, reduced data loss risks, and streamlined citizen access to public information. Furthermore, effective archive management is expected to enhance the traceability of administrative decisions, reinforcing state accountability while lowering costs associated with physical archives.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping sports worldwide, and in Africa, it offers significant potential to modernize the sector, improve performance, and drive economic growth, especially ahead of major continental sporting events.
Africa is poised to host a series of major sporting events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal, and the 2030 World Cup, co-hosted by Morocco. These events present significant opportunities for economic and technological advancement, beyond their sporting significance.
A March 2025 report by multinational management and technology consultancy BearingPoint, titled "Intelligence artificielle et sport en Afrique," highlights the growing role of AI in organizing and enhancing sports events across the continent. The report identifies AI as a tool for large-scale optimization, modernization, and value creation.
AI for Optimized Organization
BearingPoint's report indicates that AI can revolutionize sports event management in Africa by optimizing key areas. This includes logistical planning, crowd control, security, ticketing, and visitor flow forecasting. For athletes, AI enhances performance through game data analysis, injury prevention, personalized training programs, and fitness monitoring. Spectators benefit from personalized offerings, optimized content delivery, and improved accessibility solutions.
The integration of these technologies throughout event organization could stimulate local economies, optimize resource management, and enhance Africa’s international appeal.
Measurable Economic Impact
The economic impact of major sporting events is substantial. The 2010 World Cup in South Africa generated approximately 130,000 jobs and $385 million in revenue, while the 2019 AFCON in Egypt yielded $83 million. AI can maximize these returns by refining demand forecasts and optimizing service efficiency.
This trend aligns with global momentum. A Mordor Intelligence study projects the AI market in the sports industry to grow from $5.93 billion in 2024 to $20.94 billion by 2029, with an average annual growth rate of 28.69%. This growth reflects increasing interest in AI within the sports sector.
A dynamic SportsTech ecosystem is emerging in Africa, blending sports and innovation. In 2023, investments in this sector reached $5.3 million. AI is being utilized for talent identification, performance enhancement, injury prevention, and infrastructure management. This movement, driven by startups, incubators, and sports institutions, has the potential to drive sustainable growth.
Addressing Key Challenges
However, significant challenges remain. These include a lack of robust digital infrastructure, insufficient investment, a shortage of specialized skills, and the absence of a clear regulatory framework for personal data management. Stronger public-private sector collaboration is essential to overcome these obstacles. This includes implementing appropriate infrastructure, developing local skills, and establishing suitable regulatory policies.
By integrating AI throughout event preparation and organization, African sports events can become catalysts for digital transformation. AI is positioning itself as a strategic lever for modernization and enhancing the continent's attractiveness.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
- Smart Africa alliance announces creation of African Artificial Intelligence Council
- Council to coordinate AI development across 40 African nations
- Focus areas include computing infrastructure, data governance, skills development, and industrial applications
Smart Africa, an alliance of 40 African nations driving the continent's digital agenda, announced the formation of the African Artificial Intelligence Council on April 3. The decision, made during the organization's 20th steering committee session in Kigali, seeks to structure AI development through governance frameworks and increased investment.
"In a historic decision, the steering committee approved the creation of the African Artificial Intelligence Council, a dedicated body to lead continental coordination on key AI pillars, including computing infrastructure, data management, skills development, industrial applications, and governance," the meeting's final communiqué stated.
The council will support African states by defining common AI frameworks, fostering public-private partnerships, and ensuring ethical and inclusive adoption. It will also accelerate digital infrastructure deployment and local talent training to maximize AI's economic and social benefits. AI has the potential to transform sectors such as agriculture, health, and education, where machine learning and data processing solutions are emerging.
This initiative aligns with African countries' efforts to leverage AI for growth. The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) estimates AI could add $2.9 trillion to the continent's GDP by 2030, representing a 3% annual increase. However, AI development in Africa is hindered by coordination gaps, inadequate infrastructure, and nascent regulations.
The African AI Council aims to address these challenges by establishing a shared framework to attract investment and promote locally tailored solutions. It will also assist countries in tackling issues such as insufficient computing infrastructure, specialized skills shortages, and ethical considerations surrounding AI use.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Face aux défis de la modernisation, de nombreux pays misent sur la transformation numérique pour améliorer l’accès aux services publics. La numérisation des documents officiels, notamment les diplômes, devient une priorité pour renforcer l’efficacité administrative.
Mauritania's government is developing a digital diploma system to modernize issuance and enhance authenticity.
The project's framework was discussed at an April 2 meeting at the Ministry of National Education and Education System Reform, chaired by Minister Houda Mint Babah, and attended by Digital Transformation Minister Ahmed Salem Bede. The system aims to directly link diplomas to the civil registry, ensuring traceability and simplifying citizen access.
Graduates will be able to retrieve certified diplomas via the "Houwiyeti" (My Identity) app, a digital platform for public services already used for birth certificates and passports. The app will streamline access to diplomas, particularly baccalaureate and preparatory education certificates, reducing administrative burdens.
This initiative is part of a broader government digital transformation program. Last year, Mauritania announced a $30 million investment to modernize digital infrastructure and develop public service solutions. However, Mauritania lags in digital administration. In 2024, it ranked 165th globally on the United Nations e-Government Development Index, with a score of 0.3491 out of 1, below the African average of 0.4247 and the global average of 0.6382.
By integrating diplomas into its digital registry, the government aims to simplify access to official documents, combat forgery, and enhance certification reliability. This digital shift is crucial for improving transparency, increasing administrative efficiency, and facilitating graduate integration into the national and international labor markets.
- TikTok removed 8 million videos in Sub-Saharan Africa in Q4 2024
- In North Africa, 7 million videos were taken down in the second half of 2024
TikTok removed eight million videos in Sub-Saharan Africa during the fourth quarter of 2024 for violating community guidelines, up from 7.5 million in the previous quarter, the company announced. In North Africa, seven million videos were taken down in the second half of 2024.
The increased removals reflect heightened moderation efforts across the continent, where several countries have criticized the platform for inadequate content control.
The figures were disclosed at the second annual African Summit for a Safer Internet, held last week in Cape Town, South Africa, which convened government officials, regulators, and industry stakeholders from South Africa, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, and Kenya. Discussions centered on online safety, content moderation, and the development of Africa-specific digital policies.
"Billions of people come to TikTok every day to create, share and connect and we're continually evolving our policies and practices to safeguard our platform so our community can discover and do what they love," said Helena Lersch, TikTok's Vice President of Public Policy.
Several African nations have recently taken action against TikTok. Senegal blocked the platform in August 2023, citing its role in disseminating hateful and subversive messages that threatened national stability. Before service restoration in February 2024, the government demanded assurances on moderating content deemed contrary to national values and public morals.
Somalia suspended TikTok in August 2023, alleging its use for distributing violent content and disinformation. South Sudan suspended the platform for a week in January 2025 following the circulation of graphic videos showing violence against South Sudanese nationals in Sudan. "The rise in violence linked to social media content in South Sudan underscores the need for a balanced approach that addresses the root causes of online incitement while protecting the rights of the population," said Napoleon Adok Gai, Director General of the South Sudanese Communications Authority.
In Kenya, during April 2024 parliamentary debates over a proposal to suspend TikTok for alleged propaganda, fraud, and sexually explicit content, the government opted for a co-regulation model. Similar regulatory discussions have occurred in Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Burkina Faso.
Despite the increased moderation and video removals, concerns persist about the effectiveness of TikTok's measures. A BBC investigation published March 3, 2024, revealed serious abuses, including young users' exposure to explicit sexual content, from which the platform allegedly indirectly profits. A July 2024 report by the Mozilla Foundation and AI Forensics highlighted security flaws in TikTok Lite, used in developing countries, that facilitate the spread of inappropriate content.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji