Tech (883)
African startups are increasingly vital to the continent's technological development, driving innovation, creating jobs, and attracting investment. Their growth requires a supportive environment to maximize their impact and strengthen their contribution to the digital economy.
Senegal's legal framework for startups is entering a new phase. On Wednesday, January 29, the government adopted the implementing decree for Law No. 2020-01 of January 6, 2020, governing startup creation and promotion. This long-awaited decree, years in the making, establishes a clear regulatory framework and introduces incentives for young, innovative companies.
The law aims to stimulate startup creation and growth in Senegal, focusing on creativity, innovation, new technologies, and national and international competitiveness. To qualify, companies must be based in Senegal, with at least one-third of their capital owned by Senegalese citizens, whether residing in the country or abroad. Existing businesses meeting the criteria can also benefit from startup status, which offers advantages such as streamlined administrative processes, preferential customs regimes, training and capacity-building programs, specific tax incentives, and access to financing.
This decree aligns with Senegal’s broader digital transformation strategy. In February, the country will launch the "New Technological Deal," an ambitious program designed to reshape the economy around four key pillars, including innovation and tech entrepreneurship. As part of this initiative, Senegal signed a memorandum of understanding with Google to provide artificial intelligence solutions and digital tools to accelerate the growth of local startups and SMEs.
The law's enactment is a major step forward for Senegal. By fostering a supportive environment for startups, it paves the way for increased entrepreneurial activity, greater competitiveness in global markets, and accelerated digital transformation. This structured legal framework is also expected to attract more investors and boost the tech sector, positioning Senegal as a leading innovation hub in West Africa.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
To address the challenge of securing adequate resources, many African countries are embracing digital solutions. These technologies are streamlining tax collection, increasing transparency, and fostering development by making government agencies more efficient and accessible.
The Central African Republic (CAR) has launched e-Tax, a digital platform designed to simplify and improve the collection of taxes and duties. On Monday, January 27, it organized an information and training workshop, in Bangui, to introduce officials from the Directorate General of Taxes and State Property (DGID) to the platform.
Supported by the European Union, the initiative aims to enhance efficiency, increase transparency, and reduce the costs associated with tax administration. “Modernizing the tax administration through digitalization is a key lever for improving public revenue collection, ensuring transparency, and strengthening the fight against tax fraud,” said Jean Marc Dewerpe, head of cooperation for the European Union in CAR.
The adoption of e-Tax reflects the Central African government's commitment to modernizing public services and strengthening the country’s financial autonomy. So far, 301 large companies and 325 medium-sized enterprises have already been registered on the platform, and many taxpayers are beginning to benefit from its advantages. The system introduces features such as online tax filing and electronic payments.
The successful implementation of e-Tax is expected to significantly improve tax collection, reinforce citizens' tax compliance, and ensure greater transparency in public administration. With this initiative, the country also aims to bridge its gap in the E-Government Development Index (EGDI), where it currently ranks 182nd worldwide with a score of 0.0947 out of 1, according to the United Nations.
Samira Njoya
The Telecommunication Union's 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index highlighted Africa's significant cybersecurity gap compared to other regions. It also suggested that with the right policies and investment incentives, the continent can rapidly improve its cybersecurity posture.
The African cybersecurity market holds significant economic potential for both local companies and international investors, despite facing various challenges. According to Mordor Intelligence, the market, valued at $0.6 billion in 2024, is expected to grow to $1.28 billion by 2029, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 13.5%.
The World Economic Forum's Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025 report reveals that 36% of businesses are skeptical about their country's ability to manage a critical infrastructure cyberattack. Additionally, 27% remain neutral on the issue, while only 9% express confidence, highlighting the continent's vulnerability to escalating threats in an increasingly digital landscape. Ransomware attacks are particularly prevalent, targeting sectors such as finance, email, social media, and critical infrastructure, including energy and transportation, as noted in Interpol's 2023 African Cyberthreat Assessment Report. These attacks disrupt economies and undermine public trust, with African banks experiencing a notable increase in attacks on their digital payment systems.
Several factors contribute to this vulnerability. Many African countries have inadequate cybersecurity budgets and face a significant shortage of skilled professionals. While some nations have implemented data protection legislation, many still lag behind. Furthermore, businesses and citizens often underestimate the severity of cyber threats. According to Orange Cyberdefense's 2023 Security Navigator report, cyberattacks could result in a 10% loss in GDP across Africa, with extortion cases rising by 70% in 2023. This situation presents a real opportunity for developing solutions tailored to the continent's specific challenges. African universities and training centers can expand their curricula to meet the growing demand for qualified professionals, while local startups can innovate by creating products and services that address local needs.
Cybersecurity is essential for Africa's successful digital transformation. Addressing existing weaknesses is crucial for building trust and ensuring resilience in the digital age. African governments can support this transformation by implementing policies that foster innovation and investment in cybersecurity solutions tailored to the unique context of the continent.
Samira Njoya
The Guinean government prioritizes financial inclusion. To this end, several initiatives are underway to expand access to digital financial services.
Guinean fintech company Digital Wallet-Guinée (Diwalgi S.A.) launched a new electronic money solution, "Kulu-Guinée," on Friday, January 24. The launch, attended by Guinean government officials, marks a significant step forward in the country's efforts to digitize its economy.
"Nearly 60% of the adult Guinean population still lacks access to formal financial services. This situation exposes a large portion of our citizens, particularly merchants and informal workers, to significant risks. Kulu represents an innovative solution that not only promotes financial inclusion but also ensures transaction security while helping integrate our citizens into the formal economy," said Rose Pola Pricemou, Minister of Posts, Telecommunications, and the Digital Economy.
The Kulu-Guinée platform offers various services, including secure money transfers using a QR code, a phone number, or a unique Kulu identifier. It also provides payment options for everyday needs, such as shopping, transportation, hairdressing or dining services, and even salary payments.
This private initiative aligns with the government's ongoing efforts to accelerate the country's digital transformation, notably through the Simandou 2040 Strategic Plan, which positions digital technology as a key driver of economic modernization.
The platform is expected to strengthen digital financial inclusion, provide a safer and more convenient payment solution, and facilitate the integration of Guineans—particularly informal workers—into the formal economy.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Healthcare in Tunisia prioritizes efficiency and transparency. To meet the evolving needs of its population and enhance service delivery, the country has fully embraced digital transformation within the healthcare sector.
Tunisian Health Minister Mustapha Ferjani (photo, right) on Wednesday inaugurated a digital platform for managing medicines and health products, a significant step in the country's pharmaceutical sector digital transformation.
Developed by the National Agency for Medicines and Health Products (ANMPS), the platform aims to streamline administrative processes, particularly for issuing marketing authorizations (AMMs) and promotional licenses. It will also improve medicine traceability and provide citizens with online access to administrative services.
“This initiative will enable Tunisia to join the ranks of developed countries that rely on the pharmaceutical industry and the export of medicines,” stated Ferjani. He also highlighted that this innovation will help improve Tunisia’s ranking in global health standards by targeting the GBT3 level established by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The digital platform is designed to simplify and accelerate administrative processes, particularly for issuing marketing authorizations (AMMs) for medicines and promotional licenses. It will also enhance the traceability of medicines while making administrative services accessible online to citizens.
The project, carried out by a team of over 100 Tunisian experts with support from the United States, is part of a broader digitization program aimed at modernizing several strategic sectors in Tunisia. These efforts have already elevated Tunisia to the top spot in North Africa and third place on the continent for e-government, according to the UN’s “E-Government Survey 2024: Accelerating Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development.” With an online service development index of 0.6935 out of 1, Tunisia significantly surpasses the African average of 0.4247.
In addition to modernizing pharmaceutical administration, this initiative aims to enhance transparency, attract investment, and improve interconnectivity between government departments. With this advancement, Tunisia reaffirms its role as a regional leader in digital transformation, strengthens its healthcare sovereignty, and aligns with global best practices.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now a key driver of progress for nations. It provides innovative solutions to economic and social challenges, promoting the modernization of infrastructure, the optimization of public services, and competitiveness on the global stage.
Cameroon is developing a national strategy for artificial intelligence (AI), Minister of Posts and Telecommunications Minette Libom Li Likeng (photo) announced on Tuesday.
The strategy, currently under development, aims to position Cameroon as a key player in the global AI ecosystem, focusing on sectors such as health, agriculture, education, and governance.
"The strategy aims to position Cameroon as a key player in the global AI ecosystem, with a particular focus on strategic sectors such as health, agriculture, education, and governance. It is crucial to establish robust mechanisms to ensure responsible AI, strengthen digital infrastructure, develop local skills, and promote innovation," Li Likeng said at the opening ceremony of national consultations for the 2025 roadmap for the postal, telecommunications, and ICT sectors.
This initiative is part of the digital transformation acceleration project and is expected to contribute to the implementation of the National Development Strategy (SND30) and “Vision 2035.” These projects aim to transform Cameroon into “an emerging, democratic, and united country in its diversity” through structural economic transformation and inclusive development.
Once established, the national AI strategy will allow Cameroon to join other African countries, such as Benin, Nigeria, and Senegal, which have already adopted similar documents. Additionally, countries like Congo and Tunisia are also working on national AI strategies.
Cameroon’s strategy is designed not only to boost innovation and competitiveness through AI but also to address several major challenges. It will tackle ethical issues, ensure cybersecurity, and encourage effective data management. This will help maximize economic benefits and enhance the well-being of the population while mitigating the risks associated with emerging technologies.
Furthermore, the strategy is expected to improve Cameroon’s AI Investment Potential Index. This index, highlighted in the report “AI Investment Potential Index: Mapping Global Opportunities for Sustainable Development” published by the French Development Agency (AFD), measures a country's ability to attract AI investments based on criteria such as technological infrastructure, available skills, regulatory frameworks, and market potential.
Currently, Cameroon scores 30 out of 100 on this index, alongside countries like Angola, Guinea, Ethiopia, and Burkina Faso. This ranking underscores significant development opportunities while highlighting the efforts needed to enhance its attractiveness and fully leverage AI’s potential.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
AI applications can address some of Africa’s most pressing challenges, such as food security, disease prevention, and climate resilience. With African startups increasingly leveraging AI for innovative solutions, such as mobile-based health diagnostics or precision agriculture, the coalition can fuel the growth of the continent’s tech ecosystem.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a UN agency for digital technologies, has launched the AI Skills Coalition to close the global AI skills gap and expand access to AI education. Announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos, held from January 20-24, the initiative brings together over 25 founding organizations, including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft, the East Africa Community, and Cognizant.
ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin commented: “Our new AI Skills Coalition is aiming to train thousands of people this year, especially those living in regions of the world just getting started on their AI journey, as part of our commitment to ensure that all communities can fully participate in our shared digital future."
The coalition will provide an online platform offering free resources on generative AI, machine learning, and sustainable AI applications. The platform, launching in March 2025, will offer self-paced courses, webinars, certifications, and specialized training on AI ethics and governance for developing countries. ITU will collaborate with the UNDP to deliver AI training in 170 countries.
This initiative holds particular significance for Africa, where a substantial digital skills gap limits many countries' ability to fully leverage AI's potential. As AI continues to transform industries, bridging this gap is essential for the continent to remain competitive on a global scale. According to a report by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), an estimated 230 million jobs in sub-Saharan Africa will demand digital skills by 2030, resulting in almost 650 million training opportunities.
This initiative aligns with the UN’s Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact, promoting inclusive AI adoption to drive sustainable development and bridge the global digital divide.
Hikmatu Bilali
Senegal's digital transformation is driven by innovation and entrepreneurship. By supporting digital projects and offering targeted training programs, the country aims to promote inclusion, boost economic growth, and address social challenges.
In Senegal, the General Delegation for Rapid Entrepreneurship for Women and Young People (DER/FJ) plans to enhance its support for innovation and digitization in 2025 by investing 11.3 billion CFA francs ($18.08 million) in various projects. These funds will be allocated to several initiatives, including financing 15,000 micro-enterprises and facilitating the formalization of 10,000 businesses. The initiative was announced on Wednesday, January 15th, during a ceremony to present the results of the call for empowerment projects launched between September 24th and October 11th, 2024.
With an initial budget of 5 billion CFA francs, DER/FJ successfully financed 9,000 projects in 2024, amounting to a total investment of 5.6 billion CFA francs. Notably, many of these initiatives targeted the digital sector through programs like Lionstech (allocating €1 million to accelerate start-ups) and D4D (mobilizing €350,000 to support 100% digital projects). Start-ups such as Paps (logistics), Kalispot (fintech), and Sotilma (agritech) were among the primary beneficiaries of these programs.
These efforts align with the "New Technological Deal," a Senegalese government initiative aimed at establishing the country as a regional leader in innovation. This strategy emphasizes strategic investments in innovative start-ups and SMEs, which are critical drivers of digital transformation and economic growth.
For 2025, DER/FJ plans a series of initiatives to build upon the success of the previous campaign. In addition to startup financing, DER/FJ intends to significantly enhance the capacities of 10,000 beneficiaries through targeted training programs. These programs will equip them with the essential skills and knowledge they need to thrive in today's rapidly evolving entrepreneurial landscape.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Digital technology is revolutionizing education across the globe, unlocking new avenues for learning, inclusivity, and innovation. By seamlessly integrating technology into the educational landscape, stakeholders strive to bridge educational gaps, cultivate creativity, and empower young people to navigate the complexities of today's interconnected world.
Senegal's Ministry of National Education and Télé-École, an educational television channel, signed a partnership agreement on Thursday, January 16th, under the NuMEd Awards initiative. This collaboration aims to integrate technology and media into Senegal's education system, bridging the digital divide and fostering innovative teaching practices nationwide.
"Through the NuMEd Awards, the Ministry and Télé-École strive to create a virtuous cycle of education – one that is increasingly inclusive, engaging, and interconnected," the Ministry of National Education wrote in a press release. "This will equip every young Senegalese with the tools to succeed and navigate the challenges of the modern world."
The partnership will focus on expanding training programs, developing customized digital content, and ensuring equitable access to online tools for all students, including those in remote rural areas. The ultimate goal is to minimize regional disparities and create a strong foundation for shared academic success.
This initiative aligns with the Senegalese government's broader vision to accelerate the digital transformation of the education sector. This includes incorporating emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, into school curricula to prepare Senegal's youth for the digital economy of the future. This partnership also coincides with the unveiling of a national digital education strategy, backed by a five-year budget of $206 million.
Télé-École, a pioneer in educational broadcasting, plans to deepen its commitment by investing in digital platforms and introducing innovative teaching methodologies. This collaboration is expected to reach a wider audience and enhance communication among students, teachers, and parents, paving the way for a more connected and inclusive education system.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Digital transformation is a cornerstone of modernizing public infrastructure and fostering social and economic inclusion. Through ambitious initiatives, many countries are driving digitization, leading to increased transparency and sustainable growth.
Mauritania has reached a major milestone in its digital transformation journey with the official launch of the Digital-Y project on Thursday, January 16, in Nouakchott. Overseen by the Minister of Digital Transformation and Administrative Modernization, Ahmed Salem Ould Bedde (photo, center), the initiative aims to modernize public services, promote digital inclusion, and lay the foundation for transparent and efficient governance.
According to Ahmed Salem Ould Bedde, the project underscores the Mauritanian government's commitment to integrating digital tools into public administration to modernize services, strengthen administrative transparency, and drive economic and social development. He emphasized the importance of making these services accessible to all, particularly to reduce regional disparities and foster true digital inclusion.
The Digital-Y project is funded to the tune of €4 million and is being carried out in partnership with the German cooperation. It aligns with Mauritania's national digital transformation strategy, focusing on developing tailored solutions for public services, establishing unified standards, and enhancing the digital capacities of both institutions and citizens. Additionally, the program seeks to boost the national economy through e-commerce and foster strategic partnerships among the public sector, private sector, and technical and financial partners.
Despite ongoing challenges, this initiative represents a significant step forward for Mauritania as it strives to transform its public services into modern, efficient, and inclusive tools. The project is expected to improve Mauritania's e-Government Development Index (EGDI) ranking from the United Nations. In 2024, the country ranked 165th out of 193 countries with a score of 0.3491 out of 1, compared to 172nd in 2022. These advancements underscore the country's efforts to bridge its digital gap and align with international standards.
By Samira Njoya
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
More...
On the cusp of a major digital transformation, Gabon is leveraging innovative technological solutions to modernize its public services. The goal is to position itself as a regional leader in e-governance, streamline access to administrative procedures, and enhance transparency.
Gabon is set to launch a digital public services platform in the first half of 2025. This initiative was announced, on January 15, in Libreville, during the second meeting of the Steering Committee in charge of the implementation of Gabon’s digital program Gabon Digital. The goal is to modernize the administration and provide all citizens with online access to administrative services.
"We will focus on digital payment systems, the national digital identity system, and implementing a public services platform," explained General Bonjean Rodrigue Mbanza, Minister of Digital Economy and New Information Technologies. "Our objective is to enable anyone, anywhere in the world, to connect with public services in real-time."
This platform is part of the program "Gabon Digital", which was launched last November with initial funding of 44 billion CFA francs (approximately $72.4 million) from the World Bank. This initiative reflects Gabon's ambition to solidify its leadership in e-governance in Africa. Although Gabon dropped from 11th to 15th place in the United Nations' E-Government Survey 2024, it remains a leader in Central Africa for digital initiatives.
The upcoming portal will allow Gabonese citizens to securely perform administrative tasks online, streamlining data processing and reducing the need for in-person visits. Key areas of focus include health (e-health), digital payments, and digital identity. The project aims to modernize public services while enhancing their efficiency and transparency.
By Samira Njoya
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Digital transformation has become a top priority for education systems across the globe. Countries are modernizing their schools to equip younger generations with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the digital age.
Mauritania is advancing its education reform efforts by integrating digital technologies into its system. On January 15, the Ministry of Education and System Reform hosted a workshop that brought together key stakeholders to develop a national roadmap for the digital transformation of education.
According to Yahya Boba Taleb, Secretary General of the Ministry of Education, the workshop aimed to create an education advancement plan with clear milestones for modernizing the sector. The resulting initiatives are expected to lay the groundwork for a sustainable and forward-looking reform tailored to address the country's current challenges.
This initiative aligns with Mauritania's ongoing Digital Transformation Strategy and follows the country's recent participation in the FIFA Foundation's Digital Education Program, marking it as the first African nation to join. The program aims to train 10,000 Mauritanian children aged 6 to 12 over three years in coding, robotics, and digital literacy.
Once finalized, the roadmap will focus on integrating technology into the education system in a cohesive and inclusive manner, with a focus on improving access, quality, and equity in education. It will draw on international best practices to ensure a modernized approach that meets 21st-century demands. Particular attention will be given to rural areas, where students often have limited access to modern educational resources.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
In today's rapidly evolving world of information and communication technologies, regional and international partnerships are crucial for driving inclusive growth, fostering innovation, and enhancing the competitiveness of economies on the global stage.
The Federation of Services of Mauritania and Senegal's Organization of ICT Professionals (OPTIC) signed a memorandum of understanding on Monday, January 13, during Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko's official visit to Mauritania. The agreement aims to deepen digital cooperation between the two nations and promote sustainable economic integration.
"This agreement seeks to structure and intensify business partnerships and collaboration between our digital ecosystems to accelerate digital transformation in our countries," said Mbagnick Diop, president of the Senegalese Business Movement.
The partnership underscores a shared commitment to developing the digital private sectors in Mauritania and Senegal. It includes several initiatives such as jointly promoting flagship events and activities in the tech sector, organizing forums and B2B meetings between digital enterprises and other industries seeking digitization, and creating a framework to harmonize public-private dialogue on key issues like human capital, funding, and research and development.
The collaboration is expected to speed up digital transformation in both countries while unlocking new economic and social opportunities. As Senegal positions itself as a tech hub with initiatives like the “New Deal Technologique”, Mauritania is stepping up efforts to modernize its digital infrastructure and administration.
This synergy between the two neighboring nations could serve as a model for other West African partnerships, reinforcing the region’s role in Africa’s burgeoning digital economy. The sector’s value is projected to reach $180 billion by 2025, according to a report by Google and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
The Tunisian government views the digitization of services as a key solution to simplify administrative procedures, reduce processing times, and enhance transparency in its interactions with citizens.
Tunisian Transport Minister Rachid Amri confirmed the upcoming launch of a national ride-hailing application on Monday. The minister, speaking on a private radio station, said the domestically developed app aims to provide a high-quality, accessible, and better-regulated transportation service for citizens.
Amri said the app will ensure the availability of taxis, reasonable prices, and quality service. Unlike existing platforms, fares will be capped at 1.5 times the value of the traditional taxi meter to avoid excessive charges that burden citizens.
This announcement comes amid demands from individual taxi drivers for an increase in the current meter rate, which is set at 900 millimes. Drivers are advocating for it to be raised to two dinars ($0.62 USD) to cover the fixed costs of their operations, which have risen significantly in recent years.
Beyond regulating fares and services, this application is fully aligned with the Tunisian government’s goals for digital transformation and public service modernization. Tunisia already stands out as a leader in North Africa and ranks third on the continent for e-government, according to the United Nations’ 2024 E-Government Survey (UN DESA). With a score of 0.6935 out of 1, Tunisia far exceeds the African average of 0.4247, illustrating its progress in digitizing services.
The new platform, set to be operational by the end of the first half of 2025, also aims to highlight local technological expertise while creating a fair framework for drivers and a more accessible system for users. It is expected to improve citizens’ daily lives while strengthening the national digital economy.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji