Tech (1074)
Morocco's e-government journey began in 2013 with the Maroc Numérique Plan and advanced in 2020 with the Maroc Digitale Strategy. By 2030, the government aims to accelerate this progress, creating a more efficient administration.
Morocco plans to launch its digital public services portal, e-services, on February 14, 2025, according to local media reports. Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, the Minister Delegate in charge of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, made the announcement on Tuesday before the Public Finance Control Committee at the House of Representatives, the reports said.
The online portal already centralizes around 600 public services, including more than 300 for citizens, about 200 for businesses, and nearly 100 for public administrations. The goal is to improve access to administrative services by streamlining procedures and reducing processing times.
The initiative is part of the Digital Morocco 2030 strategy, unveiled in September 2024. According to the United Nations, Morocco currently scores 0.5618 out of 1 on the Online Service Index, part of the E-Government Development Index (EGDI). The country ranks 100th globally and 11th in Africa, with ambitions to break into the global Top 50 by 2030.
The portal's launch is expected to facilitate interactions between citizens and the administration, improve access to essential services, and contribute to better digital governance. The Digital Morocco 2030 strategy document states that processing times for requests should be reduced by 50%, the reports added.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Google and the IFC project that Africa's digital economy will make up 5.2% of the continent's GDP by 2025. While this potential attracts some tech companies, others are strategically pulling back.
IBM is ending operations in Nigeria, Ghana, and other key African markets, transferring its regional functions to MIBB, a subsidiary of Midis Group, a multinational IT and telecommunications conglomerate, effective April 1, the company said. The transfer will also affect 34 other African countries where IBM has a presence.
"IBM are partnering with MIBB to launch an alternative operating model, and are still committed to doing business in Africa, this new operating model shows a strong commitment by IBM to a continued focus in Africa. IBM will continue to invest and innovate in Africa, including through the ongoing development of the industry’s most cutting-edge AI and hybrid cloud technology to ensure the success of our clients," IBM said in a statement.
IBM, present in Nigeria for over 50 years, has provided infrastructure and consulting services to critical industries such as banking, telecommunications, oil, gas, and government. The company cited growing competition from companies like Dell and Huawei, combined with global financial challenges, as factors in the repositioning.
In 2024, IBM's consulting business revenue declined 2% to $5.18 billion, while infrastructure sales dropped 8%, the company reported. Overall revenue increased 1% to $17.55 billion, driven by a 10% rise in software sales to $7.92 billion. Its exit comes as cloud adoption expands rapidly across Africa. A Telecom Advisory Services study commissioned by AWS projects cloud usage in Nigeria to triple over the next decade, potentially contributing $30.2 trillion to the country's economy by 2033.
MIBB will take over operations, support, and local client relations while marketing IBM’s products and services, including software, hardware, cloud, and consulting, the company said.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Blockchain, an innovative and decentralized technology, opens up vast opportunities for Africa, particularly in securing transactions and improving transparency. Exploring this technology is of strategic importance for the continent's development.
Guinea's Minister of Posts, Telecommunications, and the Digital Economy, Rose Pola Pricemou (photo), met on Monday with a delegation from cryptocurrency firm Tether Limited to discuss potential collaboration on driving innovation and technological development in the country, the ministry said.
Discussions focused on developing innovative technology solutions, promoting blockchain training, and implementing awareness programs through digital hubs. The initiative aims to foster an innovation-friendly environment and strengthen synergies among digital sector stakeholders.
The potential partnership comes as Guinea undergoes rapid digital transformation, including the imminent launch of the Cité des Sciences et de l’Innovation de Guinée (CSIG). Under construction since July, the CSIG aims to become a West African hub of excellence for innovation. The collaboration with Tether is intended to enhance blockchain understanding and promote the technology among entrepreneurs, startups, and local institutions.
A recent report by Fortune Business Insights estimated the global blockchain market at $17.57 billion in 2023, projecting it to reach $825.93 billion by 2032, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 52.8%.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Global cooperation in space is booming, with countries sharing technology, data, and know-how. The Republic of Congo, with Kazakhstan's help, is working to boost its tech skills and better manage its resources.
The Republic of Congo and Kazakhstan signed an investment agreement on Tuesday to develop a high-resolution Earth observation satellite system, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry said.
The signing ceremony, held at the ministry, was attended by representatives from JSC NC Kazakhstan Gharysh Sapary, the Kazakh space agency, and a Congolese delegation.
"In addition to the satellite platform, Kazakhstan offers a comprehensive solution, including training and knowledge transfer. Kazakhstan is strengthening its position as a center for technological development, and international partners trust our solutions. This is already the second successful export, confirming the high level of the domestic space industry," said Zhaslan Madiyev, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry.
The agreement follows a joint roadmap signed on August 2, 2024, outlining strategic priorities for the collaboration and aligns with Congo’s strategy to diversify its technological partnerships and use space technology to address challenges including national security, natural resource management, agricultural monitoring, environmental protection and urban planning.
The Republic of Congo joins an international network of Earth observation satellites alongside countries like Mongolia. Once in orbit, the satellite will significantly improve forest monitoring, natural disaster management, agricultural activity tracking and urban infrastructure planning, the ministry said. The resulting data exchange and scientific cooperation will drive technological innovation, strengthening Congo’s digital sovereignty in a rapidly expanding strategic sector.
According to Mordor Intelligence, the global remote sensing satellite market was valued at $43.36 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $76.88 billion by 2029, growing at an annual rate of 12.14% over the forecast period.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
In today's digital world, AI is crucial for business growth. To remain competitive, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) need to adopt these technologies, boosting both innovation and efficiency.
The General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) announced, yesterday, the launch of “Génération AI: Booster 1000 PME Marocaines,” a program to help 1,000 Moroccan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) adopt artificial intelligence. Developed in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and LinkedIn, the initiative will provide access to specialized AI training.
Through this program, entrepreneurs will receive LinkedIn learning licenses, enabling them to acquire essential AI skills and leverage its opportunities. In addition, several training modules will be made available, covering strategic topics such as innovation, sustainable development, and digital transformation. These individual and non-transferable licenses will remain valid until September 2025.
The initiative comes at a time when digital transformation is becoming a key driver of competitiveness for Moroccan businesses. A report published on May 30 by consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) revealed that 27% of surveyed African business leaders stated their companies had already adopted generative AI, compared to a global average of 32%. The study, conducted across 105 countries, was based on a survey of 380 African executives, highlighting the continent’s relative lag in AI adoption.
By enhancing entrepreneurs’ skills, “Génération AI” aims to accelerate Morocco’s digital transformation. Supported by the Association des Femmes Entrepreneurs du Maroc (AFEM) and Technopark, the program seeks to have a significant impact on the country's business ecosystem. By facilitating AI adoption and helping SMEs upskill, this initiative could play a crucial role in integrating emerging technologies, driving growth and competitiveness for Moroccan businesses in the digital era.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Digital transformation and cybersecurity have become central to national security strategies worldwide. Strengthening ICT infrastructure and digital security capabilities can significantly enhance military operations, disaster response, and secure communication networks.
On January 30, 2025, the Director General of the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) Collins Mbulo met with Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele to explore areas of collaboration, focusing on ICT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital solutions for military and national defense needs.
Lt. Gen. Zyeele welcomed the strong partnership between the two institutions, emphasizing the need for proactive collaboration in tackling national security challenges in an increasingly digital world. “I have no doubt that your institution shall continue to positively impact on my organisation’s achievement of my vision towards modernisation in this technological environment,” he said.
The Zambia Army Commander also urged ZICTA to encourage mobile network providers to expand coverage in areas where the Army has a significant presence, improving communication and operational efficiency.
To further strengthen cooperation, Engr. Mbulo proposed establishing regular communication channels for knowledge-sharing on spectrum management and cybersecurity, ensuring both institutions are equipped to address emerging digital threats.
The World Bank’s Digital Economy Diagnostic Report highlights Zambia's notable progress in digital transformation, particularly in digital infrastructure, financial services, and platforms. As the country advances technologically, the Zambia Army's participation in digital initiatives is expected to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies in defense operations, enhancing national security and operational efficiency.
The collaboration between ZICTA and the Zambia Army highlights the growing intersection of ICT and national security, reinforcing Zambia’s commitment to leveraging technology for defense, connectivity, and digital innovation.
Hikmatu Bilali
To address challenges in accessing educational resources and modernize teaching methods, some countries are investing in digital technology. This tech integration aims to improve learning outcomes, build stronger skill sets, and foster innovation, which are all crucial for economic competitiveness.
On Monday, February 3, Guinea’s Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah officially presented 1,000 laptops to students from the country’s public universities. This initiative, supported by MouNa Group Technologies in partnership with the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation, aims to enhance student access to digital tools and promote technological progress in Guinea's education sector.
"The transformation we are initiating today must go hand in hand with a change in mindset. Our students must use these tools to gain knowledge, not just for entertainment. The future of our country depends on our ability to train talents that align with global technological advancements. That is why we will accelerate the development of the Higher Institute of Technology in Mamou, with the ambition of producing computers locally and achieving digital autonomy," the Prime Minister stated.
This initiative is part of the Simandou Academy, a key element of the Simandou 2040 project launched by President Mamadi Doumbouya. The program aims to position Guinea as a hub for research and innovation, addressing challenges related to sustainable development and technological sovereignty. According to Amadou Oury Bah, 2,200 primary schools across the country will soon incorporate digital tools into their teaching methods. Beginning with primary education, students will use tablets to access learning materials, ensuring they meet international educational standards.
By investing in digital education, Guinea is laying the groundwork for a more modern and inclusive education system while equipping its youth with the skills necessary to thrive in the digital economy. This commitment to innovation and digital competency represents a strategic asset for the country’s sustainable development and global competitiveness.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Digital solutions streamline public services, improve transparency, and give citizens easier access to a more modern and efficient government.
Côte d'Ivoire launched, last Thursday, its e-Justice platform, a key step in modernizing its public administration and improving access to judicial services. The platform allows citizens in Yopougon and Dabou to apply online for nationality certificates.
The e-Justice platform introduces several features designed to streamline the application process. Each applicant receives a unique identification number, and the platform uses a visible electronic seal for document authentication. Authentication is also handled through the VERIF application from the National Agency for Civil Registration and Identity (ONECI). Applicants can track the status of their applications in real-time, reducing administrative burdens and processing delays.
"Justice must be accessible, efficient, and transparent for all," said Jean Sansan Kambile, Minister of Justice and Human Rights. "Today, we are laying a crucial foundation for a more modern Côte d'Ivoire. This platform is a symbol of transformation and progress, serving every Ivorian."
The initiative is in line with Côte d'Ivoire's national digital transformation strategy, which aims to improve the efficiency of public services. According to the latest United Nations e-Government Report, Côte d'Ivoire ranks 124th out of 193 countries in online government development, with a score of 0.5587 out of 1. While the report acknowledges progress, including projects like e-Justice, it also highlights the need for further development to reach the level of the world’s most advanced digital administrations.
The launch of e-Justice marks the start of a digital transformation within Côte d'Ivoire’s judicial sector. The project will expand to other jurisdictions and incorporate new services, such as criminal record management, in the coming months. The ultimate goal is to harmonize and modernize the entire judicial system, providing citizens with a more accessible, secure, and efficient justice system.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Collaboration between startups is a key driver of innovation and growth. By pooling resources, expertise, and networks, startups can more effectively overcome challenges related to funding, expansion, and market access.
The Digital Tunisia program has officially launched its first phase, focusing on the agritech sector. Led by consulting firm STECIA International in partnership with Qawafel, a program supporting Tunisian startups, the initiative aims to facilitate market access for Tunisian companies in agritech, healthtech, and edtech in Senegal and Mauritania.
In this initial phase, five innovative Tunisian companies will receive tailored support, including specialized training and strategic guidance to help them break into the Senegalese market. A business prospecting mission is scheduled for May 2025, providing participants with the opportunity to meet local partners and explore collaboration prospects.
The second phase will shift focus to healthtech and edtech. Six Tunisian startups in these sectors will be selected for market entry support in Mauritania. A prospecting mission and B2B meetings will take place in October 2025, helping companies explore export and cooperation opportunities.
Funded by the French Development Agency (AFD) and implemented by Expertise France, the program is part of a broader regional cooperation effort to strengthen trade and technological exchanges between North and West Africa. It aligns with Qawafel’s objectives of fostering economic development initiatives across the Maghreb and West Africa.
In the long run, the project aims to enhance cooperation among businesses in the three countries, position Tunisian startups as key players in the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem, and pave the way for future collaborations in other strategic sectors. By fostering interregional cooperation and technological innovation, the initiative seeks to develop solutions tailored to the needs of the African market.
Samira Njoya
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
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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