Tech (1035)
The Nigerian government is taking steps to develop digital skills among its population, with a focus on its youth. In May 2024, Nokia partnered with the country's telecom regulator to train young Nigerians in 4G and 5G technologies.
Swedish tech company Ericsson plans to invest $19 million in building a technology center in Nigeria. The initiative was disclosed on Thursday, October 17, by Peter Olusoji Ogundele, the managing director of the company’s Nigerian subsidiary, during a business forum held as part of a two-day working visit by Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shettima (pictured), in Sweden.
“Nigeria has enough youths that can come into that field. We can train them, Ericsson will also take part in it, and some of them we can export to the world, and we will be like another India,” Ogundele stated.
This partnership comes in the context of increasing demand for digital skills as the country’s digital transformation accelerates. In October 2023, the government launched the "3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT)" program, aiming to train 3 million Nigerians in technical skills over three years. In recent months, it has also formed partnerships with companies such as Finnish equipment manufacturer Nokia and telecom infrastructure builder IHS Towers to train Nigerians in digital competencies.
Ericsson’s initiative is expected to create additional jobs and enhance the skills of workers, addressing the growing need for a qualified workforce as Nigeria’s digital transformation progresses. A 2021 World Bank study estimates that Nigeria will require approximately 28 million workers trained in digital skills across various economic sectors by 2030.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important as more of Africa’s economy, businesses, and public services go digital. Establishing cybersecurity infrastructure is a crucial step for several reasons, particularly given the context where data protection and digital security are critical for economic stability and growth.
The Federal Government of Nigeria, in partnership with cybersecurity firm Cisco, has announced plans to establish a state-of-the-art cybersecurity and broadband laboratory. This initiative aims to strengthen Nigeria's digital infrastructure and enhance its cybersecurity capabilities.
The announcement was made by Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, after an inspection of the proposed facility on October 16. He noted that the collaboration with Cisco follows months of discussions, including talks "most recently on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) in New York, where they reaffirmed their commitment to supporting our digital transformation initiatives."
Cybercrime in Nigeria is on the rise, with data breaches increasing by 64% in Q1 2023 compared to the previous quarter, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) highlights this concerning trend. This makes the initiative even more crucial for economic stability.
The lab will play a significant role in improving the country's cybersecurity capabilities, which is essential as more Nigerian businesses and individuals adopt digital platforms. Strengthening cybersecurity will not only help to protect sensitive data but also boost public confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy, enabling its continued growth.
Hikmatu Bilali
With an increasing number of young, tech-savvy consumers and rising internet penetration across the continent, Jumia’s strengthened presence could drive significant growth and innovation, ultimately contributing to the development of Africa’s broader eCommerce ecosystem.
On October 16, Jumia Technologies AG, the African eCommerce giant, announced plans to cease its operations in South Africa and Tunisia by the end of 2024. This strategic move aims to optimize resource allocation, allowing the company to concentrate on core markets with higher growth potential, such as Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, and Morocco. The decision follows a thorough review of Jumia’s operations led by CEO Francis Dufay.
Explaining the move, Dufay said, “After a thorough analysis, we made the difficult decision to close down our operations in South Africa and Tunisia. The macroeconomic conditions in both markets, coupled with stiff competition, have limited growth potential.” In 2023, Jumia's South African arm, operating under the brand Zando, and its Tunisian operations contributed only 3.5% and 2.7% of total orders, respectively, underscoring their minimal impact on the company’s overall performance.
This closure aligns with Jumia's broader effort to streamline operations and enhance profitability amid challenging market conditions and competitive pressures. As the company refocuses on its core markets, it aims to leverage its marketplace, logistics network, and JumiaPay platform to drive sustainable growth in Africa’s most promising regions. This pivot reflects Jumia's commitment to adapting its strategy to navigate complex market dynamics and return to profitability.
According to the Africa E-Commerce Market Size, Share, Trends 2024-2032 report by the IMARC Group, the market is projected to reach $939.8 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.4% from 2024 to 2032. This rapid expansion highlights the increasing role that online shopping will play in Africa's future, fueled by rising internet access, growing mobile penetration, and a youthful, tech-savvy population.
Hikmatu Bilali
Partnerships with advanced technology nations can accelerate Africa’s digital transformation by bringing in expertise, infrastructure, and cutting-edge technology. This helps build local capacity, allowing African nations to become more self-reliant and competitive globally in fields like tech manufacturing and innovation.
Kenya signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on October 15 with the Korea Electronic Association (KEA) to establish a $1.4 million tech manufacturing support center at Konza Technopolis. This initiative aims to accelerate local tech production and further establish Kenya as a technology hub in Africa. The center will support product launches, workforce training, and local production of high-tech products from leading Korean companies.
John Paul Okwiri, CEO of Konza Technopolis, emphasized the center’s potential to advance the region’s tech landscape, citing it as a “testament to our take off as we expect substantial investment by korea companies in the electronics and IT ecosystem.”
The center’s construction, expected to take two to three years, will be managed by KEA, which represents over 370 major Korean tech firms, including Samsung and LG Electronics. The project will unfold in four stages: initial planning, electronics manufacturing training, equipment installation, and operational expansion with enterprise support.
In its ECONOMIC SURVEY 2024, the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics revealed that the Information and Communication sector contributed 9.3% to GDP in 2023. To diversify the economy, the government aims to see this sector take on greater economic value. It has been undertaking policy reforms and major infrastructure projects to this end for several years to attract investors. This Tech Manufacturing Hub is one of the manifestations of this ambition.
The center is set to support the annual launch of 30 tech products, reducing average production time to six months. It also aims to train approximately 100 individuals while supporting over 100 local businesses. This collaboration reflects Kenya’s strategy to harness technology for economic growth, create jobs, and enhance its role in Africa’s digital economy.
Hikmatu Bilali
As the world becomes increasingly digital, it's essential for the judicial system to effectively manage cases involving digital evidence. In Africa, initiatives are underway to adapt to these new realities.
The Seychelles judicial system announced on Tuesday, October 15, a two-day training session at the Palais de Justice in Port Island. Conducted in partnership with the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) and the U.S. Secret Service, the initiative aimed to strengthen the skills of Seychellois judges and legal professionals in handling and authenticating digital evidence.
According to a statement from the judicial system, the training emphasized the need to understand how digital information flows, the importance of protecting people's privacy online, and the difficulties of using digital evidence in court cases, especially when the crimes happen across different countries. Topics covered included the evolution of laws in response to digital advancements, the balance between privacy protection and security requirements, and the authentication of digital evidence. Judges were trained to distinguish between legitimate evidence and potentially falsified information, using examples from social media platforms like Facebook and manipulated images.
This initiative comes amid a global trend where the use of digital data is becoming increasingly vital for the administration of justice. The digital era and the emergence of new technologies, such as AI, demand that judicial systems modernize. A survey by Cellebrite, an Israeli cybersecurity firm, revealed that 60% of over 2,000 investigators, prosecutors, managers, and digital forensics experts surveyed believe digital evidence is more critical than DNA. Additionally, 74% of respondents stated that digital data increases the success rate in resolving cases, underscoring the crucial need for specialized training in this area.
As a result, judges in the Seychelles are now better equipped to tackle challenges associated with managing digital evidence. This initiative not only enhances the judiciary's ability to address current challenges but also reinforces its commitment to transparency, security, and fairness in the age of digital transformation.
Samira Njoya
The Congolese government has made digital technology a cornerstone of its socioeconomic development. To achieve its goals, the administration must ensure the security of the national cyberspace.
On Tuesday, October 15, the Congolese Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy launched a cybersecurity training seminar for judicial and law enforcement bodies. The initiative, supported by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the African Center for Artificial Intelligence Research (CARIA), will run until October 17.
“This training will enable our security and judiciary institutions to develop essential skills for combating cybercrime, including identifying cyberattacks, collecting digital evidence, analyzing data, tracking cybercriminals, and issuing sanctions,” stated Juste Désiré Mondelé, the Deputy Minister to the Minister of the Interior in charge of Decentralization and Local Development.
This initiative reflects the Congolese government’s commitment to anticipating threats amid the rise of cybercrime across Africa. According to the African Cybersecurity Market, the number of cyberattacks on the continent increased by 23% in the first half of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. Strengthening the capabilities of judicial and law enforcement bodies is therefore “essential for improving operational competencies in this constantly evolving field.”
The 2024 edition of the Global Cybersecurity Index by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) places Congo in the category of countries that have done the minimum in terms of cybersecurity, with a score of 27.61 out of 100. The country’s relative strengths lie in regulatory measures (14.12/20) and cooperation (8.87/20). However, it needs to make significant improvements, particularly in technical and organizational measures and capacity development. For the latter, the country scored 0 out of 20.
This training aims to ensure a safer cyberspace as the Congolese government positions digital technology as a cornerstone of its socio-economic development in the years to come.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
Investors' continued interest in Nigeria's tech sectors suggests strong underlying fundamentals and growth potential. A thriving startup ecosystem can provide much-needed employment and stimulate economic growth.
The United Arab Emirates is keen to collaborate with Nigeria to support the growth of its rapidly expanding tech startup ecosystem. Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, made this commitment at GITEX Global, the world’s largest startup and investor event, currently taking place in Dubai from October 14-18.
Belhoul highlighted the importance of partnerships in boosting Nigeria’s digital economy, stating, “We are very much open to collaborations in terms of technology development.” He also acknowledged Nigeria's emerging status in Africa's tech landscape, with a dynamic startup scene that has drawn significant investment, particularly in areas like fintech, healthtech, and agritech.
This partnership will foster an innovation-friendly environment, offer funding opportunities, and encourage knowledge exchange between tech professionals from the UAE and Nigeria.
Nigeria is well-positioned to seize these opportunities, as it has consistently attracted significant investor interest in key sectors. According to PwC's 2023 report, “Growing the Nigerian Technology Ecosystem through the Capital Market,” Nigeria received half of the total funding that went to Africa's "Big Four" tech markets between 2015 and 2022, a period in which these four markets accounted for 73% of all funding in Africa. This underscores Nigeria's potential as a leading tech hub on the continent and highlights the critical role of strategic investments in driving sustainable economic growth.
Hikmatu Bilali
In today's digital world, data management is a top priority for governments and businesses alike. Implementing solutions like artificial intelligence is crucial to tackling the challenges of information security and confidentiality.
Morocco will accelerate its digital transformation by leveraging the expertise of AI71, a company specializing in artificial intelligence (AI). On Monday, October 14, a partnership agreement was signed in Dubai during the Gitex Global technology exhibition between Morocco's Ministry of Digital Transition and the United Arab Emirates' Technology Research Council, which owns AI71.
Under the agreement, Morocco will leverage AI-based solutions developed by AI71. In addition to integrating these advanced technologies, the initiative aims to support Moroccan startups by providing them with privileged access to innovative solutions through partnerships with the Emirati company. The goal is to boost these young companies' competitiveness on the international stage.
This partnership is part of the "Morocco Digital 2030" strategy and strengthens the country's digital transformation efforts. It particularly focuses on adopting AI solutions like "Falcon," which will provide Moroccan businesses and institutions with effective tools for data management and protection. These solutions will enhance information confidentiality and security, addressing the current challenges of handling personal data.
The management of sensitive data is a critical issue for Moroccan startups. AI, particularly through AI71's models, could offer automated solutions to secure data, increase transparency, and ensure compliance with international standards while fostering digital innovation and growth for startups. According to a study by PwC, AI adoption could generate up to $1.2 trillion in Africa by 2030, representing a 5.6% increase in the continent's GDP.
Samira Njoya
With technological advancements, there are increasingly sophisticated regulatory challenges around data privacy, cybersecurity, and online safety. Establishing a unified regulatory platform supports broader goals, like increasing internet penetration and digital literacy, which are vital for economic development in the digital age.
On October 10, South Africa launched the ICT and Media Regulators Forum (ICTMRF) to unify regulatory efforts in ICT and media. The initiative, under the theme “United for a better digital world" will enhance regulatory cooperation, reduce redundancies, and address challenges posed by the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
ICASA CEO Tshiamo Maluleka-Disemelo, chair of the forum, highlighted that the goal of the partnership is “to work together to solve shared challenges and seize new opportunities,” while emphasizing the forum’s potential to create a more responsive regulatory framework.
The forum includes the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), the Information Regulator, the .ZA Domain Name Authority (ZADNA), and the Film and Publication Board (FPB). It will focus on data privacy, cybersecurity, and online safety, among other priorities, and aims to foster synergy among participating entities to address issues like child safety online and harmful content.
The move addresses long-standing concerns about fragmented ICT regulation in South Africa. The ICT market in South Africa is expected to grow at a steady rate, driven by the adoption of digital services and technology integration across industries. Mordor Intelligence projects the market to grow from an estimated USD 36.81 billion in 2024 to USD 53.85 billion by 2029, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9% over the forecast period.
Addressing regulatory fragmentation through platforms like the newly established ICT and Media Regulators Forum could enhance coherence and make South Africa’s regulatory framework more agile and efficient. This is crucial for maintaining global competitiveness and attracting investments in digital infrastructure.
Hikmatu Bilali
The government is committed to transforming Djibouti into a digital powerhouse by 2035. Recognizing that young people are essential to this transition, they are investing heavily in developing technological skills among the youth population.
Djibouti is set to launch a new coding and IT school, the Djibouti Code Campus (DCC), aimed at equipping young people with the skills needed for the digital age. The official signing of the school's statutes took place on Sunday, October 13, under the patronage of Mariam Hamadou Ali, Minister of Digital Economy and Innovation.
In her speech, Minister Ali highlighted the importance of this initiative for Djibouti's future development. "A nation's progress is primarily driven by its human capital. By training experts in cutting-edge technologies, we are empowering our youth to actively contribute to Djibouti's prosperity and modernization," she said.
The DCC aligns with the government's "Smart Nation" strategy, which seeks to transform Djibouti into a digital hub in East Africa. Inspired by the renowned Ecole 42 programming school, the DCC will employ an innovative approach focused on project-based learning, autonomy, and collaboration. This method has proven successful in major cities worldwide, with job placement rates exceeding 90%.
Supported by the private sector and international partners, the DCC will offer free, accessible training in high-demand skills like coding and artificial intelligence. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide, improve youth employability, and encourage entrepreneurship. By investing in this innovative educational model, Djibouti is positioning its youth to play a key role in the global digital economy and fostering the country's modernization and economic growth.
Djibouti is targeting digital emergence by 2035. According to the "Measuring Digital Development – ICT Development Index 2024" published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Djibouti scored 61.6 out of 100 on ICT development in 2024. This ranking placed Djibouti 17th in Africa out of 45 countries, with Libya leading the continent at 88.1 points. Djibouti's score was above the regional average, demonstrating its efforts to strengthen its digital sector.
Samira Njoya
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The Senegalese government is embracing artificial intelligence as a powerful tool for driving development across all sectors. As part of its strategy, the government is exploring the establishment of a dedicated AI computing center, along with other initiatives.
The Senegalese Ministry of Communication, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy, in partnership with the French Embassy and AI HUB Senegal, has launched a seed fund of 59 million CFA francs (approximately $98,222) to support the development of artificial intelligence (AI)-based solutions. The call for applications, unveiled on Saturday, October 12, is open until Tuesday, October 15.
As part of this initiative, grants ranging from €5,000 ($5,466) to €10,000 will be awarded to Senegalese entrepreneurs across various sectors. These include agriculture, education, energy, e-commerce, finance, healthcare, business services, transportation, and more.
In the application form, entrepreneurs are asked to explain how their solutions stand out from those already available on the market. "This could involve aspects such as the use of advanced technologies, a novel approach to solving a problem, an innovative production or service delivery method, or significant added value that addresses an unmet need."
This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts by the Senegalese government to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence. For example, the government is considering building an AI computing center in partnership with U.S. tech giant Meta. This project, discussed in September during the 79th United Nations General Assembly, fits within Senegal’s new digital transformation strategy, SN 2034, known as the "Technological New Deal." Through the fourth pillar of this strategy, the government aims to create a conducive environment for technological innovation and entrepreneurship.
According to a study from the *International Journal of Science and Research Archive*, the integration of AI technologies allows small and medium-sized enterprises to leverage data for informed decision-making, enhance operational efficiency, and tailor customer experiences. In agriculture, for example, the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) notes that "AI tools can provide real-time data, perform predictive analytics, and execute algorithms to optimize farming practices, improve crop yields, enhance product quality, facilitate access to markets and credit, and reduce production costs."
Isaac K. Kassouwi
In recent years, the digital sector has become a key contributor to Senegal's economic and social development. In the coming years, the government plans to intensify its efforts and fully capitalize on the opportunities offered by this rapidly growing industry.
Senegal On Monday, October 14, officially presented its national development plan for 2050. Titled ‘Senegal 2050,’ the plan outlines the country’s path to economic transformation. Digital technologies play a key part in this path.
"Today, digital technology is revolutionizing the global economy. Our goal is to make it the driving force behind Senegal's future economy by promoting widespread adoption. This will enhance daily life, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen governance," said Victor Ndiaye, CEO of the consulting firm Performances Group and co-author of the national development plan.
Over the next 25 years, Senegal aims to digitize all sectors of its economy. Priorities include the digitization of land and real estate, an initiative designed to enhance fairness in land access and improve tax justice. Additionally, a reliable digital identity system will be implemented to allow citizens to easily connect to various online services.
The development of quality infrastructure, such as campuses dedicated to innovation and training, along with robust digital networks, is also at the heart of this strategy. The plan includes the creation of new smart cities, which will serve as hubs for technological and economic development.
In terms of human capital, the document emphasizes the creation of a dynamic ecosystem of economic activities and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), supported by three to four key growth sectors. These sectors will be driven by local champions aiming to produce high value-added goods for export.
Education and training will be central to this digital transformation. Schools, universities, and training centers will integrate advanced technology learning into their curricula, preparing all Senegalese to participate in the new digital economy.
The implementation of these projects will be detailed in the national digital strategy, the "Technological New Deal," currently under development. This plan will outline the concrete steps to achieve these ambitious goals. The ultimate objective is to ensure an inclusive and sustainable digital transformation, positioning Senegal among the region's most advanced economies by 2050.
Samira Njoya
Like many African countries, Algeria is striving to improve living standards and modernize its infrastructure. The launch of an instant payment system is part of these efforts to achieve sustainable prosperity and enhance financial inclusion.
Algeria plans an instant electronic payment system in the coming months, according to Nabil Dahia, Deputy Director General of the Interbank Pre-Clearing Center (CPI). The announcement was made during the International Conference on Digital Payments, organized last week by the Algerian Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Algeria, in partnership with the Arab Monetary Fund (AMF).
"Bank of Algeria is preparing the launch of the instant payment system project to achieve strategic goals related to financial inclusion, improve access to payment services, and reduce the costs and risks associated with transactions," said Nabil Dahia.
The upcoming system will allow financial transactions to be completed online instantly, enabling merchants to receive payment amounts immediately. Currently, funds paid by customers are credited to the merchant’s account after a delay of up to 72 hours. This marks a significant step forward in banking services, aiming to streamline payments and facilitate transactions.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to promote the adoption of electronic payments and the widespread use of digital banking services. It also aims to accelerate the digitization of commercial transactions and boost financial inclusion by making modern payment services more accessible to all citizens, including the unbanked.
These efforts are already yielding results, as shown by the latest report from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on ICT development. Published in June, the report awarded Algeria a score of 80.9 out of 100, a significant increase from the 77.8 points it received in 2023. This improvement reflects the government’s concrete actions to modernize its digital infrastructure and enhance access to ICTs.
The launch of the instant payment system is expected to bolster the country's competitiveness in the digital economy, simplify transactions for businesses and individuals, and contribute to reducing cash usage. It could also pave the way for further banking innovations, such as mobile wallet integration and the expansion of inclusive financial services, particularly for rural populations.
Samira Njoya
ICTs are at the heart of digital transformation, which has become a major priority for many African governments. To achieve their goals more quickly, states are relying on partnerships and mutual collaborations.
Côte d'Ivoire and Guinea, on Friday, October 11, signed two memorandums of understanding to accelerate their respective digital transformations. Signed by Kalil Konaté, Ivorian Minister of Digital Transition and Digitalization (photo, left), and Rose Pola Pricemou, Guinean Minister of Posts, Telecommunications, and the Digital Economy (photo, right), the agreement is the result of extensive negotiations, Guinea announced in an official statement.
“This agreement, the result of extensive negotiations, aims to strengthen cooperation and pool expertise in several strategic digital sectors, including fiber optic interconnection, collaboration in postal services, and the sharing of skills in telecommunications and digital technologies,” the statement reads.
In addition to physically interconnecting infrastructures, the agreement outlines plans to develop innovative digital services, enhance cybersecurity, and promote digital inclusion. Pilot projects are planned in smart agriculture, digital health, and online education.
This initiative is part of a broader regional effort to deepen digital integration in West Africa, with the ambition of creating a single digital market. It supports the modernization efforts of both countries across various sectors while encouraging the development of robust telecommunications infrastructure and improving digital services.
The cooperation is expected to improve the quality and coverage of connectivity services in both countries. According to the latest official data, Guinea has 13.4 million mobile subscribers and 7.7 million Internet users out of a population of approximately 15 million. In Côte d'Ivoire, mobile phone penetration stands at 172.2%, while Internet penetration reaches 93.7%, according to the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ARTCI).
Samira Njoya