Tech (968)
McKinsey estimates that artificial intelligence (AI) could contribute as much as $1.2 trillion to Africa's economy by 2030. Unlocking this potential will largely depend on strategic talent development, a path Cameroon is now strongly pursuing.
Cameroon aims to train 60,000 artificial intelligence (AI) specialists by 2040, including 40% women, as part of its National AI Strategy (SNIA). Minister of Posts and Telecommunications Minette Libom Li Likeng recently unveiled this initiative, which is part of a broader vision to position the country as an African hub for artificial intelligence.
The strategy's key objectives include creating 12,000 direct jobs, developing 12 sovereign solutions with significant socioeconomic impact, and anticipating an AI contribution to national GDP of between 0.8% and 1.2%. Special attention is being given to linguistic diversity, with efforts to develop AI models that incorporate national languages. This is seen as a crucial way to boost digital inclusion and promote local cultural heritage.
To achieve these ambitions, however, Cameroon must address several critical gaps. The country still lags significantly in digital infrastructure, particularly in deploying modern data centers, developing secure cloud platforms, and ensuring consistent broadband connectivity, especially in rural areas.
This reality is reflected at the continental level in the latest ranking by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Cameroon scored 46.3 out of 100, placing 30th out of 42 African countries. This result falls below the continental average of 56, underscoring the need for the country to accelerate its efforts.
Addressing Talent Shortages and Promoting Inclusion
Training qualified talent remains one of the main challenges. A shortage of engineers, researchers, and AI specialists is holding back sectoral growth. To address this, Cameroon will need to invest heavily in creating centers of excellence, establish schools and institutes focused on advanced technologies, and integrate AI training programs into secondary and university curricula. Structuring partnerships between universities, tech companies, and public institutions will be essential to align educational content with market needs.
In addition, it will be crucial to implement continuing education and professional retraining programs to equip a broad segment of the population with the digital skills needed for tomorrow’s economy. Expanding access to high-speed internet, especially in remote areas, must accompany this momentum, as should the stimulation of an innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem capable of attracting investors and fostering the emergence of local solutions.
The goal of training 40% women is ambitious and commendable. Achieving it calls for proactive measures such as awareness campaigns, mentoring, support for women’s careers in tech, and efforts to combat gender stereotypes in science-related fields.
Despite these challenges, encouraging signs are emerging. The recent adoption of a data protection law and the first national consultations on AI reflect a clear political will to establish a robust regulatory framework. This is an essential condition for structuring the sector and building trust among stakeholders.
Samira Njoya
Personalization, Data, Planning: How AI Is Transforming African Education
Africa faces a deep education crisis. Student numbers surge, teachers are scarce, and infrastructure lags behind. In 2024, UNESCO reported that 58% of adolescents aged 15 to 17 in sub-Saharan Africa do not attend school. The continent counts 98 million children outside the education system. Many schools lack electricity, internet, and basic resources.
AI Offers a Lifeline for Overworked Teachers
Teacher shortages cripple African classrooms. UNESCO says Africa needs to recruit more than 16.5 million teachers by 2030 to keep up with population growth. AI cannot replace teachers, but it can help them. Automated grading, custom teaching materials, and lesson planning tools lighten the load. In Kenya, teachers use the Kalasik assistant—a chatbot that generates lesson plans and automates repetitive tasks.
AI Delivers Personalized and Inclusive Learning
AI adapts learning to each student’s needs. Overcrowded classrooms make individual attention impossible, but smart systems change that. Students access interactive exercises, tutorials, and tailored feedback—even after school hours. Personalized learning keeps students engaged and cuts dropout rates, especially in rural and marginalized communities.
In West Africa, the Kwame for Science assistant tutors science students in 11 countries. It boasts an 87% accuracy rate for its top-three answers and serves 750 users over several months.
Data-Driven Decisions Shape Education Policy
AI gives education leaders real-time data. Ministries of Education spot low-enrollment regions, forecast teacher demand, and allocate resources where they matter most. Predictive analytics shifts planning from reactive to proactive, using demographic and school data.
Governments Put AI at the Heart of Education Strategy
Several African nations now weave AI into their education plans. Kenya launched a national AI strategy for 2025–2030 with UNESCO, focusing on digital skills in schools. Zambia and Côte d’Ivoire have also prioritized education in their AI strategies, promoting data analysis and personalized learning. Nigeria develops AI skills and integrates AI in education through partnerships with universities and private companies. Senegal, Burkina Faso, and Congo have added AI in education to their digital roadmaps.
Major Hurdles Remain
Despite these advances, African education systems face steep challenges in scaling AI. To begin with, poor digital infrastructure slows down deployment in many regions. Moreover, Teacher training on digital tools remains insufficient. Finally, data privacy and ethics are often under-regulated and sustainable funding models for EdTech remain elusive.
AI solutions need heavy investment and a solid business model. Protecting student data requires strict ethical rules. Tools must fit local languages and cultures. Above all, governments, partners, investors, and the private sector must commit long-term support to move beyond pilot projects and build a sustainable education system.
Samira Njoya
The rapid rise of remote work has fueled the phenomenon of digital nomads, creating new opportunities for African countries. With growing appeal, developing infrastructure, and policies still taking shape, the continent could very well become a major player in this new global work landscape.
Since 2020, the way people work has been changing in deep but often unnoticed ways. In only a few years, digital nomadism has evolved from a niche concept into a global trend. This rise has been fueled by the digital shift in many jobs, the growth of remote work, and a growing demand for more flexible living. While it first took hold in large Western cities, the movement is now spreading across Africa, a region with the potential to unlock billions of dollars in economic value if it takes the right steps.
A Global Movement with Local Impact
Digital nomads are workers who use a laptop and an internet connection to work from anywhere in the world. It could be a freelance marketer living in Nairobi for six months, a Senegalese developer dividing her time between Dakar and Bali, or an American designer spending the summer in Zanzibar.
According to 2025 data from Nomads.com, a global digital nomad community platform, there are now more than 80 million digital nomads worldwide—and the number keeps rising. Their financial footprint is significant. On average, a digital nomad earns $124,000 annually and spends between $1,000 and $3,000 per month in their host country on housing, food, entertainment, coworking spaces, and transport. This provides a steady stream of income for local economies, without the strain of mass tourism. Americans make up the largest share, with 46 million nomads. About 88% of global digital nomads come from countries outside Africa.
|
Category |
Subcategory |
Value |
|
Age |
53% are between 31 and 39 years old |
|
|
|
Men |
91% |
|
Gender |
Women |
7% |
|
Other genders |
2% |
|
|
Education |
90% have higher education |
|
|
|
Per city |
63 days |
|
Average length of stay |
||
|
Per country |
167 days |
|
|
Average annual income |
$124,304 |
|
|
|
Full-time employees |
38% |
|
Work Status |
Startup founders |
18% |
|
Freelancers |
18% |
|
|
Top Sectors (Men) |
Software development |
35% |
|
Web development |
28% |
|
|
Startup founders |
28% |
|
|
Marketing |
16% |
|
|
Top Sectors (Women) |
Marketing |
16% |
|
Creative industry |
15% |
|
|
Startups |
12% |
|
|
Software development |
10% |
|
|
Motivations |
Work setting + getaways in Africa |
Africa Steps Into the Spotlight
Africa is starting to gain recognition as an appealing destination for remote workers. Cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, Marrakech, Accra, Dakar, Abuja, Luanda, Libreville, and Cotonou are seeing growing interest. These places attract a new wave of remote workers seeking authentic experiences, lower living costs, and meaningful social connections. Many of these cities offer reliable high-speed internet, electricity, modern accommodation and workspaces, and access to food, transport, and healthcare—making it possible to balance productive workdays with tourist exploration.
This trend is not limited to foreign visitors. A growing number of young Africans in digital fields—web development, design, content creation, community management—are also embracing a mobile lifestyle, often within the continent. This intra-African nomadism is supported by countries offering full or partial visa exemptions, such as Senegal, Benin, Kenya, Ghana, and Rwanda. These policies are reshaping how professionals move and work in Africa’s digital age.
Billions in Economic Opportunity
According to global immigration firm Newland Chase, the 35 million digital nomads counted in 2021 contributed $787 billion to the global economy. Although detailed data for Africa is lacking, a modest projection suggests the continent could earn $6 billion per year if it hosted 500,000 foreign digital nomads spending $1,000 monthly. If Africa attracted just 2% of the world’s estimated 80 million nomads in 2025—that is 1.6 million individuals—the continent could bring in close to $20 billion annually through direct local spending.
Beyond daily spending, digital nomadism can fuel growth in sectors such as short-term housing, food and hospitality, internet services, local transport, and leisure activities like hiking and tourism. Thousands of small businesses—especially in urban areas—stand to benefit from this expanding market.
Early but Promising Initiatives
Some African countries have already started tailoring offers to digital nomads. In 2020, Mauritius introduced its Premium Visa. It is free, valid for one year (renewable), and available to citizens of 114 countries. Applicants must prove that their main income is earned outside Mauritius and show a minimum monthly income of $1,500.
Cape Verde launched a similar visa in 2020, targeting both tech and tourism. The visa lasts six months (renewable) and requires payment. Digital nomads in Cape Verde are exempt from income tax and local taxes. While there is no official income threshold, applicants must show an average bank balance of at least €1,500 over the previous six months.
In 2024, South Africa joined in with its digital nomad visa, allowing stays from three months to three years. Applicants must provide three months of bank statements showing a gross annual salary of at least 650,796 rand (about $36,782).
Other countries like Namibia and Kenya also launched digital nomad visas in 2024 to attract skilled professionals and boost their economies. However, Africa still lags behind Latin America and Southeast Asia, which already offer nomad visas, tech hubs, tax incentives, and tailored services.
Challenges That Remain
Africa has clear potential to benefit from digital nomadism. Internet coverage is improving across the continent. According to the International Telecommunication Union, 4G now covers 71% of the population, while 3G covers 86%. However, 5G still only reaches 11%. In urban areas, 4G covers 73% and 5G reaches 25%. Countries like South Africa, Senegal, Mauritius, Nigeria, Botswana, Ethiopia, Seychelles, Tunisia, and Lesotho already offer 5G access in their capitals. In rural areas, coverage is lower—49% for 4G, 26% for 3G, and 14% for 2G. While major cities usually offer stable internet, many secondary regions do not.
Another barrier is cost. The cheapest mobile data plan (2GB) costs 3.9% of the average monthly gross national income (GNI) per person, while fixed internet (5GB) costs 13.4% of GNI. These rates are considered high, exceeding the United Nations target of 2% of GNI for affordable access. Globally, the average cost is closer to 1% of GNI for mobile and 2.3% for fixed internet.
Other obstacles include political and security concerns, especially in areas affected by instability—although these are a minority. The lack of a clear legal status for digital nomads also makes many destinations less appealing. Tourist visas are not designed for extended stays and lack tailored benefits. To change this, digital nomadism needs to be integrated into national policies on tourism, entrepreneurship, and youth employment.
Digital nomadism is not just a trend or a lifestyle for Western elites. It reflects a deep shift in how the world works. Africa has a real chance to play a leading role—if it invests, plans, and innovates wisely.
• Cameroon launched its AI strategy to become Africa’s leading hub by 2040, with goals for jobs, training, and GDP growth.
• It focuses on governance, infrastructure, local language models, edge computing, talent, and regional cooperation.
• The IMF ranks Cameroon low in AI readiness (0.34/1), citing gaps the strategy aims to close.
On Monday, July 7, Minister of Posts and Telecommunications Minette Libom Li Likeng unveiled Cameroon’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (SNIA) during the second edition of the National Consultations on AI. This strategy, anchored in a vision for 2040, aims to position the country as a continental AI hub by focusing on sovereign, inclusive, and sustainable solutions rooted in African cultural realities.
The SNIA seeks to make Cameroon "the leading AI hub in Africa" by promoting solutions based on African values. Its key targets include training 60,000 individuals, with 40 percent being women. The strategy also aims to create 12,000 direct jobs, generate a GDP contribution from AI of between 0.8 percent and 1.2 percent, and develop 12 sovereign, high-impact AI solutions. Special attention is given to linguistic diversity through the development of multilingual models that incorporate national languages.
Seven Structural Pillars to Deliver the Strategy
The strategic document is built around seven interdependent pillars. The first pillar focuses on governance and digital sovereignty. This includes establishing a Cameroonian AI Authority, a Presidential Council on AI, and drafting a framework law that addresses ethical considerations and inter-ministerial coordination mechanisms. The second pillar addresses data and digital infrastructure, calling for the creation of a government Data Lake, mass digitization of public services, interoperability standards, and a targeted Open Data policy.
The third pillar promotes multilingual and inclusive AI through the development of a local language model, referred to as "GPT Cameroon." It also emphasizes enhancing national languages via linguistic research and voice data collection. The fourth pillar targets sovereign technological infrastructure, including the deployment of 15 regional Edge Computing nodes powered by solar microgrids to strengthen energy resilience.
The fifth pillar is dedicated to training, research, and human capital. Plans include establishing five AI centers of excellence, training 4,000 people annually, implementing a diaspora talent return program, and providing greater support for local research. The sixth pillar centers on innovation and sector-specific use cases. This aims to support startups through accelerators and encourage AI adoption in key areas such as health, agriculture, justice, and education.
Lastly, the seventh pillar emphasizes cooperation and regional outreach. This involves creating an AI network for Central Africa, strengthening international partnerships, and exporting "Made in Cameroon" digital solutions.
According to the 2024 AI Preparedness Index published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Cameroon scores 0.34 out of 1. This places it in the lower half of the global ranking. The country lags in digital infrastructure and innovation but shows promising potential in human capital. The national strategy specifically aims to address these gaps by accelerating regulatory alignment and encouraging AI adoption across public services.
With this roadmap, Cameroon aims to align with the continent’s broader digital transformation momentum and fully harness emerging technologies to support its socio-economic development.
Samira Njoya
Morocco is stepping up efforts to make digital technology a key driver of development and technological independence. The country plans to open an engineering school focused on digital transition and artificial intelligence.
On July 4, Minister of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni signed a partnership deal with Minister of Higher Education Azzedine El Midaoui and André Azoulay, president of the Foundation for Research, Development and Innovation in Science and Engineering (FRDISI). The agreement sets up the Higher School of Engineers in Digital Transition and Artificial Intelligence and launches specialized training programs.
The Ministry of Digital Affairs said the initiative aims to align academic programs with real-world needs. The goal is to match training to the demands of local regions, the economy, and national technology priorities.
This project supports Morocco’s “Digital Morocco 2030” strategy, which targets training 100,000 young people annually by 2030 and creating 240,000 digital sector jobs. The plan follows the National AI Forum held last week in Salé, where nine agreements were signed with public and private partners. The forum stressed the importance of building human capital and developing a national roadmap for ethical and responsible AI use.
The new school will train engineers who can create and implement innovative digital solutions across sectors like public services, healthcare, industry, and education. Morocco aims to solve internal challenges while preparing young people for the jobs of the future.
Beyond education, the project will boost Morocco’s digital sovereignty, drive innovation, and help position the country as a magnet for tech startups and regional R&D centers.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Edited in English by Ange Jason Quenum
- “Siraj” service covers 1.2 million students with tools for attendance tracking and records access.
- Part of a broader push to digitise education, including e-textbooks and diploma authentication.
- Low internet penetration and device access remain key implementation challenges.
Mauritania has launched a new digital service enabling parents to monitor their children’s school attendance, academic records and learning materials, authorities said on Tuesday, July 1, as the country accelerates efforts to modernise its education system.
The platform, called “Siraj,” is accessible via the government’s digital portal “Khidmati” and serves about 1.2 million students nationwide. Parents can view required textbooks, track absences, check annual grade averages, request school transfers, and locate schools on an interactive map.
The initiative is part of a national digital education transformation strategy under development. Earlier this year, officials began designing a roadmap to digitise the sector, including plans to introduce digital diplomas and an online training platform for primary school teachers. In October 2024, the government announced the rollout of e-textbooks.
Authorities said Siraj is intended to strengthen family engagement in education, a factor linked to improved academic performance. A 2023 UNESCO report, Edtech And Parental Engagement, cited strong potential for educational technologies to help parents better support their children’s learning.
However, implementation faces hurdles. UNESCO’s research on similar initiatives in Kenya highlighted obstacles such as limited parental involvement, lack of digital skills, and inadequate infrastructure.
In Mauritania, internet access remains uneven: only 37.4% of the population was online in 2023, according to the International Telecommunication Union. Ensuring that parents have internet-capable devices and affordable connectivity will be critical to the programme’s success, officials said.
- MPs propose a West African pact for responsible AI and multilingual digital content.
- Initiative aligns with ECOWAS Digital Strategy 2024–2029 and $10.5 mln World Bank project.
- Region aims to equip 63% youth population with 21st-century digital skills.
Integrating digital technologies into African education systems is often presented as a panacea for the structural weaknesses of the sector. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) wants to make it a strategic lever for its youth.
As part of efforts to modernise schools and train young people for the digital economy, West African lawmakers recommend drawing a regional pact for ethical and sovereign use of artificial intelligence in education.
Meeting since June 30 in Dakar, members of the ECOWAS Parliament’s joint committee on Education, Health, Culture, Telecommunications, and IT discussed accelerating the integration of technology into education systems across the region.
The proposed West African Pact would promote responsible AI, develop inclusive multilingual digital content, and strengthen teacher training through a regional EdTech lab network, officials said.
Lawmakers also called for expanded electricity and internet access in schools, a comprehensive mapping of digital platforms, support for homegrown innovation in universities, and deeper regional cooperation to share educational resources.
The discussions align with the ECOWAS Digital Strategy 2024–2029, adopted last October, which positions ICT and digital education as pillars for growth, inclusion, and regional autonomy.
Funding will partly come from the West Africa Regional Digital Integration Project (WARDIP), a $10.5 million World Bank programme aiming to improve connectivity and promote an integrated digital market.
Some member states, including Senegal and Nigeria, have already deployed online learning platforms and distributed tablets in rural communities. ECOWAS now plans to expand these efforts through transnational e-learning initiatives and a regional fund to narrow the educational digital divide.
With about 63% of the region’s population under 25, ECOWAS faces a demographic imperative to equip youth with relevant digital skills. The African Union estimates that $60 million will be needed over the next five years to finance large-scale digital education programmes across the continent.
Officials said the investments should not only improve employability and foster EdTech innovation but also reduce inequalities, enhance academic mobility, and bolster the region’s technological sovereignty.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
Senegal is ramping up partnerships to drive its digital transformation, and Visa is the latest global player to commit to this strategy. The move shows Senegal’s determination to modernize its financial system and boost digital inclusion.
On July 2, Minister of Communication, Telecommunications and Digital Economy Alioune Sall met with a Visa delegation led by Ismahill Diaby, Vice President and General Manager for West Africa, Francophone Central Africa, and Lusophone Africa. The meeting strengthened ties between Senegal and the global payments giant.
𝐑𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞́𝐠𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐥𝐞 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐝𝐮 𝐍𝐮𝐦𝐞́𝐫𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐞, 𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐥, 𝐞𝐭 𝐥𝐚 𝐝𝐞́𝐥𝐞́𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐝𝐞 𝐕𝐈𝐒𝐀 𝐝𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐞́𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐫 𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐞-𝐏𝐫𝐞́𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐞𝐭 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐮𝐫 𝐆𝐞́𝐧𝐞́𝐫𝐚𝐥… pic.twitter.com/gY2JfaMtPT
— Ministère Communication - Télécoms et Numérique (@mctngouvsn) July 2, 2025
They discussed ways to improve Senegal’s digital payment infrastructure, digitize public services, and expand access to modern solutions like contactless and mobile payments. Both sides agreed to set up a joint working group to identify priority projects and launch pilot programs with strong economic and social benefits.
This partnership fits into Senegal’s New Technological Deal, an ambitious digital strategy launched in February 2025. The plan aims to establish Senegal as a hub of innovation in Africa.
Visa, active in Senegal since 2001, has partnered with banks, telecoms, fintechs, and government bodies to modernize payments and promote financial inclusion. The company wants to build on this work by helping digitize public payments and working with local startups to develop solutions suited to Senegal’s needs.
Through this agreement, Senegal hopes to tap into Visa’s technology to boost public revenues, reduce the informal economy, grow the digital sector, and strengthen financial sovereignty. These goals align with the New Technological Deal’s focus on modernizing public administration, developing a local digital economy, and upgrading payment systems.
Samira Njoya
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Morocco signed a $22 million deal with China’s Jungnong to boost precision farming
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The project targets drought-hit semi-arid regions with smart irrigation and soil tech
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A new training center will prepare local workers for high-tech agriculture jobs
Morocco is turning to agricultural technology as a tool to reinforce its food security in the face of climate challenges. Last week, the Moroccan Ministry of Agriculture signed a $22 million investment agreement with Jungnong, the Hong Kong-based subsidiary of China Agricultural Development Group.
The project aims to deploy precision farming technologies in Morocco’s semi-arid regions, which are especially vulnerable to drought and water management challenges.
The plan includes digital platforms for soil nutrition management, remote monitoring systems, and real-time optimization tools for crop irrigation and fertilization. According to simulations provided by Jungnong, these technologies could boost agricultural yields by more than 20% per hectare. However, experts stress that these projections must be validated through field trials and independent assessments.
Beyond technology deployment, the partnership will also establish a training center focused on smart farming. The goal is to train several hundred Moroccan workers in new agricultural technologies. This is particularly relevant in a sector where 70% of farms are family-run, according to Morocco’s Economic, Social, and Environmental Council.
The initiative is part of Morocco’s “Generation Green 2020–2030” strategy, which emphasizes digitalization and skills development as key drivers for transforming the rural economy. Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari described the project as “an integrated development model combining technology with social impact.”
If successful, Morocco’s approach could serve as a model for other countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region that face similar challenges with productivity, water scarcity, and climate resilience. However, the project’s success will depend on Jungnong’s ability to adapt its solutions to local conditions, ensure effective skills transfer, and deliver measurable results in yields and food security.
Benin is ramping up its digital transformation through strategic partnerships to strengthen cybersecurity, drive innovation, and train future talent.
On the sidelines of the fifth Cyber Africa Forum (CAF) in Cotonou last week, the Agency for Information Systems and Digital (ASIN) — the government’s operational arm in the digital sector — signed three key agreements.
“CAF 2025 was the perfect setting to sign these three partnerships,” said Marc-André Loko, Director General of ASIN. “Benin, like other African countries, is truly engaging in a dynamic to become a producer of technology. We no longer want to be mere consumers of technology.”
ASIN signed the first two agreements with Senegal’s Orbus Digital Services (ODS) and Benin’s Quality Corporate. These deals aim to build digital trust by strengthening cybersecurity, improving data governance, and ensuring regulatory compliance. This effort is crucial as West Africa faces a surge in cyberattacks targeting governments, companies, and citizens.
ASIN signed the third agreement with the Institute for Inclusive Digital Africa (IIDiA), backed by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. This partnership will set up a digital innovation lab to spur innovation, train local talent, and modernize public services. The goal is to advance digital inclusion and develop new skills.
These agreements support Benin’s digital strategy, which aims to make technology a driver of inclusive growth. According to GSMA, digitalizing Benin’s economy could add up to CFA1,200 billion (around $2.2 billion) to the GDP by 2028, create over 300,000 jobs, and boost tax revenues.
With these new partnerships, Benin is laying the foundation for a stronger, more innovative, and more inclusive digital ecosystem. The deals reinforce Benin’s ambition to lead in technological innovation in West Africa, focusing on digital trust, inclusion, and local talent to build lasting digital sovereignty.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Edited in English by Ange Jason Quenum
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The use of social media has become an integral part of daily life in Africa, especially among young people. As the continent's digital adoption accelerates, the stakes for mental health grow higher. Without coordinated efforts from governments, tech companies, civil society, and communities, the promise of social media could be overshadowed by long-term psychological and societal harm.
Social media has revolutionized how people communicate, learn, and connect, creating vast opportunities for education, social mobilization, and economic growth. Yet, beneath these benefits lies a growing concern: their impact on mental health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines mental health as a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how individuals handle stress, learn, work effectively, recognize their potential, and actively participate in their communities.
A study by Ji Yuan of the Psychological Counseling Center at Xinghai Conservatory of Music in China, titled Is there a relationship between social media user intensity and mental well-being? An exploratory study, published in April 2025, found a strong link between heavy social media use and increased mental health issues, including higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
In Africa, where social media use is rapidly expanding, these challenges are becoming increasingly visible and urgent. From cyberbullying and digital addiction to social pressure and misinformation, the continent must grapple with complex threats to the psychological well-being of its population, particularly young people.
Social networks: a double-edged sword
Opportunities
On the one hand, social networks have transformed Africa’s information landscape. They provide millions of young people with unprecedented access to educational resources, health information, and knowledge about their rights. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp were widely used to spread vital health guidelines across countries such as South Africa and Kenya.
These platforms also act as powerful tools for self-expression and solidarity, empowering social movements like #EndSARS in Nigeria (a youth-led social movement that began online in 2020, demanding the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and #FeesMustFall in South Africa (a powerful student-led protest movement that began in October 2015 in South Africa), and enabling marginalized voices to be heard. Additionally, they serve as critical enablers for professional and entrepreneurial development through digital marketing, networking, and new business models. Countless young entrepreneurs in Ghana and Nigeria have leveraged Instagram and TikTok for digital marketing and to reach new customers.
Risks to mental health
On the other hand, the risks are substantial. Continuous exposure to idealized and carefully curated portrayals of others' lives often drives unhealthy social comparisons, fueling feelings of frustration, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Cyberbullying is also on the rise among African youth, sometimes with devastating consequences, including depression and even suicide. According to UNICEF, more than one-third of young people in 30 countries report being victims of online bullying, with platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter cited as the most common spaces for this abuse. In sub-Saharan Africa, 34% of respondents reported experiencing online bullying.
Excessive use of social networks is also linked to addiction, social isolation, sleep disturbances, and chronic stress. Meanwhile, the rapid spread of misinformation and radical content fuels collective anxiety and distrust, further undermining mental well-being.
Moreover, exposure to violent or pornographic content, sexualized livestreams, and online child exploitation remains a serious and largely under-addressed concern. In March this year, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) launched an urgent investigation following a BBC report alleging that minors in Kenya were involved in sexualized livestreams on TikTok, with the platform reportedly profiting from digital gifts sent by viewers.
Online child exploitation is a growing concern in Africa. A 2024 report by ChildFund International and the African Child Policy Forum revealed a significant increase in online child sexual exploitation and abuse across the continent, with over 60% of unidentified victims being young children, including infants and toddlers, and 65% being girls.
Challenges specific to Africa
Africa faces unique obstacles in addressing these issues. There is a lack of harmonized legislation: most African countries do not have specific laws to effectively moderate online content, protect data, or combat cybercrime.
As of now, only 36 out of 55 African countries have enacted data protection laws, according to Data Protection Africa. Examples include South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), enforced since 2021; Kenya’s Data Protection Act of 2019; and Nigeria’s Data Protection Act of 2023. Many other countries (such as Chad, Malawi, Sierra Leone, and the DRC) have no comprehensive data protection laws or rely on outdated frameworks.
In addition, laws aimed at regulating social media often face criticism for stifling free speech rather than genuinely protecting users. Nigeria’s Social Media Bill (Protection from Internet Falsehood and Manipulation Bill, 2019), Uganda’s Computer Misuse Act (amended 2022), and Ethiopia’s Hate Speech and Disinformation Prevention and Suppression Proclamation (2020) have all been criticized for vague terms and potential misuse.
Governments often find themselves caught between censorship and inaction. Some states resort to internet shutdowns during political crises — as seen recently in Senegal (2023 and 2024), Ethiopia’s Amhara region (2023–2024), Sudan, the DRC, and Chad — disrupting civic life and further complicating mental health support. Meanwhile, others leave social media largely unregulated, exposing users to unchecked harassment, hate speech, and disinformation.
Furthermore, there is a heavy dependence on global tech giants. Major platforms, such as Facebook, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), often fail to enforce their moderation policies adequately in Africa, citing resource constraints or a lack of regional focus. As a result, reports of harmful content frequently go unaddressed, and algorithms can amplify divisive or damaging material. Al Jazeera reported that in 2022, a lawsuit claimed Facebook’s failure to effectively moderate content fueled violence during the conflict in Ethiopia, underscoring the serious real-world impact of unregulated online content.
A call for balanced action
Rising concern over these issues has fueled important conversations around digital well-being and responsible social media use. There is growing pressure on tech companies to introduce features that encourage healthier online habits, such as screen time management tools and content warnings. Reflecting this trend, TikTok recently organized its first-ever African Summit on Digital Wellbeing and Mental Health to promote healthier and more responsible use of social networks while addressing mental health challenges faced by young Africans in today’s increasingly connected world.
As Africa’s digital footprint grows, so does the need for a thoughtful, locally driven approach to mental health and online safety. Strengthening legal frameworks, improving digital literacy, and demanding greater accountability from global tech companies are crucial steps forward. Without these efforts, the promise of social media risks being overshadowed by its dangers, turning what could be a powerful force for connection and empowerment into a source of widespread psychological harm.
Hikmatu Bilali
Niger is launching a major overhaul of its identification system to boost security and improve administrative efficiency. The government will use biometric technology to modernize ID documents and better serve citizens.
On June 27, in Niamey, Niger’s Minister of State for the Interior, General Mohamed Toumba, signed two memorandums of understanding with Wissal Samtali, director of the Libyan firm Al Itissan Al-Jadeed, which specializes in biometric and digital identity solutions. These agreements set up a public-private partnership to revamp Niger’s identity documents.
Signature ce Vendredi 27 juin 2025 à Niamey, de deux mémorandums d'entente entre le Ministre d'État, Ministre de l'Intérieur de la Sécurité Publique et de l'Administration du Territoire, le Général de Division Mohamed Toumba et la Directrice de la société Al Itissan Al-Jadeed… pic.twitter.com/MYAo9k7ib1
— النيجر بالعربية Niger Fr (@NigerAR) June 27, 2025
The first memorandum covers the design, financing, construction, and maintenance of a system to issue electronic biometric passports. These e-passports will be made of polycarbonate and contain secure chips to fight fraud and improve the credibility of Nigerien travel documents internationally.
The second memorandum launches the creation of a new electronic national identity card (e-ID). The card will meet international security standards and enable secure online identification. Officials expect it to speed up administrative processes and lay a foundation for efficient digital governance.
These efforts go beyond simple document upgrades. Niger aims to build a digital ecosystem where secure identification supports services such as online authentication, e-government platforms, banking, social protection programs, and border control.
However, authorities must overcome challenges to make the new e-ID a true tool for development and inclusion. They must ensure fair access across the country, build a reliable and connected identification system, enforce legal protections, and secure citizens’ data—a crucial asset in today’s digital economy.
This partnership marks a key step in Niger’s modernization strategy and highlights the growing importance of intra-African cooperation. Wissal Samtali said the deal sends a strong signal that could encourage more cross-border projects in identification technology across Africa.
Samira Njoya
Through these efforts, TikTok is not just promoting digital safety but also actively contributing to mental health awareness and support across Africa, setting a new standard for global social platforms.
As Africa experiences a boom in digital connectivity and online activity, TikTok held its first-ever African Summit on Digital Wellbeing and Mental Health, bringing together mental health experts, NGOs, content creators, and institutional representatives.
Held in Johannesburg, South Africa, the event, announced June 27, 2025, is part of the platform’s push to promote healthier and more responsible use of social networks while addressing mental health challenges faced by young Africans in today’s increasingly connected world.
With over 150 million (189.3M per Intelpoint data) monthly active users in Africa, TikTok has firmly established itself as a major player on the continent’s digital scene. Recognizing its influence on behavior, especially among teenagers and young adults, the company is stepping up its efforts to raise awareness around mental health issues and create safer online spaces.
The summit aimed to raise awareness about the effects of excessive social media use on mental health, promote healthy and responsible use of TikTok among young people, and create a safer, more supportive digital environment for African youth. Discussions covered topics such as screen time management and digital dependency, cyberbullying and online social pressures, the impact of algorithms on self-image, and ways to promote educational, positive, and culturally relevant content.
Key stakeholders involved included mental health professionals from the World Health Organization’s Fides Network. NGOs such as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI), and Kenya’s Mental360 also took part, along with influential African content creators, including psychologists and doctors serving as new Mental Health Ambassadors.
During the summit, TikTok announced several major commitments. These included strengthening moderation, safety, and parental control tools on the platform, expanding the #MentalHealthMatters campaign across Africa (which has already inspired over 6.5 million posts globally), and launching a new Mental Health Education Fund to support local initiatives. Selected NGOs will receive funding and training to create culturally relevant mental health content and reach wider audiences.
In addition, TikTok is expanding in-app mental health helpline resources across Africa, connecting users directly to local support organizations in countries such as South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Zambia, Namibia, Mauritius, and Malawi. Through these efforts, TikTok aims to empower young Africans to use social media more mindfully while building stronger, safer, and more supportive digital communities across the continent.
As more young people come online in Africa, they face increased exposure to misinformation, cyberbullying, and mental health challenges. The Digital Well-Being Summit and TikTok’s expanded mental health initiatives come at a critical time for Africa’s fast-growing digital ecosystem.
These efforts not only protect vulnerable users but also empower young people to engage online more confidently, supporting broader goals for digital inclusion, youth development, and community resilience across Africa. By taking a leadership role in mental health and online safety, TikTok demonstrates social responsibility and positions itself as a platform that genuinely cares about user well-being.
Hikmatu Bilali
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Côte d’Ivoire appeals for 100 billion FCFA fund ($178M) to support tech startups, calls for private investment.
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Aims to bridge seed funding gap and boost digital transformation.
The Ivorian government is betting on a new strategy to drive the creation and expansion of technology businesses. Ibrahim Kalil Konaté, the Minister of Digital Transition, has formally appealed to private investors to help establish a 100 billion CFA franc fund, approximately $178 million, aimed at supporting the country’s young startups and tech projects.
“Let’s have faith in our youth. They are creators. I call on the private sector to support Côte d’Ivoire’s digital startups. Together, we will build this powerful financial vehicle to accelerate our country’s digital transformation,” Konaté declared during a public address. In an interview with panafrican media Jeune Afrique, he added that the fund seeks to improve access to financing for entrepreneurs often hampered by a lack of seed capital.
The initiative comes amid strong digital momentum in the country. Ivory Coast now hosts nearly 300 active startups and some 10,000 aspiring entrepreneurs in fields such as fintech, edtech, agritech, and healthtech. To structure this ecosystem, authorities adopted a Startup Act in November 2023, which introduced a “Digital Startup” label, fiscal and customs incentives, and a national labeling committee.
Despite these efforts, private funding remains scarce. While some young entrepreneurs already benefit from Startup Boost Capital, a fund launched in 2023 to improve access to financing, many startups remain underfunded and struggle to secure the resources needed to scale.
With this new fund, the government hopes to attract private and institutional capital to complement existing public support and foster the growth of high-potential startups with strong socio-economic impact. The target, as outlined in the Côte d’Ivoire Numérique 2030 strategy, is clear: make digital technology contribute 10% of GDP by 2028.
This article was written in French by Samira Njoya,
Edited in English by Mouka Mezonlin