A group of tech entrepreneurs launched Aftown Music to support African artists. Starting in Ghana, the company recently expanded into Cameroon and is now eyeing further expansion into Francophone Africa.
Aftown Music is a music streaming and download platform developed in 2016 by a Ghanaian startup. It allows artists and podcasters to distribute their content and earn revenue. The platform offers a mobile app available on iOS and Android, where it has already been downloaded more than 5,000 times, according to Play Store data.
Through the app, users can sign up for an account and stream music from various artists on their smartphones or PCs. It has A free, ad-supported version, along with a premium, ad-free subscription. The platform features a wide range of genres, including Makossa, Bikutsi, Afrobeats, Amapiano, Gospel, and Highlife. In addition to streaming, it offers functionalities such as offline mode and a rewards system.
Headquartered in Accra, Ghana, Aftown Music announced on Monday, February 3, 2025, its expansion into Francophone Africa, starting with Cameroon. The move was made in collaboration with Cliq Empire, a local entertainment center and creative agency.
“We are thrilled to be working with Aftown Music to launch their operations in Cameroon. [...] his partnership is a game-changer for Cameroonian artists. It’s about time that local creatives had a platform that prioritizes their growth and ensures they receive fair compensation for their work,” said Prince Michael Enobi, director of Cliq Empire.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Leveraging technology can accelerate Africa’s development, ensuring digital inclusion, economic resilience, and global competitiveness. Nigeria's leadership in connectivity and AI will likely inspire similar initiatives across the continent, positioning Africa as a key player in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved two major initiatives under the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy (FMCIDE) to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation. This was during the council meeting on February 4, which was chaired by President Bola Tinubu.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy Bosun Tijani remarked, “Access to connectivity is something many of us take for granted. Expanding mobile coverage through additional base stations will significantly improve the quality of life for millions of Nigerians in underserved regions.”
The first approval establishes the Nigeria Universal Communication Access Project under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) funding model. This initiative aims to connect over 21 million people across 4,834 rural and underserved communities that currently lack basic mobile communication access. The project complements Project Bridge, Nigeria’s 90,000km Fibre Fund, by expanding connectivity to remote areas, improving digital inclusion, and enhancing economic opportunities for millions.
The second approval supports Nigeria’s ambition to become a global leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) through the creation of the National AI Trust - a pioneering initiative designed to mobilize resources, provide oversight, and guide AI development across key economic sectors.
The National AI Trust, the first of its kind globally, will consist of 10 AI experts, the Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, and the Minister of Science, Innovation & Technology. The Trust will play a strategic role in shaping Nigeria’s AI landscape, future-proofing investments, driving job creation, and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI).
According to DataReportal’s Digital 2024: Nigeria, only 45.5% of Nigerians have internet access, leaving a large segment of the population unconnected. The Nigeria Universal Communication Access Project seeks to close this gap by bringing connectivity to people in underserved communities and fostering digital inclusion and economic growth.
In parallel, the National AI Trust reinforces Nigeria’s ambition to lead in artificial intelligence. According to the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, Nigeria’s AI market is expected to grow to $434.4 million by 2026, with a CAGR of 44.2%, highlighting the sector’s rapid expansion and potential.
These initiatives align with Nigeria's broader digital economy goals, aiming to enhance connectivity, foster innovation, and ensure inclusive growth across the nation. By prioritizing Connectivity Infrastructure and Artificial Intelligence, Nigeria is positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation.
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
Internet and social media shutdowns have become a trend in Africa during times of political or social unrest. These restrictions, often justified as necessary for security, raise serious concerns about freedom of expression and their negative economic consequences.
Residents of several Congolese cities have experienced disruptions to social media access, including TikTok and X, since Saturday, February 1. While no official statement has confirmed the restrictions, many believe they are linked to the tense situation in the country's eastern region and aimed at limiting information flow.
Disruptions have been reported in major cities, including Kinshasa, Goma, Bukavu, and Lubumbashi. Many users have been unable to connect to the platforms, while others have used virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass the restrictions. NetBlocks, an internet monitoring organization, said data indicates a targeted restriction on social media and app download platforms, making VPN access more difficult.
The restrictions coincide with increased tensions in the DRC. The government accuses some of using social media to spread misinformation or incite unrest, while civil society organizations condemn the measures as an attack on freedom of expression.
The DRC joins several other African governments that have imposed internet restrictions during political or security crises. According to the Global Cost of Internet Shutdowns report, published in January by Top10VPN, a UK-based platform, Sub-Saharan Africa lost nearly $1.5 billion in 2024 due to internet shutdowns, social media blockages, and bandwidth throttling. Beyond direct economic losses for digital businesses and freelancers, these restrictions hinder online transactions, disrupt supply chains, and impact key sectors like e-commerce and digital services.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
He began his entrepreneurial journey in 2019 while still a student, developing technological solutions to accelerate digital transformation in Africa.
Cirus Sumika, a Ugandan tech entrepreneur, is the founder and CEO of Sumic IT Solutions, a startup dedicated to narrowing Africa’s digital divide by providing sustainable technology solutions.
Founded in 2019, Sumic IT Solutions specializes in building professional websites for businesses, NGOs, hotels, and educational institutions, among others. The company also develops mobile applications, handling the entire process from ideation to delivery while offering ongoing support. Additionally, it provides digital marketing services, IT consulting, and training in new technologies.
"Our core mission is to facilitate the growth and self-sufficiency of businesses by providing them with affordable, standard, and sustainable technologies. We achieve this through a range of services including Website Design & Development, Domain Name Registration & Hosting, Mobile Application Development, Digital Marketing, IT Trainings, and IT Consulting," the startup states.
Sumic IT Solutions operates under Sumic Group, founded by Sumika, which also launched Sumic Online, a platform that facilitates buying and selling various products and services.
Sumika holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Makerere University, Uganda, which he earned in 2021. In 2020, he interned as an accountant at KPMG East Africa. Between 2023 and 2024, he was a partner at Black Leaders Worldwide, a business network for Black professionals in the U.S. and the U.K.
His achievements include winning the Startup of the Year in Technology award at the 2022 Startup Uganda Awards. In 2023, Sumic IT Solutions received the Global Recognition Award. Most recently, in 2024, Sumika was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the Private Sector Foundation Uganda, the country’s top private sector body.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
A fintech expert with extensive experience in sub-Saharan Africa, he has played a key role in the development of Onafriq (formerly MFS Africa) across the continent. He designs innovative financial solutions tailored to the needs of the African market.
Yogo Dubois (photo) is a Congolese entrepreneur specializing in financial technology. He is the founder and CEO of Rego, a fintech startup that is revolutionizing access to financial services in sub-Saharan Africa.
Founded in 2024, Rego is a pioneering company that facilitates digital identification and credit assessment. Its platform offers secure, scalable, and inclusive solutions, enabling businesses and individuals to access financial services more easily.
By integrating advanced technologies such as encryption, biometric authentication, and alternative data analysis, Rego ensures optimal security and promotes financial autonomy. From identity verification to credit profiling, it bridges the gap between innovation and financial inclusion.
Yogo Dubois is the president of the DRC Fintech Association, an organization dedicated to the development of the financial technology sector in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). He sits on the board of Africa Fintech Network, a platform bringing together fintech leaders across Africa, as well as on the board of Onafriq in the DRC, a pan-African fintech, where he is also a shareholder.
A graduate of the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management in Germany, he earned a master’s degree in marketing in 2017, followed by a master’s in business management and administration in 2019. In 2024, he obtained a certification as a commercial banking and credit analyst from the Corporate Finance Institute.
His career began in 2002 at Airtel DRC, where he successively held positions as customer service representative and product manager. In 2008, he became regional head of business development at InTarget Mobile Advertising, a company specializing in advertising and mobile marketing in Africa. In 2016, he joined Onafriq as commercial director for Southern and East Africa.
In 2017, Yogo Dubois joined the South African company Siyavula Education, specializing in educational technology. In 2020, he became regional director of business development for sub-Saharan Africa at Mondia Group, a mobile commerce company.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
The country is banking on digital transformation to fuel its socioeconomic development. The government is stepping up initiatives to harness digital technology to improve access to services, enhance transparency, and drive innovation.
Senegal launched a digital platform last week for obtaining the National Identification Number for Enterprises and Associations (NINEA). Inaugurated by Economy Minister Abdourahmane Sarr, the initiative aims to streamline and expedite business and association registration.
The launch is part of Senegal's broader "New Technological Deal" digital transformation strategy, which seeks to establish the country as a regional innovation leader. The government is prioritizing the digitization of public and private services to improve administrative efficiency, digital inclusion, and transparency.
"NINEA registration covers businesses operating in Senegal, nationally or internationally recognized associations, trade unions, central public administrations, public institutions, local authorities, political parties, occasional operators, landowners, NGOs, and more," the National Agency for Statistics and Demography (ANSD) said in its third-quarter 2023 report.
The platform's success, however, hinges on internet access. DataReportal reports Senegal had 10.79 million internet subscribers, representing a 60% penetration rate.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Launched by an Egyptian tech entrepreneur, the solution aims to be a flexible and accessible tool to help young Arabs access diverse training programs, allowing them to learn at their own pace, regardless of their skill level.
EYouth is an EdTech platform developed by an Egyptian startup, offering digital skills training programs tailored for youth, professionals, and entrepreneurs seeking to enhance their expertise.
The platform features a mobile app, available on iOS and Android, which has already been downloaded over a thousand times, according to Play Store data. Users can create an account and access a variety of courses, including content creation, graphic design, digital marketing, and data analysis.
EYouth also develops programs on financial education in Egypt, digital literacy training, awareness campaigns on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and stock market knowledge. Beyond short-term courses, the startup has launched tech scholarship programs, enabling young Arabs to learn the fundamentals of programming and artificial intelligence (AI). The goal is to enhance their employability and understanding of global trends, better preparing them for the job market.
Founded in 2016 by Mostafa Abdel Latif, the startup recently secured $6 million in funding to expand its training offerings, integrate advanced educational technologies, and reach a wider audience across Egypt and the MENA region (North Africa and the Middle East).
"To date, we have developed the skills of over three million young people. Through this partnership, we aim to accelerate and empower an additional one million youth to unlock their potential and drive innovation across Africa and the Middle East," said Mostafa Abdel Latif, founder of EYouth.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Senegal's "New Technological Deal" digital strategy sets key objectives for 2034, with the goal of becoming a leading tech hub in Africa. The country has secured support from high-profile strategic partners to achieve this ambition.
Christel Heydemann (photo, left), CEO of French telecom group Orange, met with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye last Thursday and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Senegal’s “New Technological Deal.” This initiative aims to modernize digital infrastructure and improve connectivity nationwide.
“At Orange, we firmly believe that technology should be a force for empowerment and progress for all. Alongside Groupe Sonatel [Orange’s Senegalese subsidiary], we will continue investing to turn this ambition into reality,” Heydemann stated.
The meeting aligns with Senegal’s goal to accelerate its digital transition by working with key players in the tech industry. As one of the largest telecom operators in the country, Orange is a strategic partner capable of supporting the government’s efforts in this transformation.
According to data from the Regulatory Authority for Telecommunications and Posts (ARTP), Orange leads the Senegalese telecom market with 12.8 million subscribers as of March 31, 2024, representing 56.02% market share. It is followed by Free (24%), Expresso (16.6%), Promobile (3%), and Hayo (0.1%).
Orange’s commitment could translate into investments in digital infrastructure, expanding access to digital services and fostering innovation. This collaboration could also pave the way for new projects to boost Senegal’s digital economy. Notably, Senegal’s mobile internet penetration rate stood at 99.06% as of March 31, 2024, according to ARTP data.
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
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Nigeria has launched the DeepTech_Ready Upskilling Program to train 20,000 young people in AI and Data Science, equipping them for high-demand tech roles, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital economy announced on January 31.
The initiative, led by the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, Data Science Nigeria, and Google, is part of a N2.8 billion grant under Google’s $5.8 million investment in Africa’s digital transformation.
The six-month program combines self-paced learning, project-based training, and job readiness support to bridge Nigeria’s digital skills gap. This initiative strengthens the country’s tech workforce, attracts investment, and advances its role in AI innovation across Africa.
As industries worldwide embrace artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and advanced analytics, Africa is positioning itself at the forefront of this revolution. In the energy sector, digital technologies are becoming essential for optimizing production, reducing costs, and enhancing efficiency.
Global technology company SLB announced the launch of its Africa Performance Center in Luanda, Angola, on January 28. The event marks a major milestone in advancing digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and energy sector innovation across Africa. The 3,200-square-foot facility will serve as a collaborative hub for industry stakeholders, offering cutting-edge solutions in oil and gas, new energy, and digital technologies.
Miguel Baptista, SLB’s Managing Director for Angola, Central, and East Africa highlighted the importance of the center saying: "With this Performance Center, we aim to work closely with customers, drawing on our global expertise, diverse technology portfolio, and digital workflows to provide localized solutions."
The Africa Performance Center will drive capacity building, skills development, and local talent empowerment, ensuring industry solutions are developed within Angola to foster sustainable economic growth. AI-powered digital workflows, advanced analytics, and automation will enhance efficiency, sustainability, and operational performance.
This initiative aligns with Angola’s broader vision for economic diversification and digital transformation. According to the World Economic Forum, digital transformation in the oil and gas sector could unlock approximately $1.6 trillion in value, optimizing energy production, reducing costs, and increasing efficiency.
SLB’s investment reinforces the role of AI-driven solutions in sustaining Angola’s oil output, improving productivity, and supporting economic stability. By equipping local professionals with in-demand digital skills, the center will create job opportunities and strengthen Africa’s position in the evolving global energy landscape.
Hikmatu Bilali
As a computer scientist and entrepreneur, Ousseynou Diop leverages innovation to advance education and entrepreneurship, driving Africa into the global digital economy.
Ousseynou Diop (photo) is a Senegalese software developer and tech entrepreneur. He is the founder and CEO of Xarala, a startup specializing in technology education.
The name Xarala, which means “technology” in Wolof, reflects the platform’s mission: to provide Africans with access to quality education to help them unlock their full potential. Founded in 2018, Xarala offers hands-on and accessible training in key digital fields, including software development, digital marketing, design, and data analysis.
The startup provides a mobile app for self-paced learning, along with personalized mentorship and certifications upon course completion. Xarala allows learners to study in their preferred language, making education more inclusive and accessible.
Alongside his work at Xarala, Ousseynou Diop serves as Software Technical Lead at ORYA TECHNOLOGIES, a financial services provider in Senegal. His tech journey began in 2016 as a freelance web developer. From 2017 to 2022, he was Vice President of the Programming Commission at Daara-IT, a Senegalese community of young tech enthusiasts.
Diop later joined OuiCarry, a logistics company, as a full-stack developer, before moving to Digital.in in 2020, where he worked on AI-driven recruitment solutions. From 2022 to 2023, he was a full-stack developer at Gemography, a platform connecting software engineers and data specialists with global tech companies.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
He helps businesses develop innovative products by building a community of information and communication technology (ICT) experts.
Thierry Kientega (photo) is a telecommunications engineer and tech entrepreneur from Burkina Faso. He is the founder and CEO of OUIcoding, a consulting firm specializing in information technology.
Founded in 2018, OUIcoding specializes in digital transformation, offering custom development solutions, NoCode services, and data and artificial intelligence-based tools. The company focuses on process automation and rapid application development. It also identifies, vets, and connects coders, designers, and engineers from Africa and emerging markets with businesses across the continent.
The startup has built a community of talents, where members can train, learn, share knowledge, and innovate. Its ambition is to create an ecosystem conducive to innovation and collaboration. Today, this community includes over 360 experts and has supported more than 158 projects, involving 46 companies.
Thierry Kientega holds a telecommunications engineering degree obtained in 2008 from the École Supérieure d’Ingénieurs de Rennes in France. He also earned a PhD in telecommunications in 2011 from the École Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées in France.
His career began in 2007 at France Télécom (which became Orange in 2013) as a telecommunications engineer. In 2011, he joined the international consulting firm Leyton as a senior consultant, helping companies identify financial levers to accelerate growth and drive sustainable progress. In 2014, he became director of the commerce division at CFAO France, a company specializing in international trade.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji