• Egypt is investing $59 billion to build a futuristic smart city 45 km east of Cairo as part of its Vision 2030 strategy.
• The city will feature AI, IoT, connected transport, automated public infrastructure, and intelligent surveillance
Egypt is channeling $59 billion into the development of a futuristic smart city, a flagship project under its Vision 2030 strategy. This high-tech megacity, currently under construction 45 kilometers (about 28 miles) east of Cairo, is intended to ease congestion in the capital and establish Egypt as a frontrunner in digital urban planning across Africa.
Conceived as a regional technology hub, the new administrative capital will integrate cutting-edge digital solutions, encompassing artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), automated management of public utilities, interconnected transportation networks, and intelligent surveillance systems. The initial phase, requiring an investment of $8.4 billion alone, is largely complete, exceeding 70% progress. Subsequent phases are projected to continue until 2027, with potential adjustments based on economic developments.
This ambitious megaproject aligns with a rapidly expanding global trend. Worldwide, the smart city market is experiencing significant growth. Valued at $1.36 trillion in 2024, it is forecast to reach $3.84 trillion by 2029, demonstrating an average annual growth rate of 23.21%, according to data from Mordor Intelligence.
While Africa currently constitutes a modest portion of this global market, the continent is progressively emerging as a significant player. Countries such as Egypt, Morocco, Rwanda, Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa are prioritizing smart urban initiatives to tackle urban population growth, governance challenges, transportation issues, and sustainability imperatives.
In Egypt's case, this smart city is designed to accommodate 6.5 million residents. It will house key government functions, including headquarters and ministries, foreign embassies, and centers for digital innovation. Buildings throughout the city will be equipped with smart sensors to optimize energy and water consumption, enhance security, and manage mobility efficiently.
Despite criticism concerning investment priorities in a nation grappling with high inflation and increasing public debt, Egyptian authorities maintain a long-term perspective. They are banking on the project's potential to generate economic benefits, create skilled employment opportunities, and drive the digital transformation of government administration as catalysts for sustainable progress.
Samira Njoya
Egyptian cybersecurity startup THE WHITEGUARD has secured a six-figure pre-seed investment, led by Den VC, to scale its AI-driven, regulation-ready cybersecurity solutions across Egypt, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA).
The funding reflects strong investor confidence in the startup’s vision of using intelligent, adaptable tools to address rising cyber threats and regulatory demands.
The funds will support product development, team growth, and market expansion, as THE WHITEGUARD positions itself to meet the region’s growing need for secure and compliant digital infrastructure.
At the head of an innovation center based in Mogadishu, he strives to build a robust technological ecosystem in Somalia. Balancing entrepreneurship and expertise in public policy, he embodies a new generation of change-makers.
Abdihakim Ainte (photo), a Somali-born tech entrepreneur, researcher, and analyst, is the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of iRise Hub, a center dedicated to fostering innovation and technology.
Established in 2016 in Mogadishu, Somalia's capital, iRise Hub aims to cultivate a local ecosystem capable of attracting international investment. The center targets entrepreneurs, developers, investors, technicians, innovators, and the broader Somali startup ecosystem, providing them with a collaborative workspace to share ideas and advance their projects.
iRise Hub offers training in design thinking, a user-centered innovation methodology, and develops customized programs to facilitate startups' swift entry into the market. Currently, the iRise Hub community encompasses over 40,000 members and 80 mentors. The center has implemented more than 20 programs, organized over 350 events, and supported over 3,000 startups to date.
Prior to launching iRise Hub, Ainte founded TransLink Advisory in 2014, a consulting firm specializing in security, socio-economic development, and institutional strengthening.
Ainte holds a bachelor's degree in political science and government, earned in 2017 from Linnéuniversitetet, a Swedish university. He also holds a master's degree in public policy analysis from the University of Bristol in England, which he obtained in 2020.
His professional journey commenced in 2011 at the Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS), where he served as a researcher focusing on issues related to Somalia. In 2014, he became the director of the Somali Forum for Progress, an independent think tank uniting researchers, intellectuals, academics, policymakers, and journalists to contribute to the country's development.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Communication barriers frequently limit deaf individuals' access to essential services. In Ghana, three tech entrepreneurs have introduced technological innovations to address this.
DeafCanTalk is a mobile application developed by a Ghanaian startup. It uses AI to facilitate real-time communication between deaf and hearing people. The startup was founded in 2021 by Ike Agyei Mensah, Bejal Joshi, and Victor Wealth-Adankai.
"In an inclusive classroom, for example, the deaf person needs an assistive tool to communicate and take notes while attending lectures. We leverage AI to convert the spoken words of the lecture into a recorded text that is saved for the deaf person, who can look at it later on to create proper notes, as well," explained Ike Agyei Mensah.
The application is currently available exclusively on the Android platform, where it has garnered over a hundred downloads according to the Play Store. DeafCanTalk incorporates a range of features, including note-taking capabilities, sign language courses, assistive communication technology, a dedicated customer support service called "Deaf-Care," telemedicine solutions, and inclusive employment programs. These features collectively aim to enhance the social inclusion of deaf individuals and those with speech disorders.
"We also use AI to generate QR codes that connect deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals to interpreters on the go and are currently working on a speech-to-sign language and sign language-to-speech model using AI," added Ike Agyei Mensah.
Since its launch, the startup reports a user base of 10,000 individuals across the African continent. By merging technology with a commitment to social impact, the application signifies a substantial stride towards a more inclusive society, where communication serves not as a barrier but as a connection between people.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
A visionary entrepreneur, she designs practical tools that connect African talent with relevant opportunities. Her work champions an Africa that leverages its own expertise for development.
Raodath Aminou (photo), a Beninese technology entrepreneur and strategy consultant specializing in private sector development, has launched Entourage, a startup established in 2024 to streamline access to African expertise.
This digital platform compiles a roster of specialists across diverse fields on the continent. It provides professionals and entrepreneurs with the opportunity to schedule private video consultations with their chosen experts, gaining personalized advice to accelerate their careers, expand their businesses, or enhance their skill sets.
"Whether you're part of the African diaspora seeking promising remote opportunities, or a professional based in Africa aiming to fast-track your growth, Entourage is here to furnish you with high-caliber expert guidance, a robust network, and the essential support to achieve your objectives with confidence," the company's website states.
Prior to founding Entourage, Aminou co-founded OptiMiam in 2014, an application designed to combat food waste by linking consumers and retailers to sell surplus products before they expired. She served as CEO of OptiMiam until 2017.
Her academic background includes a bachelor's degree in information systems management from the University of Dayton in the United States, earned in 2010. In 2011, she obtained an engineering degree in information systems management from the Institut Supérieur d'Électronique de Paris (ISEP). In 2014, she earned another engineering degree in innovation management and digital economy from the École Polytechnique in France.
Between 2017 and 2019, Aminou served as an ambassador for the French Tech Diversity program, an initiative focused on promoting social diversity within France's startup ecosystem. Concurrently, she held a position on the board of directors of the Invivo Foundation, an endowment fund dedicated to agricultural and food innovation. She also spearheaded entrepreneurship and innovation programs at Sèmè City, an innovation hub located in Benin.
Throughout her career, Aminou has garnered numerous accolades. In 2014, OptiMiam won the E-food competition organized by Vitagora and Premice, prominent players in France's agri-food innovation sector. She also received the Gold Palm of e-commerce, awarded by the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry. In 2015, she won the Digital Service Award as well as the Special Consumer Award at the Food Distribution Innovation Forum. Additionally, she was awarded the PEPITE Prize by the French Ministry of Research and Higher Education.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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Orange Central Africa launched 4G mobile technology on May 15, following years of investment to modernize infrastructure and meet regulatory requirements.
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The rollout aims to strengthen Orange's market position in a digitally underdeveloped but high-potential market, offering faster speeds for video calls, remote work, and online services.
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The 4G network is expected to support digital transformation, benefiting SMEs, professionals, and startups, while fostering innovation in education, healthcare, and mobile finance.
Orange's Central African Republic subsidiary officially rolled out its fourth-generation (4G) mobile technology on Thursday, May 15, marking a significant step for the telecom operator as it aims to solidify its position in a market with substantial untapped digital potential.
"This launch is the culmination of several years of investments, encompassing technical, human, and regulatory efforts. It represents a major milestone for advancing digital technology in our cherished nation," stated Max Francisco, General Manager of Orange Central Africa.
Faced with increasing strain on its 3G network, the Central African arm of the French telecommunications group initiated a series of investments in 2021 to upgrade its infrastructure and meet regulatory requirements. The new 4G service is currently operational in Bangui, Bouar, Berbérati, and Bossangoa, with plans to extend coverage to Bambari in the coming months.
Offering speeds up to ten times faster than 3G, 4G provides an enhanced experience for activities such as video conferencing, remote work, online gaming, and cloud-based services. To facilitate this transition, Orange has also launched a complimentary migration campaign to 4G-compatible SIM cards and enhanced its data packages.
The introduction of 4G is part of a public-private partnership agreement signed in November 2024 between Orange and the Central African government, through the Ministry of Digital Economy. This agreement is designed to accelerate the deployment of high-speed internet coverage nationwide, supporting the country's broader digital transformation agenda.
Market Poised for Expansion
The Central African Republic's telecommunications market is currently shared among Orange, Moov Africa, and Telecel. According to DataReportal's 2024 figures, the country has 2.1 million mobile phone subscribers and 839,000 internet users within an estimated population of 5.4 million. With an internet penetration rate of 15.5%, the nation presents a significant opportunity for growth in digital services.
In this environment, Orange views the deployment of 4G as a strategic tool to broaden its service offerings, attract new customer segments such as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), students, and professionals, and foster the growth of digital adoption in a country actively pursuing modernization.
Furthermore, 4G has the potential to stimulate the development of new services in sectors like education, healthcare, mobile finance, and e-governance. It also presents a valuable opportunity for young entrepreneurs and local start-ups to create digital solutions tailored to the specific needs of the country.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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Ghanaian Minister Samuel Nartey George and Indian Ambassador Shri Manish Gupta met to explore partnerships in digital payments, mobile banking, and financial inclusion.
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Discussions also focused on developing Ghana as a coding hub in Africa and strengthening digital infrastructure to support innovation.
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Talks are still in the early stages, with no formal agreements signed, but both parties expressed commitment to deepening collaboration.
The Ghanaian government intends to deepen its collaboration with India in the technology sector, a key topic during a meeting on Thursday between Ghana's Minister of Communication, Digital Technologies, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George (photo, center), and India's Ambassador to Ghana, Shri Manish Gupta (photo, left).
During their discussions, both sides explored potential partnerships in areas such as digital payments, mobile banking, and financial inclusion. They also discussed the development of Ghana's tech ecosystem, with the aspiration of positioning the country as a coding hub in Africa. Finally, the talks centered on strengthening digital infrastructure to better support innovation and entrepreneurship.
This meeting is part of the Ghanaian government's broader international cooperation efforts aimed at digital transformation, which it views as a crucial driver for socioeconomic development. In recent weeks, Ghana has notably strengthened ties with Germany, Italy, Turkey, Israel, and Denmark. This is in addition to collaborations with entities and companies such as fiber optic firm CSquared, Deloitte, the African Regional Satellite Communication Organization (RASCOM), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and Meta.
Currently, Ghana ranks 108th out of 193 countries on the United Nations e-Government Development Index, with a score of 0.6317. This is significantly higher than the African average of 0.4247 but slightly below the global average of 0.6382. India, in comparison, ranks 97th with a score of 0.6678.
Exchanges between Ghana and India are still in the initial stages. Both parties have committed to further exploring avenues for cooperation and identifying specific projects for implementation. However, no formal agreements have been signed or announced at this time, indicating that future developments will be necessary to provide more definitive insights into the prospects and potential impact of this collaboration.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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Gabon signed a strategic partnership with Visa to enhance financial inclusion.
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The initiative includes distributing virtual bank cards to underserved populations, especially in rural and informal areas, and promoting electronic payments within public administration.
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The collaboration aims to bridge the gap between Mobile Money usage and the lower banking rate by integrating digital financial solutions into public services.
Gabon's Ministry of Digital Economy, Digitalization, and Innovation announced Thursday a strategic partnership with Visa, the U.S. electronic payments firm, on the sidelines of the Africa CEO Forum 2025 in Abidjan. The initiative aims to strengthen financial inclusion through digital means.
The agreement notably includes the distribution of virtual bank cards targeted at populations currently underserved or inadequately served by traditional banking networks, particularly in rural and informal sectors. The partnership also seeks to accelerate the adoption of electronic payments within the public administration, with the goals of modernization, increased transparency, and improved efficiency of state services.
This collaboration aligns with the Gabonese authorities' ambition to democratize access to financial services through innovative and tailored digital solutions. According to the World Bank, Gabon's financial inclusion rate, including Mobile Money services, reached 66.09% in 2021. However, the overall banking rate, encompassing microfinance institutions, remained limited at 27.55% in 2021, compared to a reported 30% in 2024.
This partnership with Visa could help bridge this disparity by facilitating access to digital financial services for a wider segment of the population. By integrating digital payment solutions into public services and expanding access to modern financial tools, Gabon reaffirms its commitment to modernizing its economy and fostering more inclusive growth.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Access to accurate, timely, and actionable market data is critical for making sound investment decisions. Innovations like Data Direct are critical to deepening market participation, improving investor confidence, and aligning the ZSE with global best practices in capital market infrastructure.
The Zimbabwe Stock Exchange Limited (ZSE) has launched Data Direct, an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled market data platform designed to transform how investors access and engage with financial market information. The platform, announced May 14 in a release by ZSE, is aimed at improving transparency, accessibility, and decision-making for stakeholders across Zimbabwe’s capital markets.
The launch of Data Direct is part of our digital transformation strategy to ensure our stakeholders have easy access to market data, said ZSE in the release.
Data Direct combines cutting-edge AI technology with a user-friendly interface to provide investors with real-time access to comprehensive market data from both the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) and the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX). The platform offers a suite of features, including end-of-day reports, historical data, and viewing rights to live trading via a View-Only Terminal (VOT).
According to the ZSE, the introduction of AI-generated insights on the platform is a game-changer for investors. The advanced AI capabilities enable precise, timely, and actionable market analysis, giving users a competitive edge by going beyond conventional reporting and data interpretation. This empowers traders, analysts, and institutions to make more informed investment decisions based on predictive trends and tailored insights.
Following a successful soft launch in April 2025, which garnered positive feedback from early users, the ZSE refined the platform to enhance its functionality and user experience. The platform is available through a dedicated web portal and is connected to Paynow, allowing for seamless payment and subscription using a variety of channels.
Transparency and timely access to data are crucial for building trust in any financial system. One of the longstanding challenges in African capital markets is the perception of low transparency and limited access to quality data. Tools like Data Direct are vital in reversing that narrative. By providing customizable data, historical records, and live market views, the platform promotes greater accountability, trust, and evidence-based decision-making.
The move aligns with ZSE’s digital transformation strategy to enhance market accessibility and efficiency.
Hikmatu Bilali
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Huawei introduced digital solutions to tackle exploration inefficiency, pipeline security issues, and reliance on foreign data systems.
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Key innovations include an AI-based offshore exploration tool and 3D security platform.
Chinese technology firm Huawei has launched a suite of digital solutions aimed at bolstering the transformation of Nigeria's oil and gas sector. The announcement occurred in Lagos during the Oil and Gas Forum, a key event at Huawei Nigeria Day 2025, held last week.
These technological offerings are designed to tackle three significant challenges hindering the industry's efficiency: cumbersome exploration processes, persistent vulnerabilities in pipeline security, and a reliance on foreign systems for data management, which compromises digital sovereignty.
Among the showcased innovations is an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven offshore exploration solution. This technology promises to slash seismic data processing time from 21 days to a mere 72 hours, while achieving an impressive 92% accuracy rate. Pilot testing in the OML 130 block of the Niger Delta reportedly resulted in a 35% reduction in exploration costs. Huawei also presented a sophisticated three-dimensional security platform integrating fiber optic sensors and video analytics. This solution has purportedly reduced pipeline leaks by 60% and dramatically cut incident response time from 45 minutes to just 8 minutes.
Addressing the critical issue of digital sovereignty, Huawei introduced a localized cloud infrastructure that adheres to Nigerian regulations concerning strategic data. Information pertaining to oil and gas operations will now be stored within Nigeria, enhancing security and ensuring real-time accessibility.
This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader 2050 energy transition strategy, which seeks to strengthen domestic technical capabilities, ensure energy security, and modernize a vital sector of the national economy.
Oil and Gas: A Cornerstone of Nigeria's Economy
The oil and gas sector forms the bedrock of Nigeria's economy, generating over 90% of the nation's export revenue and approximately half of the government's income. As Africa's leading crude oil producer, Nigeria also holds the continent's largest proven natural gas reserves.
However, the sector grapples with long-standing structural challenges, including outdated infrastructure, insufficient investment in innovation, pipeline sabotage, and a dependency on foreign technology. By providing advanced technological solutions, Huawei aims to contribute to a more efficient utilization of national resources and improved governance within the sector.
To further this goal, the Chinese conglomerate intends to double incentives for its local partners and train more than 1,000 Nigerian professionals in energy technologies by the end of 2025. The objective is to cultivate a local ecosystem capable of accelerating the digital transition of Nigeria’s energy industry.
For Huawei, this strategic move aims to position Nigeria as a regional hub for energy innovation, leveraging technology to optimize productivity, secure critical infrastructure, and bolster data sovereignty.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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He rethinks the customer experience with a bold digital solution. Driven by a practical and connected vision, he transforms waiting habits into a smooth and intelligent journey.
Maged Negm, an Egyptian tech entrepreneur with a background in electronics engineering and marketing, is the co-founder and chief executive officer of Qme, a startup providing an intelligent virtual queue solution.
Founded in 2022, Qme aims to alleviate waiting times in businesses, institutions, and organizations. This digital solution allows customers to join a queue remotely without the need for immediate physical presence. Using their smartphones, customers can select a service provider or partner, choose a service, locate the most convenient branch, and obtain a virtual ticket with just a few taps.
The platform, driven by artificial intelligence, automatically assigns tickets based on the customers' location and the number of people at various branches, with the goal of minimizing waiting times. Users also receive personalized alerts regarding their position and the queue status, enhancing service management efficiency and improving the overall customer experience.
Negm earned a bachelor's degree in electronics and communication engineering in 2008 from the Modern Sciences and Arts University in Egypt. In the following year, he joined Fawry Banking and Payment Technology Services as a business development specialist.
In December 2009, Negm moved to Orange Egypt. He initially worked within the pre-sales team for business solutions before advancing to the role of senior product marketing supervisor. From 2018 to 2021, he served as product marketing manager at Cequens, a provider of omnichannel communication solutions.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
She is committed to providing tailored support for mental health, particularly for people with neurodevelopmental disorders. Her innovative approach has earned her several awards.
Abid Khouloud, a Tunisian entrepreneur and ardent mental health advocate, is the co-founder and chief executive officer of AUZY Mental Health, a startup leveraging artificial intelligence to transform mental healthcare.
Founded in 2021, AUZY Mental Health is a medical technology startup providing a comprehensive medico-psycho-social support platform. This platform offers tailored care for children with neurological development disorders, encompassing information, detection, diagnosis, treatment, and support services.
AUZY aims to provide access to expert therapists and facilitate early screening. The company's core mission is to empower every child to become an active member of society and benefit from all means of decent living. We work to ensure guidance, coordination, and an early intervention process for children with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Prior to establishing AUZY, Khouloud co-founded Elfallega in 2020, a company specializing in outdoor activities for individuals and professionals. She served as the communications manager there until 2023.
Khouloud earned a computer engineering degree in 2023 from the Higher Institute of Computer Science and Communication Technologies (ISITCom) in Tunisia. She also holds a master’s degree in systems, services, and applications in the Internet of Things from the National School of Engineers of Sousse, obtained in 2020.
Her professional journey began in 2020 as a full-stack engineer for the Rassemblement des ingénieurs francophones (RIF) in France. In 2022, she joined Bigweb Agency, a digital marketing firm, where she was responsible for the program management office.
Khouloud is a recipient of the Orange Social Venture Prize in Africa and the Middle East (POESAM) 2024 in Tunisia. Her startup also secured third place in the Tunisia E-Health Valley competition, which recognizes companies offering digital solutions for the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness sectors.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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Delegations from Zambia and Zimbabwe visited the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to study its practices, aiming to replicate Nigeria's successful model.
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Key focus areas included the public-private partnership model, human capital development, policy creation, and public awareness, as highlighted by NDPC Commissioner Vincent Olatunji.
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The visit follows a growing need for robust data protection amid digital transformation, as noted by Yellow Card, while challenges persist in adapting the model to differing local contexts.
Zambia and Zimbabwe are looking to Nigeria for guidance in personal data protection, with separate delegations from the two Southern African nations making a working visit this week to the headquarters of the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC). The meetings took place on the sidelines of the General Assembly of the African Network of Personal Data Protection Authorities (RAPDP) held in Abuja, Nigeria.
"The purpose of the visit was for the delegations to understudy the day-to-day operations of the NDPC, with a view to replicating best practices in their respective countries," the NDPC said in a statement released on Wednesday, May 14.
Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the NDPC, provided the visiting delegations with an overview of the development of data protection in Nigeria. He emphasized that the Commission has developed a strategic roadmap that has served as its guide since the enactment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023. Olatunji highlighted the public-private partnership model as a key driver of the institution's success. Discussions also covered crucial areas such as human capital development, public awareness campaigns, policy formulation, and collaborative strategies.
This benchmarking visit occurs against a backdrop of rapid digital transformation and the widespread use of electronic communication services. "As more African countries go digital, protecting personal data and ensuring privacy has become a critical concern. People, businesses, and governments are increasingly aware of the need to safeguard personal information as the world becomes more interconnected," noted the cryptocurrency exchange platform Yellow Card in its 2025 report, "The State of Data Protection Laws in Africa."
This knowledge exchange could empower the data protection authorities of Zambia and Zimbabwe to enhance their capacity to fully execute their responsibilities, which, according to Yellow Card, include enforcing legislation, investigating breaches, and assisting businesses and citizens in adopting best practices. For instance, a joint 38-month investigation by Nigeria's Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the NDPC found that WhatsApp had violated Nigerian data protection and competition laws, resulting in a $220 million fine imposed on its parent company, Meta, in July 2024.
However, replicating the Nigerian model in Zambia and Zimbabwe could present challenges due to differing national contexts. Furthermore, Yellow Card points out that the effectiveness of data protection authorities across the African continent varies due to disparities in resources, expertise, and political commitment.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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The U.S. announced over $550 million in trade agreements with Côte d’Ivoire, focusing on energy, digital transition, infrastructure, security, housing, and technology.
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Key partnerships include George Mason University, Cybastion, and the Ivorian Ministry of Digital Economy to train youth in AI and cybersecurity, alongside Cybastion’s ongoing projects in West Africa.
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These initiatives aim to strengthen Côte d’Ivoire’s digital sovereignty, secure critical infrastructures, and develop local digital talent.
The United States is deepening its engagement in Côte d’Ivoire's digital transformation, with a senior State Department official announcing and witnessing the signing of over $550 million in trade agreements during a recent visit to Abidjan. Troy Fitrell,acting Assistant Secretary for African Affairs , participated in key economic meetings where the deals spanned crucial sectors including energy, digital transition, infrastructure, security, housing, and technology.
A significant focus of the U.S. commitment lies in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector. Several initiatives were spotlighted, notably a memorandum of understanding between George Mason University, U.S. firm Cybastion, and the Ivorian Ministry of Digital Economy. This collaboration aims to cultivate young talent in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, providing Ivorian youth with the skills necessary to navigate the demands of the digital economy.
Adding to this momentum, Cybastion, an American company, has pledged to develop projects across several West African nations, with a particular emphasis on cybersecurity, e-government solutions, connectivity enhancement, and technology-focused training programs.
This fresh wave of commitment builds upon existing cooperation between Côte d’Ivoire and Cybastion. In 2023, the cybersecurity firm inked an agreement with Ivorian authorities for the development of a national data center and a digital administrative city. Further bolstering digital skills, a partnership with Cisco was launched in 2024 to train 3,000 women in various digital competencies.
The overarching ambition of these initiatives is to foster a more robust regional digital ecosystem. For Côte d’Ivoire, the key challenge lies in effectively leveraging these partnerships to fortify its digital sovereignty, establish secure critical infrastructure, and cultivate a substantial pool of skilled individuals capable of meeting the expanding needs of the digital sector, moving beyond isolated pilot programs.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji