In Africa, many people are unable to access essential rights like education, healthcare, and social protection due to low birth registration rates. New technologies offer a promising solution to this challenge.
The World Bank, through its West Africa Unique Identification for Regional Integration and Inclusion (WURI) Project, has officially handed over 2,050 mobile terminals to Benin's National Agency for Personal Identification (ANIP). This initiative aims to enhance the electronic registration of civil status events, including births, marriages, and deaths, ensuring better social inclusion and improved tracking of these events within the country.
"These 2,050 terminals will significantly strengthen our capacity to modernize civil registration in Benin and ensure that every child is automatically registered in the National Register of Physical Persons (RNPP) at birth. These devices will also improve the reliability of collected data, which will be directly integrated into our national databases," stated Aristide Guy Adjinacou Gnahoui, Director General of ANIP.
This project is part of the WURI initiative, which spans West Africa and aims to enhance inclusion through a reliable and universal identification system. Specifically, the initiative targets identifying 100 million individuals across West Africa by 2028, representing 27% of the ECOWAS population. This effort comes as the continent continues to face identification challenges. According to World Bank data from 2017, nearly 40% of births go unregistered in Sub-Saharan Africa, making it difficult for children to access essential services.
By distributing these terminals, the WURI-Benin project addresses an urgent need, making registration more accessible, particularly in rural areas and across public and private healthcare facilities nationwide. The goal is to facilitate the systematic declaration of births and improve the reliability of civil status data to better plan public policies and strengthen social services.
E-government services are rapidly expanding across the continent, with governments striving to improve user access. Tech entrepreneurs also see this as a growing opportunity.
Alma.cd is an e-governance solution developed by a Congolese startup, offering users the ability to order administrative documents online and receive them at their chosen address. The startup, founded by Synthia Tshimanga, is based in Kinshasa.
Currently, Alma.cd does not have a dedicated mobile app. Users must access the platform through a web browser. To use the service, individuals create an account with their personal information, select the "Order" button, and choose the specific document they need. Alma.cd offers services for a variety of documents, including birth certificates, marriage licenses, and certificates of good conduct.
After selecting the document, users can add it to their cart and confirm their order. They then need to provide any necessary information specific to the document, with mandatory fields clearly marked. Following this step, users proceed to the delivery section where they enter their identification and preferred delivery address.
The final steps involve agreeing to the platform's terms and conditions and making an online payment via mobile money. Once the order is confirmed, users simply wait for their documents to be delivered.
Alma.cd achieved recognition in 2023, winning the women's award at the Congolese stage of the Orange Social Entrepreneur Prize for Africa and the Middle East.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
Google has teamed up with ALX South Africa to host Sub-Saharan Africa’s first Hardware Hackathon on 1 November 2024 at ALX’s Braamfontein hub.
The event will bring 20 selected learners from ALX’s talent pool to tackle real-world challenges in server hardware, Linux, and networking, simulating the work of Google Data Center Technicians.
Participants will compete for prizes and potential job opportunities with Google. The partnership, part of Google’s broader outreach strategy, aims to upskill young African talent and prepare them for tech careers.
Innovation and technology are changing many different industries. In South Africa, one entrepreneur is making a difference by offering special solutions for different people involved in the fresh food supply chain.
Greg Whitaker (photo), a trained accountant and South African entrepreneur, is the founder and CEO of Agrigate One Ltd, a startup aimed at simplifying the trade of fresh produce. Established in 2019, Agrigate One Ltd leverages technology to enhance connectivity and profitability in the agricultural sector. The startup offers a platform that digitizes and automates the supply chain for perishable goods.
For suppliers, Agrigate One Ltd provides comprehensive visibility into transactions, inventory, market trends, and the supply chain. By automating documentation, ensuring traceability, and planning for needs before and during the agricultural season, the startup optimizes operations and supports better decision-making.
Buyers benefit from access to a global supply network, while agricultural service providers gain tools to streamline export processes and automate administrative tasks, thereby reducing manual work and ensuring smoother operations.
Greg Whitaker holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Stellenbosch University and a Management Accounting diploma obtained in 2016 from The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.
He is also a member of OPUS, a community of entrepreneurs, founders, and business creators. Prior to launching Agrigate One Ltd, Whitaker worked at DSV, a transport and logistics company, where he joined the strategic support team for the president of Africa in 2012.
Melchior Koba
Kenya is at a very important point in its digital transformation. If the needed changes are made, the digital sector could be a big part of the country's economic growth.
Kenya's digital economy is projected to contribute a substantial 662 billion Kenyan shillings (approximately $5.13 billion) to the country's GDP by 2028, according to a new report.
The report, titled "Driving Digital Transformation of the Economy in Kenya," was presented to Kenyan authorities by the GSM Association (GSMA) on Tuesday. It explains that this growth will be largely driven by digital transformation in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, and commerce.
The impact of this digital momentum will extend beyond GDP growth. The report estimates that these reforms will create 300,000 new jobs and increase tax revenues by 150 billion shillings. These efforts align with President William Ruto's "Kwanza" program, which prioritizes the digital economy to diversify revenue sources and boost job creation, particularly for Kenya's youth. The potential of digitalization is seen as crucial for enhancing productivity, especially in rural areas, and addressing challenges posed by population growth.
Barriers to Digital Adoption
Despite these promising prospects, the GSMA report points out several obstacles hindering the widespread adoption of digital technologies in Kenya. A significant challenge is the gap between network coverage and actual mobile internet usage. While 99% of the population has access to 3G and 98% to 4G, only 33.5% of Kenyans actively use mobile internet. This digital divide limits the full integration of digital services into the national economy.
High costs of devices and connectivity, along with a lack of digital skills among the population, are identified as the main barriers to broader adoption. To address these issues, the report calls for bold policy measures aimed at reducing these costs, boosting demand, and encouraging further investment in digital infrastructure.
Samira Njoya
Morocco is ramping up efforts to establish itself as a leading technology hub on the continent. Following the launch of several digital platforms, it is now assessing its progress in various sectors.
Morocco's Minister of Justice, Abdellatif Ouahbi (photo), told the House of Representatives, on Monday that since January 2024, 51,000 criminal record extracts have been issued online out of 60,613 requests. Additionally, 6,727 electronic applications for Moroccan nationality certificates have been submitted remotely.
These updates are part of the initial assessment following the launch of several digital platforms by the Ministry of Justice. During the session, Ouahbi also noted that the state collected 16 million dirhams (approximately $1.6 million) through the electronic payment service for fines issued by fixed radar cameras. The platform for tracking court cases and files recorded 23 million visitors in 2023 and 12 million between January and July 2024.
The digitization of Morocco's judicial sector is advancing under the "Digital Morocco 2030" plan, which aims to leverage digital technologies as a driver of social and economic development. The plan seeks to position Morocco as a leading African nation in the digitization of public services by 2030, with the goal of ranking among the world’s top 50 countries in this field.
According to the "E-Government Survey 2024: Accelerating Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development," Morocco ranks fourth on the continent in the online administration development index, scoring 0.6841 out of 1, ahead of Seychelles (0.6773) and just behind Tunisia (0.6935).
Adoni Conrad Quenum
The digital revolution in Africa is happening fast and is making big changes in many different areas. This shift is trying to improve the quality of services given to people, whether in education, healthcare, government, or infrastructure.
The Guinean National Transitional Council (CNT) approved a €66 million credit agreement on Wednesday, October 23, with French investment bank Bpifrance. The loan is aimed at supporting the country’s digital transformation. Specifically it focuses on the shift from analog to digital radio and televiso.
The project includes the installation of Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT), modernization of the radio network, the construction of five regional studios by Thomson Broadcast, and the digitization of the country’s audiovisual archives. The goal is to ensure better broadcast quality for the population, providing high-definition services while preserving Guinea’s audiovisual heritage through a comprehensive digitization of historical content, including films, radio and television programs, and audio and video recordings.
This initiative aligns with Guinea’s commitments to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for digital migration, a transition that has been anticipated for nearly two decades. The agreement, signed on June 25, consists of two main components: a direct loan of €25 million from the French Treasury and a private loan of €31 million guaranteed by Bpifrance Assurance Export.
The allocated funds will also help equip major Guinean cities with autonomous production and broadcasting facilities. The National Audiovisual Institute (INA) will be responsible for the digital preservation of the country’s audiovisual archives, thus contributing to the promotion of Guinea’s cultural heritage.
This initiative is strategically important for Guinea, not only in terms of modernizing media infrastructure but also in enhancing access to information and creating new economic and employment opportunities in the media and audiovisual production sector.
Samira Njoya
In recent years, Gabon has emerged as a leader in Central Africa's digital sector, showcasing impressive advancements. The country is now focused on leveraging this progress to establish itself as a frontrunner in digital transformation across the continent.
Gabon is set to take a crucial step in its digital transformation with the launch of the Gabon Digital project, scheduled for November 7. Announced during the steering committee’s first session on Tuesday, October 22 in Libreville, the initiative aims to leverage digital technologies to boost the country's economic competitiveness and enhance administrative transparency.
The project is backed by an initial loan of 44 billion CFA francs (approximately $72.4 million) from the World Bank and focuses on several key areas. These include improving social aid management through the implementation of a unified social registry, securing data with the construction of a state-of-the-art data center, establishing a cybersecurity incident response center, digitizing civil registration systems, and introducing a digital payment system.
This initiative is part of the National Transition Development Plan (PNDT) 2024-2026, in which digital transformation plays a central role. It is also linked to other programs like eGabon, which aims to strengthen the healthcare system to improve access to medical services and promote equitable healthcare for all Gabonese citizens.
For nearly five years, the digital sector's contribution to Gabon's economy has remained around 5% of GDP. However, authorities are targeting an increase to 10-12% by 2025. The Gabon Digital project is seen as a key driver to accelerate this growth by maximizing the impact of digital solutions on the national economy.
Beyond modernizing the administration and promoting transparency, the project is expected to stimulate the emergence of new business sectors and create jobs in the digital domain. Additionally, it aims to diversify Gabon’s economy, which remains heavily reliant on the oil sector, laying the foundation for more sustainable and resilient development.
Samira Njoya
He wants to be a key player in growing Gabon's digital economy. To do this, he helps tech projects and teaches young people different digital skills.
Simplice Mve Asseko (photo) is a Gabonese expert in digital project management and an IT coordinator. He is the founder and CEO of Cyberschool Entrepreneuriat, an incubator dedicated to new information and communication technologies.
Founded in 2010, Cyberschool Entrepreneuriat leverages technology to promote entrepreneurship and supports young people in bringing their projects to life. The incubator offers training and support programs, as well as specialized seminars on creating business plans. To facilitate project tracking, it developed the Business Booster app.
The incubator regularly organizes digital luncheons, bringing together IT professionals, and offers training workshops in programming, software development, and IT project management for both young people and professionals.
Simplice Mve Asseko also works as an IT coordinator for Renault Group in France. He graduated from CY Tech, a school of science, engineering, economics, and management, where he earned a master’s degree in IT project management in 2012.
Between 2017 and 2018, he worked on several projects for ENGIE Home Services, a company specializing in heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems. In 2021, he served as an agile coach and product manager at Gabon's National Employment Office.
Melchior Koba
An expert in international trade, he shifted to entrepreneurship by offering e-mobility solutions. His goal is to help taxi drivers increase their earnings.
Serge Itjo (photo) is a Cameroonian entrepreneur and business graduate. He is the founder and CEO of Klandoo, a tech startup specializing in taxi booking services.
In 2023, Klandoo launched a mobility platform allowing users to book professional drivers. Using geolocation technology, the app connects users with nearby taxi drivers.
For partner drivers, the app provides access to a wide customer base. They operate independently, keeping 80% of their earnings while Klandoo takes a 20% commission. The startup also prioritizes safety, conducting regular vehicle inspections. In case of an accident or assault, both drivers and passengers are covered through partner hospitals.
“Drivers are available 24/7. However, for any trips—business, tourism, shopping, conferences, congresses, airport transfers, private parties, weddings, or events—it is important to book a day or even a year in advance,” explains the Cameroonian entrepreneur.
In addition to his role at Klandoo, Serge Itjo works as a project manager at Air Liquide, a company specializing in gases, technologies, and services for industry and healthcare. He holds an engineering degree in international trade, earned in 2002 from École Supérieure de Commerce International (ESCI) in France.
Melchior Koba
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The initiative is part of NamPost’s digital transformation program. Called “Project Sky,” it aims to enhance the organization's operational efficiency, optimize the customer experience, and promote financial inclusion.
NamPost, Namibia's national postal operator, launched a mobile app and online banking services last week to expand access to its financial services. Customers of the state-owned enterprise can now check balances, make payments, and transfer funds electronically from their smartphones or any internet-enabled device without visiting a post office.
“The MyNamPost Banking App and Internet Banking are not just technological upgrades—they represent a commitment to bringing modern financial services to the people of Namibia, wherever they are. Our customers now have more control over their finances with digital tools that are simple, affordable, and convenient,” said Festus Hangula, NamPost’s Managing Director.
Emma Theofelus, Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, acknowledged that innovative platforms like NamPost’s are crucial for financial inclusion. According to the World Bank, 71.35% of Namibians over the age of 15 had an account with a financial institution or mobile money provider in 2021, out of an estimated population of 2.5 million. However, she emphasized the need to equip all citizens “with the necessary skills to take advantage” of these services, noting the limited access to smartphones and the internet.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) reports that 79.6% of the Namibian population owns a mobile phone. Although the proportion of smartphone users is not specified, the ITU indicates that internet penetration in Namibia stands at 62.2%, with 63.2% of households having internet access at home.
However, the cost of internet access in Namibia remains relatively high compared to ITU standards, which recommend costs below or equal to 2% of gross national income (GNI) per capita. Namibians currently spend 2.6% of their GNI on mobile internet and 8.7% for fixed internet. According to the World Bank, Namibia’s GNI per capita was $12,170 in 2023.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
Last July, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched a program aimed at training young people in digital skills. A few months after its launch, authorities are now assessing its progress.
Ethiopian authorities have trained 31,000 citizens in coding within three months, according to a recent statement by Belete Mola, Ethiopia’s Minister of Innovation and Technology. He made this announcement while reviewing the results of the past fiscal year.
Belete Mola stated, “Over 246,000 citizens have enrolled in the training, and 31,000 of them have been certified. The young people trained as coders and the tech startups with creative potential will receive special support.”
The "5 Million Ethiopian Coders" initiative, launched last July by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in partnership with the United Arab Emirates, is part of the "Digital Ethiopia 2025" plan. Its aim is to provide training in programming, Android app development, data science, and fundamental digital skills in artificial intelligence.
This initiative aligns with Ethiopia’s broader goal to establish itself as a major tech hub in East Africa. The World Bank estimates that nearly 230 million jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa will require digital skills by 2030. Through the "5 Million Ethiopian Coders" program, Ethiopian youth are being prepared to meet this demand.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
South African digital transformation company Obami's Tech in Kind initiative is offering up to R1 million ($62,300) in pro bono digital services to South African non-profits and SMEs.
Selected organizations will receive up to R100,000 each in digital transformation services, including access to content digitization, course and program design.
Applications are open until October 31, 2024, and winners will also receive expert guidance and ongoing technical support to enhance their digital operations and efficiency.
Intra-African trade encounters numerous obstacles, including the absence of a unified payment system. The adoption of Papss addresses these challenges by streamlining payment processes and reducing dependence on foreign currencies, thereby promoting increased trade within Africa and enhancing economic integration.
Kenyan President William Ruto has called on commercial banks to expedite their adoption of the Pan-African Payments and Settlement Systems (Papss), urging them to transition away from using the U.S. dollar for intra-African trade. The president revealed this at the launch of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Accelerator programme at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Nairobi, on Wednesday, October 16.
Ruto emphasized the need to reduce transaction costs on the continent, which currently result in Africa losing over $5 billion annually. “With Papss, we can conduct transactions in our local currencies, significantly lowering exchange rate challenges and reducing transaction costs for businesses across Africa,” he noted, further encouraging banks to sign on to the system to enhance regional trade.
Raimond Molenje, acting CEO of the Kenya Bankers Association, confirmed that the association is actively working with the Central Bank of Kenya to implement a national switch to the Papss system, which would facilitate smoother trade with neighboring East African countries. This development aligns with Papss's goal of creating a single market for Africa and increasing intra-continental trade.
Papss, which was introduced by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in 2019, facilitates seamless payments in local currencies across African nations. Initially piloted in the West African Monetary Zone, it was formally rolled out by Afreximbank in September 2021, with full operations beginning in early 2022.
The AfCFTA creates a single market for goods and services, allowing Kenyan businesses to access a market of over 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of over $3.4 trillion. This significantly expands their customer base and revenue potential.
Hikmatu Bilali