African agriculture still faces numerous challenges that prevent the continent from achieving food self-sufficiency. Just as mechanization was key to the Industrial Revolution, digital technology in today's Fourth Industrial Revolution offers significant potential to transform the sector. Ethiopia is embracing this potential with an ambitious new strategy.
The Ethiopian government officially launched, on Tuesday, its Digital Agriculture Roadmap (DAR), a national plan to accelerate the digitalization of the agricultural sector, the Ministry of Agriculture said. Developed by the ministry in collaboration with the Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), the roadmap will be implemented from 2025 to 2032.
The government aims to enhance agricultural productivity through inclusive, accessible, and sustainable digital solutions, Agriculture Minister Girma Amente said. The strategy is designed to facilitate access to agricultural extension services via smartphones, improve input availability, strengthen financial services such as loans and agricultural insurance, and enhance coordination across the entire value chain, from production to commercialization, he said.
The DAR rollout will occur in two phases. The first, from 2025 to 2029, will focus on establishing basic digital infrastructure and developing priority services for agriculture. The second, from 2030 to 2032, aims to expand and diversify the digital ecosystem across the sector.
Authorities acknowledge that Ethiopia’s agricultural digitalization faces significant challenges, particularly limited connectivity and a lack of digital skills, which could slow technology adoption.
According to the report Driving Digital Transformation of the Economy in Ethiopia: Opportunities, Policy Reforms and the Role of Mobile, published by the GSMA in October 2024, 76% of Ethiopians still do not use mobile internet.
GSMA also estimates that smartphone penetration, a key tool in the DAR, stands at just 36% in Ethiopia. Additionally, the association rates the population’s proficiency in basic digital skills at 41 out of 100.
By Stéphanas Assocle,
Editing by Wilfried ASSOGBA
Morocco's e-government journey began in 2013 with the Maroc Numérique Plan and advanced in 2020 with the Maroc Digitale Strategy. By 2030, the government aims to accelerate this progress, creating a more efficient administration.
Morocco plans to launch its digital public services portal, e-services, on February 14, 2025, according to local media reports. Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, the Minister Delegate in charge of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, made the announcement on Tuesday before the Public Finance Control Committee at the House of Representatives, the reports said.
The online portal already centralizes around 600 public services, including more than 300 for citizens, about 200 for businesses, and nearly 100 for public administrations. The goal is to improve access to administrative services by streamlining procedures and reducing processing times.
The initiative is part of the Digital Morocco 2030 strategy, unveiled in September 2024. According to the United Nations, Morocco currently scores 0.5618 out of 1 on the Online Service Index, part of the E-Government Development Index (EGDI). The country ranks 100th globally and 11th in Africa, with ambitions to break into the global Top 50 by 2030.
The portal's launch is expected to facilitate interactions between citizens and the administration, improve access to essential services, and contribute to better digital governance. The Digital Morocco 2030 strategy document states that processing times for requests should be reduced by 50%, the reports added.
By Adoni Conrad Quenum,
Editing by Feriol Bewa
Google and the IFC project that Africa's digital economy will make up 5.2% of the continent's GDP by 2025. While this potential attracts some tech companies, others are strategically pulling back.
IBM is ending operations in Nigeria, Ghana, and other key African markets, transferring its regional functions to MIBB, a subsidiary of Midis Group, a multinational IT and telecommunications conglomerate, effective April 1, the company said. The transfer will also affect 34 other African countries where IBM has a presence.
"IBM are partnering with MIBB to launch an alternative operating model, and are still committed to doing business in Africa, this new operating model shows a strong commitment by IBM to a continued focus in Africa. IBM will continue to invest and innovate in Africa, including through the ongoing development of the industry’s most cutting-edge AI and hybrid cloud technology to ensure the success of our clients," IBM said in a statement.
IBM, present in Nigeria for over 50 years, has provided infrastructure and consulting services to critical industries such as banking, telecommunications, oil, gas, and government. The company cited growing competition from companies like Dell and Huawei, combined with global financial challenges, as factors in the repositioning.
In 2024, IBM's consulting business revenue declined 2% to $5.18 billion, while infrastructure sales dropped 8%, the company reported. Overall revenue increased 1% to $17.55 billion, driven by a 10% rise in software sales to $7.92 billion. Its exit comes as cloud adoption expands rapidly across Africa. A Telecom Advisory Services study commissioned by AWS projects cloud usage in Nigeria to triple over the next decade, potentially contributing $30.2 trillion to the country's economy by 2033.
MIBB will take over operations, support, and local client relations while marketing IBM’s products and services, including software, hardware, cloud, and consulting, the company said.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Reliable internet connectivity is crucial for economic growth, education, healthcare, and innovation, particularly in remote areas with scarce terrestrial networks. By connecting underserved people to the internet, Africa can accelerate digital transformation, ensuring that more communities can participate in the global digital economy.
Satellite communications provider Eutelsat has successfully met its Partner2Connect Digital Coalition pledge - backed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) - two years ahead of schedule. This milestone, announced on February 5, marks the connection of 1 million underserved people in Sub-Saharan Africa to high-speed satellite internet, reinforcing Eutelsat’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and supporting the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Eutelsat Group CEO Eva Berneke emphasized the milestone's significance, stating: “This achievement highlights our commitment to digital inclusion and underscores how we leverage cutting-edge satellite network solutions to meet the challenging demands for low-cost, high-availability, and trusted services in Africa.”
The achievement was made possible through Eutelsat’s Konnect Wi-Fi hotspots, powered by the EUTELSAT KONNECT satellite, which has delivered affordable, high-speed internet to remote areas where traditional networks remain inaccessible. Offering speeds between 5 Mbps and 100 Mbps, the service has enabled access to education, e-commerce, healthcare, and business opportunities.
Eutelsat’s initiative aligns with global efforts to expand digital access, particularly in Africa, where only 37% of the population is online according to ITU Facts and Figures 2023. By leveraging satellite technology, the company is bridging connectivity gaps, unlocking new economic and social opportunities, and empowering communities in the digital era.
As Eutelsat continues expanding its reach, this achievement sets a strong precedent for the role of satellite internet in accelerating Africa’s digital transformation.
Hikmatu Bilali
While the global digital economy continues to grow, broadband connectivity remains a major challenge in Africa, despite its vast potential to drive development and economic opportunities.
The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy has launched the National Broadband Alliance for Nigeria (NBAN) to accelerate broadband development and bridge connectivity gaps nationwide. The initiative was unveiled on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, in Lagos, bringing together key industry stakeholders to discuss expanding broadband access, strengthening multi-sector collaboration, and driving digital inclusion.
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in an address on behalf of Minister ‘Bosun Tijani noted that despite efforts to achieve 70% broadband penetration by 2025, existing infrastructure remains underutilized. “Many of the networks remain underutilised. In numerous parts of the country, the capacity of existing fibre infrastructure far exceeds the demand,” he said.
The NBAN aims to address these challenges by expanding access, promoting awareness, and increasing investments in broadband infrastructure. The government has set ambitious targets in its National Broadband Plan 2020-2025, including 25 Mbps minimum data speed in urban areas and 10 Mbps in rural areas, 80% population coverage by 2027, and 300–500% increase in broadband investments by 2027.
The initiative is expected to unlock economic opportunities, drive innovation, and enhance Nigeria’s digital economy, ensuring broader access to high-speed internet for millions. According to the World Bank Digital Progress and Trends Report 2023, access to high-speed internet can increase an individual's likelihood of employment by up to 13.2% and boost total employment per firm by up to 22%.
Hikmatu Bilali
Blockchain, an innovative and decentralized technology, opens up vast opportunities for Africa, particularly in securing transactions and improving transparency. Exploring this technology is of strategic importance for the continent's development.
Guinea's Minister of Posts, Telecommunications, and the Digital Economy, Rose Pola Pricemou (photo), met on Monday with a delegation from cryptocurrency firm Tether Limited to discuss potential collaboration on driving innovation and technological development in the country, the ministry said.
Discussions focused on developing innovative technology solutions, promoting blockchain training, and implementing awareness programs through digital hubs. The initiative aims to foster an innovation-friendly environment and strengthen synergies among digital sector stakeholders.
The potential partnership comes as Guinea undergoes rapid digital transformation, including the imminent launch of the Cité des Sciences et de l’Innovation de Guinée (CSIG). Under construction since July, the CSIG aims to become a West African hub of excellence for innovation. The collaboration with Tether is intended to enhance blockchain understanding and promote the technology among entrepreneurs, startups, and local institutions.
A recent report by Fortune Business Insights estimated the global blockchain market at $17.57 billion in 2023, projecting it to reach $825.93 billion by 2032, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 52.8%.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Global cooperation in space is booming, with countries sharing technology, data, and know-how. The Republic of Congo, with Kazakhstan's help, is working to boost its tech skills and better manage its resources.
The Republic of Congo and Kazakhstan signed an investment agreement on Tuesday to develop a high-resolution Earth observation satellite system, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry said.
The signing ceremony, held at the ministry, was attended by representatives from JSC NC Kazakhstan Gharysh Sapary, the Kazakh space agency, and a Congolese delegation.
"In addition to the satellite platform, Kazakhstan offers a comprehensive solution, including training and knowledge transfer. Kazakhstan is strengthening its position as a center for technological development, and international partners trust our solutions. This is already the second successful export, confirming the high level of the domestic space industry," said Zhaslan Madiyev, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry.
The agreement follows a joint roadmap signed on August 2, 2024, outlining strategic priorities for the collaboration and aligns with Congo’s strategy to diversify its technological partnerships and use space technology to address challenges including national security, natural resource management, agricultural monitoring, environmental protection and urban planning.
The Republic of Congo joins an international network of Earth observation satellites alongside countries like Mongolia. Once in orbit, the satellite will significantly improve forest monitoring, natural disaster management, agricultural activity tracking and urban infrastructure planning, the ministry said. The resulting data exchange and scientific cooperation will drive technological innovation, strengthening Congo’s digital sovereignty in a rapidly expanding strategic sector.
According to Mordor Intelligence, the global remote sensing satellite market was valued at $43.36 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $76.88 billion by 2029, growing at an annual rate of 12.14% over the forecast period.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Djiboutian authorities are stepping up initiatives to transform the country into a digital hub by 2035. This includes exploring support from other countries and international organizations.
Djibouti is ramping up efforts to implement its digital transformation roadmap, with the goal of becoming a technology hub by 2035. As part of this strategy, Mariam Hamadou Ali, Minister of Digital Economy and Innovation, met with representatives from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) during a workshop on Monday, February 3.
In recent months, Djibouti has already engaged with several countries and international organizations, including the European Union, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), India, and Qatar. Talks with Qatar have particularly focused on developing and strengthening cybersecurity partnerships.
The government's ambitions include expanding digital services, promoting ICT adoption, and creating a favorable investment climate for the private tech sector. However, Djibouti still faces challenges in its digital development.
According to the ITU, Djibouti currently ranks 17th in Africa out of 47 countries for ICT development, with a score of 61.6 out of 100. This marks a slight decline from 2023, when the country ranked 16th with a score of 63.6. Additionally, the United Nations e-Government Development Index (EGDI) places Djibouti in the "intermediate development" category, with a score of 0.2911 out of 1. On cybersecurity, the ITU classifies Djibouti in Tier 4 out of 5, grouping it with nations that demonstrate only basic government-driven cybersecurity initiatives.
International cooperation presents an opportunity for Djibouti to leverage the expertise of more advanced nations in digital transformation. However, most discussions remain at a preliminary stage, and it remains to be seen whether they will result in concrete agreements.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
A civil engineering graduate, he chose to make sustainable transport more accessible in Africa. To achieve this, he relies on technology and promotes the adoption of electric vehicles across the continent.
Felix Rubanda (photo) is a Rwandan tech entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Feru Energy, a startup specializing in e-mobility infrastructure across Africa.
Founded in 2022, Feru Energy aims to develop and deploy affordable and reliable e-mobility solutions for businesses and electric vehicle (EV) drivers on the continent. One of its key innovations is SafariCharger, a comprehensive charging optimization solution for electric vehicles.
SafariCharger includes a Charging Station Management System (CSMS) designed for infrastructure operators, as well as a mobile app. The CSMS provides real-time monitoring and analysis, offering detailed insights on charger usage to help operators optimize their charging networks.
The mobile app informs users about charging station availability, pricing, and locations. It also allows booking time slots and making payments via mobile money, a widely used payment method in Africa.
Rubanda is also the head of charging stations at Kabisa Electric, a Rwandan company specializing in electric mobility. In 2021, he co-founded Punda Group, a company leveraging technology to transform Africa’s construction sector. He holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering technologies from the University of Rwanda. Before venturing into entrepreneurship, he led Five Worlds, a Rwandan travel and tourism agency, from 2014 to 2017.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
He is an entrepreneur passionate about digital innovation, especially in e-commerce, financial inclusion, and USSD technology. His work focuses on streamlining commercial transactions between merchants, suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers, making business interactions more efficient and accessible.
Amein Eskinder (photo) is an Ethiopian computer scientist and tech entrepreneur, best known as the founder and CEO of Taywan, a B2B e-commerce and financing platform.
Founded in 2020, Taywan is a digital solution designed to streamline informal trade and supply chains for merchants, retailers, and kiosks. The platform offers a comprehensive distribution network, connecting manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, and retailers—while also providing financing solutions for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
“We are not only empowering MSMEs; instead, we are aiming to create an enabling ecosystem for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, and retailers so that each one of the stakeholders participates in achieving an inclusive and prosperous Ethiopia,” says Eskinder.
Today, Taywan serves 2,500 merchants, 25 agents, 25 importers, and 15 suppliers.
In addition to Taywan, Eskinder is the CEO of Cico, a startup specializing in unified Cash In, Cash Out point-of-sale solutions. Before launching Taywan, he founded HYTHEM Labs in 2017, a software research and development institute, which he led until 2022.
Eskinder holds a computer technician diploma from The Spark Academy in Ethiopia. Between 2021 and 2023, he also worked as a consultant for Hover Developer Services, a tech startup that helps Android developers integrate USSD actions from any mobile operator into their apps.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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In today's digital world, AI is crucial for business growth. To remain competitive, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) need to adopt these technologies, boosting both innovation and efficiency.
The General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) announced, yesterday, the launch of “Génération AI: Booster 1000 PME Marocaines,” a program to help 1,000 Moroccan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) adopt artificial intelligence. Developed in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and LinkedIn, the initiative will provide access to specialized AI training.
Through this program, entrepreneurs will receive LinkedIn learning licenses, enabling them to acquire essential AI skills and leverage its opportunities. In addition, several training modules will be made available, covering strategic topics such as innovation, sustainable development, and digital transformation. These individual and non-transferable licenses will remain valid until September 2025.
The initiative comes at a time when digital transformation is becoming a key driver of competitiveness for Moroccan businesses. A report published on May 30 by consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) revealed that 27% of surveyed African business leaders stated their companies had already adopted generative AI, compared to a global average of 32%. The study, conducted across 105 countries, was based on a survey of 380 African executives, highlighting the continent’s relative lag in AI adoption.
By enhancing entrepreneurs’ skills, “Génération AI” aims to accelerate Morocco’s digital transformation. Supported by the Association des Femmes Entrepreneurs du Maroc (AFEM) and Technopark, the program seeks to have a significant impact on the country's business ecosystem. By facilitating AI adoption and helping SMEs upskill, this initiative could play a crucial role in integrating emerging technologies, driving growth and competitiveness for Moroccan businesses in the digital era.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Digital transformation and cybersecurity have become central to national security strategies worldwide. Strengthening ICT infrastructure and digital security capabilities can significantly enhance military operations, disaster response, and secure communication networks.
On January 30, 2025, the Director General of the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) Collins Mbulo met with Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele to explore areas of collaboration, focusing on ICT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital solutions for military and national defense needs.
Lt. Gen. Zyeele welcomed the strong partnership between the two institutions, emphasizing the need for proactive collaboration in tackling national security challenges in an increasingly digital world. “I have no doubt that your institution shall continue to positively impact on my organisation’s achievement of my vision towards modernisation in this technological environment,” he said.
The Zambia Army Commander also urged ZICTA to encourage mobile network providers to expand coverage in areas where the Army has a significant presence, improving communication and operational efficiency.
To further strengthen cooperation, Engr. Mbulo proposed establishing regular communication channels for knowledge-sharing on spectrum management and cybersecurity, ensuring both institutions are equipped to address emerging digital threats.
The World Bank’s Digital Economy Diagnostic Report highlights Zambia's notable progress in digital transformation, particularly in digital infrastructure, financial services, and platforms. As the country advances technologically, the Zambia Army's participation in digital initiatives is expected to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies in defense operations, enhancing national security and operational efficiency.
The collaboration between ZICTA and the Zambia Army highlights the growing intersection of ICT and national security, reinforcing Zambia’s commitment to leveraging technology for defense, connectivity, and digital innovation.
Hikmatu Bilali
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