Despite facing challenges, African nations are investing more in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) across different industries. In the field of education, Uganda is aiming to make significant advancements.
Ugandan authorities on Friday inaugurated the steering committee for an Augmented Virtual Reality (AVR) project at the Uganda Information Communication Technology (UICT) university. The project aims to introduce AVR into classrooms.
Fredrick E. Kitoogo, UICT's director, announced that “1,267 staff and students from UICT have been enrolled on the AVR platform, with 1,370 total logins recorded. 5000 educator licenses with 1267 already issued to UICT staff and students; and 750 enterprise licenses are yet to be distributed.”
The project is part of the Ugandan government's broader efforts to improve education quality through the use of new technologies. Authorities believe that virtual reality and augmented reality can create immersive and interactive learning environments, enhancing student engagement and motivation.
Uganda has also allowed smartphones, tablets, and computers in schools. “We are mindful of the fact that IT devices are expensive. So government has come up with projects like furnishing school computer labs. With time, government is coming up with measures to ensure that the cost of these devices is brought down so that they are as affordable as possible,” said Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
After completing his engineering degree in Germany, he moved to the United States to gain experience in digital health. Returning to Africa, he focused on developing technological solutions to improve healthcare on the continent.
Yaya Mbaoua (photo), a Cameroonian electrical engineer, is the co-founder and CEO of Zencey, a medical technology startup that aims to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability in sub-Saharan Africa.
Founded in 2021, Zencey offers a mobile application that allows patients to consult with expert doctors from the comfort of their homes. The platform boasts a network of 1,400 pharmacies and over 50 partner medical laboratories, providing patients with easy access to medications and diagnostic tests.
To automate healthcare in Africa, Zencey leverages artificial intelligence. Its API enables doctors to create personalized AI-driven chatbots for patient screening, triage, symptom checking, appointment scheduling, and other tasks. Additionally, the API facilitates access to clinical information for better diagnosis and helps asymptomatic patients obtain risk profiles.
Before founding Zencey, Mbaoua established The Mbaoua Group in 2017, with the goal of improving access to quality medical care in Africa. He served as CEO until 2020.
Mbaoua holds a master's degree in electrical engineering from the Technical University of Rhineland-Palatinate Kaiserslautern-Landau, Germany, earned in 1995. In 2002, he trained in finance and technological innovation strategies at the MIT Sloan School of Management.
His career began in 1996 at Comsearch, a U.S. technology company. He entered the healthcare industry in 2011 at Rally Health, serving as Vice President of Products. In 2014, he became Vice President of Sales and Business Development at Med1 Healthcare Group. In 2016, he was appointed Managing Director of GlobalMed Telemedicine in Africa.
As an entrepreneur backed by the Techstars accelerator, Mbaoua won the Africa IoT & AI Challenge in 2023, a regional competition for entrepreneurs with innovative ideas in IoT, AI, and related fields.
Melchior Koba
In 2023, Ethiopia launched a new artificial intelligence policy. To fully leverage the potential of this technology, the country is seeking strategic partnerships.
A delegation of Russian artificial intelligence (AI) experts, headed by Russia's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Evgeny Terekhin, visited the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute on Wednesday, August 21. They were welcomed by Taye Girma, the Institute's Deputy Director General.
The visit is part of the two countries' growing cooperation in the technology sector. As generative AI and large language models continue to advance, AI has become a key area of focus for their partnership.
Ethiopia adopted its national AI policy in July 2023. The policy outlines the country's strategy for leveraging AI to drive development, covering areas such as data management, human capital development, research and development, infrastructure, legal and ethical considerations, and international cooperation.
A partnership with Russia in AI could offer Ethiopia several benefits. It could facilitate technology and skills transfers, help develop AI applications tailored to local needs, and attract Russian investment in Ethiopia's tech sector, boosting innovation and job creation. For Russian companies, the cooperation could provide an opportunity to expand their influence in the AI domain in Africa.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
Starlink, the satellite internet service from SpaceX, is set to begin operations in Ghana at the end of August 2024, according to the National Communications Authority.
In a press release published on August 22, the NCA confirmed that Starlink had completed all necessary due diligence, clearing the way for the launch.
Starlink received approval to operate in Ghana in April, following discussions with the NCA, which granted the license after thorough checks.
Expanding and maintaining robust network infrastructure is essential for improving internet accessibility, supporting economic growth and fostering innovation across Africa. The push for tech companies to contribute to network infrastructure costs is crucial for development, as it addresses the continent's growing digital demand.
South Africa's telecoms industry is urging technology companies to financially support the expansion of network infrastructure. This request was outlined in a report released by the Association of Comms and Technology (ACTforSA) on August 20.
Titled "Promoting Equitable Participation and Sustainable Growth: Exploring Policy, Commercial, Competition, and Socio-Economic Perspectives in South Africa's Over-the-Top (OTT) and Telco Ecosystem," the document argues that tech companies benefit from existing networks without contributing to the associated costs.
"The success of OTT platforms depends on a robust network infrastructure, but they are not currently contributing enough to its upkeep" said Nomvuyiso Batyi, CEO of ACT. "We believe OTTs should contribute to network upgrades and development."
The ACT is pushing for a "fair share" model where over-the-top (OTT) platforms — such as video, audio, and messaging services — would help fund the construction, maintenance and upgrades of the networks they rely on.
According to Statista, the revenue in the OTT video market alone in Africa is forecasted to reach $3.90 billion in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.30% from 2024 to 2029, leading to a projected market volume of US$5.81bn by 2029. Despite this growth, these platforms currently do not contribute to network infrastructure costs.
As OTT services continue to expand rapidly, their reliance on existing networks intensifies, placing an increasing financial burden on telecom operators responsible of building and maintaining the infrastructure.
Hikmatu Bilali
Expanding the backbone network positions Nigeria to better integrate into the global digital economy. The increased connectivity will also facilitate access to online education, healthcare and financial services, driving social and economic inclusion across Africa.
Nigeria's Federal Government is set to begin deploying 90,000 kilometers of fiber-optic cable across the country within the next 6 months, according to Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. This expansion aims to increase the nation's backbone network from 35,000 to 125,000 km, significantly enhancing connectivity and improving telecoms services nationwide.
Today, as I reflect on my time in office as Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, I am proud of what we have collectively achieved over the last one year in laying a foundation for the growth of our digital economy.
— Dr. 'Bosun Tijani (@bosuntijani) August 21, 2024
The clarity that comes from our Strategic… pic.twitter.com/HZAdsIYZG7
Dr. Tijani disclosed this plan on August 21, while highlighting the Ministry's achievements over 2023. The project, which could start anytime between now and February 2025, is expected to create opportunities by stimulating a more vibrant digital ecosystem, connecting more communities and integrating more Nigerians into the digital economy.
Funding for this project is being finalized with partners to ensure aggregation. The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to oversee the project's delivery, the Minister further revealed.
According to Datareportal’s "Digital 2024: Nigeria" of January 2024, Nigeria’s internet penetration rate stood at around 45.5%, with approximately 103 millions internet users. Expanding the fiber-optic network is expected to significantly increase this penetration rate, address connectivity issues and reduce the digital divide, bringing internet access to underserved areas.
Hikmatu Bilali
As digital services become increasingly vital for economic activities, the availability of reliable data centres will support the growth of digital economies across Africa. This could foster a more interconnected and robust African digital ecosystem.
Africa’s leading carrier-neutral Tier III data center operator Raxio Group has officially inaugurated in Kinshasa its state-of-the-art data centre, Raxio DRC1, the group announced on August 22. This marks a significant milestone in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s digital transformation.
Hello DRC! Today marks the official inauguration of our Tier III certified data data centre in Kinshasa.
— Raxio Group (@raxio_group) August 22, 2024
Read the full market announcement:
👉🏼 https://t.co/hi7QLwJXh1#RaxioRDC #RaxioGroup pic.twitter.com/BqXGxkw781
This facility representing a $30 million investment has received Tier III accreditation from the Uptime Institute and becomes the country’s largest data center. Located in Limete area, the two-storey Raxio DRC1 spans 1,542 square meters and can accommodate up to 400 racks, delivering 1.5MW of IT power. The data centre is strategically positioned along key fibre routes, offering top-tier colocation and connectivity services, strongly emphasizing sustainability.
Raxio Group’s CEO, Robert Mullins, highlighted the importance of this facility in supporting the DR Congo’s burgeoning digital economy, stating :“With this facility, we are providing the critical infrastructure essential to supporting the digital economy and enhancing connectivity.”
The facility is part of Raxio’s broader strategy to build a pan-African digital backbone, with additional data centrers planned across the continent. The launch of Raxio DRC1 also lines up with the DRC government’s National Digital Plan (Plan National du Numérique), which aims to foster digital inclusion and economic growth through expansive digitalization.
The data centre is expected to play a key role in improving the country’s digital landscape by reducing latency for real-time applications and providing a reliable backbone for mobile and internet connectivity.
Raxio Group continues to expand its footprint with operational facilities in Uganda, Ethiopia, Mozambique, and now the DRC. The company is set to launch new centers in Côte d’Ivoire, Tanzania, and Angola, further solidifying its role in Africa’s digital transformation.
According to the "Africa Data Center Market Size - Industry Report on Share, Growth Trends & Forecasts Analysis Up to 2029" by Mordor Intelligence, the African data center market is projected to grow at a compound annual rate (CAGR) of 12.34% from 2024 to 2029. The increasing digitalization demand for cloud services and expanding data centres across the continent are key drivers of this growth.
Hikmatu Bilali
Algerian authorities plan to ultimately send 450 local startups to China, South Korea, and the United States. The goal is, among other things, to boost the local tech sector.
Public startup accelerator Algeria Venture announced on Thursday that it is sending two delegations of 30 high-potential local startups to China and South Korea.
The 15-day trips aim to expose Algerian startups to leading tech hubs, foster interactions with innovation leaders, and explore potential collaborations with global companies.
Explaining the purpose of these isits, Sidali Zerrouki, CEO of Algeria Venture, said, "These visits will provide startups with a global perspective and allow them to learn from the best international practices."
The initiative is part of Algeria Venture's Algerian Startup Exchange Program (ASEP), which supports the growth of local startups. ASEP aims to connect Algerian startups with global tech companies to benefit from their expertise, resources, and opportunities.
In 2023, Chinese startups attracted $27.4 billion in funding, according to the 2023 edition of the "State Of Venture" report by CB Insights, a strategic analysis company based on AI for business intelligence. Meanwhile, South Korean startups raised $9.8 billion in 2023, according to data from the Ministry of SMEs and Startups.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
He has already founded several tech companies, including a startup specializing in customer loyalty. His company uses technology to build stronger relationships between businesses and their customers.
Marwan Kenawy (photo) is an Egyptian serial entrepreneur and the co-founder and CEO of Dsquares, a leading provider of loyalty solutions in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Founded in 2012, Dsquares specializes in loyalty and rewards programs, helping businesses strengthen their relationships with customers. The company offers a comprehensive range of tools that cover all aspects of business strategy, from merchant management to data analysis.
Dsquares provides a platform that integrates modern features, including points systems, electronic upgrade vouchers (e-vouchers), gamification, and robust analytics tools.
Operating in 10 countries across the Middle East and Africa, Dsquares collaborates with companies from various sectors, including banking, telecommunications, retail, travel, hospitality, automotive, and oil. To date, the startup has partnered with over 21,000 retail outlets and manages more than 75 customized programs.
In 2019, Kenawy co-founded Lucky App, an Egyptian startup aimed at revolutionizing shopping, payments, and savings in the Middle East and North Africa. The app has already attracted more than eight million users, offering credit products, discounts, and cashback rewards that can be used both online and in-store with thousands of local and international brands.
Kenawy holds a degree in business administration, which he earned in 2004 from the University of New Brunswick in Canada. He also obtained an international diploma in business administration and management in 2006 from Cambridge College in the United States.
After completing his studies, he joined Vodafone Egypt in 2006 as a senior channel marketing specialist. He subsequently held various positions, including team leader for the postpaid segment, head of business strategy and planning, and head of marketing for mobile internet and smartphones, before leaving the company in 2012.
Melchior Koba
Designed to make event organization easier for promoters, the online ticketing solution includes both management and marketing features.
South African startup Howler has developed a digital solution that allows event organizers to set up secure online ticketing for various events. Founded in 2014 in Johannesburg by Scott Witters, Shai Evian, Simon Powell-Jackson and Steven Cuzen, the company offers a comprehensive platform for event management.
Howler's solution includes an app available on iOS and Android, which has been downloaded over 10,000 times. The app enables on-site ticket verification through QR code scanning or participant searches using email, name or ID number. Most ticketing processes, however, take place on the web platform.
Event promoters create an account on Howler's web platform by providing personal information. They can then create custom events and sell tickets through the system. The solution caters to a wide range of events, including concerts, festivals, sporting events and exhibitions. It allows promoters to market their events, offer various payment options to customers and access management tools from their dashboard to adjust marketing strategies as needed. Its team also handles ticket delivery and other services.
Since its launch, Howler has issued more than 2.5 million tickets, processed over 10 million cashless transactions, and generated more than 1.5 billion rand ($83.2 million).
Adoni Conrad Quenum
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In line with its mission to pioneer a sound financial ecosystem that benefits everyone, Zofi Cash helps employees manage emergencies and unexpected situations.
Zofi Cash is a fintech solution developed by a Ugandan startup that enables users, specifically company employees, to receive salary advances to address financial emergencies before payday. Founded in 2021 by Paul Kirungi and Gordon Turibamwe, the Kampala-based startup offers up to 50% of a user's salary as salary advance.
"The traditional 30-day pay cycle can leave people without funds during unexpected expenses and emergencies. Zofi Cash solves this problem by providing early access to wages, allowing employees to address immediate needs without waiting until the end of the month for payday," Zofi Cash explains.
Its digital solution includes a mobile app available on both iOS and Android, which has already been downloaded more than 50,000 times, according to Play Store statistics. Users must create an account with their personal information to access the fintech's services, and it is important to note that the user's employer must have a partnership with Zofi Cash.
In May 2023, it raised $1 million from Advancly, a business-to-business financing firm operating in six African countries, to support its growth.
Commenting on the funding round, Lotanna Julian, co-founder of Advancly, said, "Cash flow management is as important as earning money itself. The work that Zofi Cash is doing connects to our ultimate goal of building the rail tracks for a more robust financial ecosystem that delivers prosperity for all."
Adoni Conrad Quenum
Driven by his passion for engineering, he is developing autonomous airships to revolutionize global goods and services delivery. His startup has already received multiple awards and distinctions for its innovative approach.
Spencer Horne (photo) is a South African mechanical engineer and entrepreneur, best known as the founder and CEO of Cloudline, a startup focused on designing autonomous airships.
Horne established Cloudline in 2017 with the mission of connecting isolated communities to global supply chains. The company is developing a network of autonomous airships designed to deliver goods and services worldwide.
These innovative airships operate on batteries and solar energy, enabling zero-carbon flights. According to Cloudline, their airships can reduce carbon emissions by up to four tons per day compared to traditional helicopters. Each airship boasts a range of over 200 kilometers, an endurance of 12 hours, and a payload capacity of 100 kilograms.
Horne earned his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Harvard University in 2014. During his studies, he completed an internship in 2011 with the wind energy development division of BioTherm Energy, a company specializing in renewable energy.
In 2012, he joined Mobius Motors, an automotive startup based in Kenya, as an engineering analyst. From 2014 to 2016, Horne worked as a business analyst for McKinsey & Company in South Africa.
In 2019, Horne was recognized as one of the 30 innovators on the Quartz Africa digital platform. That same year, Cloudline won the Safety Ideas Challenge organized by the insurer Santam, which honors companies offering innovative solutions in safety and insurance technology.
Melchior Koba
Educational technology company Schoolap, based in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has expanded into Kenya to grow its presence in Anglophone Africa. The move follows its success in Francophone markets, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Côte d'Ivoire.
The platform, which offers digital curriculum management, interactive learning tools, and performance tracking, aims to address educational gaps and support Kenya's efforts to integrate technology into its education system.
As digital payments gain popularity in Africa, new laws introduced may hinder innovation in this sector.
Somali merchants launched protests on Monday, August 19, opposing a newly implemented 5% flat tax on electronic payments, especially those made via mobile phones. The levy, considered "inappropriate," adds to the existing financial burdens faced by the country's businesses.
"One of the main benefits of digital transactions is that they provide financial inclusion for people traditionally excluded from the formal banking sector. By taxing these transactions, the government effectively discourages the use of digital financial services, pushing people back toward cash transactions, which are less safe, less efficient, and less transparent," explained Abdillahi Hashi Abib, a member of the Somali Federal Parliament.
The tax, which went into effect on Sunday, August 18, is directly deducted from business accounts at the point of sale. The government intends to use the revenue to fund infrastructure and enhance security in the country, which has been battling an Islamist insurgency led by the Shebab militants for over fifteen years.
Defending the measure, Finance Minister Bihi Iman Egeh says it is a transparent tax established by a 1984 law, already approved by Parliament. He added that merchants' concerns stem from misunderstandings, without providing further details.
The implementation of this tax comes exactly one year after the introduction of a standardized QR code designed to facilitate contactless payments in Somalia and improve financial inclusion. The tax is expected to be passed on to consumers, with a limited effect on the overall profitability of businesses.
Samira Njoya