The Southern African country joins the technological advancement trends in the region. This move aims to increase the security of people and will contribute to data management for social and economic development.

Namibia's Cabinet has given the green light to the implementation of contactless microchip identity documents. These advanced digital IDs will consolidate various national documents, marking a pivotal step in the country's technological evolution. Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Dr. Peya Mushelenga, announced this development during his customary weekly Cabinet Briefing which took place on August 15.

During an interview with Nina on NBC Digital News' Daily Roundup, Jackson Wandjiva, Executive Director of Civil Registration at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security (MHAISS), emphasized that the move will help “Provide a secure and inclusive identity management environment that will benefit the holder and the service providers (..) eliminate fraud and identity theft.

The initiative falls under the purview of MHAISS, which has received a directive to explore the integration of diverse national documents into these digital IDs. With this revolutionary approach, Namibia aims to streamline administrative processes, enhance security measures, and provide citizens with a more convenient means of identification.

This recent Cabinet decision highlights the nation's proactive approach to technological advancement. These key developments signal the government's determination to propel the country toward a brighter and more inclusive future.

Hikmatu Bilali

Posted On jeudi, 24 août 2023 09:58 Written by

Digital technologies are quite useful, and many of their advantages emerged during the Covid-19 crisis. Seduced by them, many African governments decided to make the digital sector a pillar of their development strategy.

The Ugandan Ministry of ICT and National Orientation launched a new plan for digital transformation on August 17. The plan revolves around seven (7) key axes: digital infrastructure and connectivity; digital services; cybersecurity, data protection and privacy; digital skills; innovation and entrepreneurship; systematic experimentation and preservation of the national environment.

"The Digital Transformation Plan represents a bold vision of our nation's future, one that is not driven by technology alone, but in which technology serves as a catalyst for sustainable development, economic growth and improved living conditions for all Ugandans," said the ICT Minister, Chris Baryomunsi.

The five-year strategy (2023-2027) was drawn with the help of several partners, including the UN Development Program (UNDP). It is set to foster an administrative, economic, and social environment that will benefit both Ugandans and foreign investors.

According to a government survey on ICT conducted nationwide, only 5% of government ministries, departments, and agencies had internal IT interoperability frameworks in 2022. Furthermore, only 61% of local governments had access to the Internet, while only 5.6% of their staff regularly used a computer for business purposes.

Around one in two businesses (55%) had Internet access in the year reviewed, and only one in three had a professional website; 94% of the population still had no Internet access at home. 74% of the population had a cell phone, 49% of the population had a Mobile Money account, versus 10% with a personal bank account. The broadband Internet penetration rate was 55%. Currently, the contribution of ICT to gross domestic product (GDP) is estimated at 9%.

Uganda’s new Digital Transformation Plan falls under its 2040 Digital Uganda Vision launched in 2013. 

Muriel Edjo

Posted On mercredi, 23 août 2023 17:16 Written by

Amid the ongoing technological revolution, the tech giant has introduced a range of initiatives aimed at involving African startups. This highlights Google's dedication to cultivating innovation within the African technology landscape.

Global tech giant Google has introduced the 'Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First' program, now open for applications. This initiative aims to support African startups using artificial intelligence (AI) to solve local problems.

The 10-week equity-free accelerator is designed for startups up to the series A stage operating in Africa or working on Africa-focused AI solutions. Participants will gain access to Google's AI expertise, up to $350,000 Google Cloud credits, mentorship from AI professionals, and networking opportunities.

The program highlights AI's transformative global role while acknowledging African startups' contributions to tackling regional issues with AI solutions. Folarin Aiyegbusi, Google's Head of Startup Ecosystem for Africa, commended the dynamic tech landscape and the startups' vision. “AI First' is more than a program; it's a testament to our belief in the vision of these startups, ensuring they have the support and guidance they need to realize their full potential,” he said.

Since its 2018 launch, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program has aided 106 startups across 17 countries, raising over $263 million and creating 2,800 job opportunities.

Startups interested in the initiative can apply via this link by September 6, 2023.

Hikmatu Bilali

Posted On mercredi, 23 août 2023 15:48 Written by

The partnership aims to empower people and businesses by leveraging technology infrastructure to improve access to goods and services. This step should contribute to fostering economic growth on the continent.

Mastercard, a global fintech leader, partnered earlier this month with Lipa Later, a key fintech player, to boost the adoption of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services in Africa.

This collaboration will offer tailored BNPL solutions and improved payment options, benefiting both consumers and merchants. With Mastercard's merchant network, tech innovations, and Lipa Later's consumer credit expertise, the partnership aims to enhance access to crucial products and services, streamlining credit access and transaction experiences.

Kenya, with an 84% formal financial service usage according to the 2021 FinAccess Household Survey Report, shows growth in financial inclusion. Yet, a significant portion still lacks access. This collaboration seeks to bridge this gap, extending digital financial services to the underserved.

Shehryar Ali, Mastercard's East Africa Country Manager, stressed the partnership's role in providing new digital payment solutions. By leveraging Lipa Later, Mastercard aims to ensure secure digital payments and foster financial inclusion for underserved communities, thereby promoting economic growth. “Mastercard is fundamentally committed to promoting financial inclusion, and this alliance unfolds fresh avenues for consumers and retailers to tap into previously inaccessible digital payment solutions,” she stated.

The BNPL solution simplifies financing at checkout, with instant Know Your Customer (KYC) capabilities. This benefits consumers and boosts merchant revenue, allowing a wider product range.

Eric Muli, CEO of Lipa Later Group, highlighted the partnership's significance in expanding BNPL and lending solutions in Africa. The collaboration seeks to stimulate economic empowerment and innovation in Africa's retail sector.

This partnership showcases Mastercard's commitment to inclusive growth through technology-driven solutions. By backing new payment models and local entrepreneurship, Mastercard propels economic progress in Africa.

Hikmatu Bilali

 

Posted On mercredi, 23 août 2023 05:20 Written by

Election periods are characterized by sensitive information and potential misinformation due to conflicting intentions, but today's technology can help minimize these issues.

Mozambique is introducing an innovative digital platform that employs artificial intelligence (AI) to counter disinformation and uphold information integrity during elections. While announcing the adoption of the digital platform -during a press briefing on August 14 - Regina Matsinhe, spokesperson for the Technical Secretariat for Electoral Administration (STAE) emphasized its significance for the upcoming municipal elections scheduled for October 11th.

The digital platform, named "eMonitor+," developed by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), has already proved effective in countries like Lebanon, Tunisia, Libya, and Peru. Mozambique's adoption sets it apart as the first Southern African and Portuguese-speaking country to embrace AI for election integrity.

Matsinhe highlighted the platform's role in promoting information integrity and countering disinformation. "We're implementing an innovative AI-based platform to ensure information integrity," she stated.

The eMonitor+ platform employs AI and machine learning to analyze online media, identifying electoral violations, misinformation, hate speech, polarization, pluralism, and online violence against women. This analysis empowers election commissions and media stakeholders with insights through graphical representations.

With around 4.5 billion meticais (approximately US$70 million), STAE covers logistical aspects leading to polling day - from preparation, training, and material acquisition to transport, equipment, and human resources.

For successful 2023 municipal elections and subsequent 2024 general elections, an estimated 18.7 billion meticais (US$292 million) is needed to ensure proper preparation.

Mozambique's AI-driven approach underscores its commitment to transparent democratic processes. By combating disinformation and promoting fair practices, the nation sets a global example for modernizing elections.

Hikmatu Bilali

Posted On mardi, 22 août 2023 18:18 Written by

Well aware that the country can have no sustainable digital economy without reliable and quality internet, the South Sudan government has been, since 2020, taking steps to reinforce its capacities in this aspect.

The Presidents of South Sudan and Kenya, Salva Kiir Mayardit and William Ruto, respectively, signed a fiber-optic cable deal last Saturday, August 19, in Nairobi. The cable will connect Eldoret in northwest Kenya to Juba, the capital of South Sudan.

William Ruto, on the occasion, said that the project will enhance connectivity, foster integration, and boost intraregional trade between the two countries. 

This project is part of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia-Transport Corridor (LAPSSET) project. Under the latter, seven key infrastructure projects will be developed in the three nations, to achieve economic growth and prosperity and reduce the infrastructure deficit.

Before the recent deal, Kenya and South Sudan already shared a fiber-optic cable. Indeed, in October 2020, 630 km of fiber-optic cable were deployed at the border between the two countries, under the regional project for the facilitation of transport, trade, and development in East Africa. The World Bank and the Kenyan government financed the cable’s establishment at the time.

The new interconnection will link the South Sudanese capital to the rest of the world. It will also reduce the high cost of the Internet, consequently improving cross-border communication and trade.

Samira Njoya

Posted On mardi, 22 août 2023 15:41 Written by

In recent years, Egypt has made major strides in its digital transformation. To further achieve these goals, the government is searching for partners with shared digital ambitions. 

Egypt's Minister of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), Amr Talaat (photo, right), recently met his counterparts, Abdullah Al-Swaha from Saudi Arabia and Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw (photo, left) from India, to explore ways of strengthening their cooperation in the field of Information and Communication Technology.

The meetings were held on the sidelines of the G20 Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy, which took place on Saturday, August 19 in Bangalore, India.

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), discussions between Abdullah Al-Swaha and Amr Talaat focused on strategic projects to promote youth, women, and entrepreneurship. Emphasis was placed on the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation in critical areas such as communications infrastructure and subsea cables.

The meeting with India's Minister of Railways, Communications, Electronics, and Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, focused on ways to implement the digital MoU they signed in January. They also discussed means of cooperation in the electronics industry, digital capacity building through partnerships between training institutions affiliated with the two ministries, and possible collaboration in digital infrastructure to support digital transformation.

Also in India, Amr Talaat held talks with Omar Al-Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Telework Applications. The two ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation between the two countries in the fields of artificial intelligence and data governance.

The meetings, initiated several months ago by the Egyptian ICT Minister, are part of Egypt's Vision 2030 and its digital transformation strategy, which aim to strengthen economic and social development in all sectors and make the country a digital pole of excellence in Africa.

Samira Njoya

Posted On mardi, 22 août 2023 03:10 Written by

Kenya’s ambition is to become a digital hub in sub-Saharan Africa. To achieve that ambition, the government and its partners are implementing innovative projects to expand the country’s digital economy. 

AI tech solutions provider Webb Fontaine recently partnered with state agency Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade) to introduce the Digital Logistics Market Place (DLMP) in Kenya. This platform aims to reshape logistics practices, increase trade volumes, accelerate e-commerce growth, and stimulate the development of Kenya's vast trading market.

"The DLMP is an online marketplace of trade.[...]  It offers B2B services to traders with seamless search, find, and send capabilities, fostering growth, reliability, and empowerment," said Webb Fontaine CEO Alioune Ciss.

The introduction of DLMP in Kenya comes as the East African country aims to position itself as a digital hub in sub-Saharan Africa. It is part of KenTrade's strategy to digitize business activities in the country, to increase the contribution of digital trade to the country's economy.

The DLMP brings together shipping lines, trucking companies, freight forwarders, importers, exporters, warehousing companies, and insurance providers in an integrated digital marketplace. This platform gives traders the opportunity to present their services online and compete for bids, fostering a competitive environment that stimulates efficiency and cost savings.

Through this partnership and the establishment of the DLMP, the two entities hope to capitalize on Kenya's strategic location, solid infrastructure, and diversified economy. The aim is to make the DLMP the cornerstone for the continued development of Kenya's booming commercial market.

Samira Njoya 

Posted On mardi, 22 août 2023 03:05 Written by

Nearly half of the African population lacks access to digital financial solutions. To address this issue–meeting the needs of financially excluded and disadvantaged people– the African Development Bank (AfDB) and its partners have taken several steps.

India will contribute $2 million to the African Digital Financial Inclusion Facility (ADFI), a fund hosted and managed by the African Development Bank (AfDB). The Bank disclosed the news on August 2.

According to the AfDB, the money will help tackle bottlenecks to the growth and adoption of digital financial solutions, as well as accelerate financial inclusion in Africa.

"India's pioneering role in digital financial services, the extension of financial inclusion to remote rural areas, and the creation of infrastructure for digitizing financial services offer India an excellent opportunity to work within the ADFI partnership to share learning and expertise on public digital infrastructure to promote digital financial inclusion across the continent," said Manisha Sinha, Deputy Secretary to the Department of Economic Affairs and Principal Board Member of the ADFI for India.

Due to Covid-19, Africa’s need for greater digital financial inclusion expanded. As a result, less expensive dematerialized financial services were deployed to support those who have no or low access to formal banking services.

In 2019, the AfDB launched the ADFI fund with an initial endowment of $40 million from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Government of Luxembourg, and the French Development Agency: the African Digital Financial Inclusion Facility (ADFI).

By 20230 the fund hopes to devote $400 million to support the digital financial inclusion of 332 million people in Africa, 60% of whom are women.

India is recognized worldwide for having a thriving public digital payment system; a system that transformed governance, financial inclusion, and resilience for millions of people.  The financial support of the Asian giant should thus advance AfDB’s goal regarding digital financial inclusion.

Samira Njoya

Posted On mardi, 08 août 2023 16:27 Written by

As a new legal battle looms for the leader of the Patriotic Senegalese for Work, Ethics and Fraternity Party (Pastef), the government, fearing an outbreak like last June, has once again taken several security measures. These aim to limit the public mobilization in support of the politician.

The Ministry of Communication, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy has decided to again suspend mobile internet in the country. The Ministry explained that the measure is "due to the spreading of hateful and subversive messages relayed on social media in a context of disturbance to public order." It added that the suspension is "temporary during certain time slots." The suspension started on July 31, 2023.

Back on July 28, Ousmane Sonko, the head of the Pastef party, was arrested at his home in the evening on charges of "violent theft."

According to the Prosecutor of the Republic, the opposition politician "violently stole the mobile phone of a female gendarme whose vehicle had broken down near his home and immediately called on the people, through a subversive message disseminated on social networks, to stand ready."

Sonko, however, claimed he snatched the phone of one of the general intelligence officers who was posted outside his home since his trial in May 2023. According to him, the officer was filming him. The politician said he took the phone after asking the officer to unlock it and delete the pictures. 

In Dakar, where Ousmane Sonko began a hunger strike on Sunday, July 30, violent protests have again erupted in some districts of the capital. The government fears these demonstrations will be more violent than those of June, which followed the Pastef leader's conviction on June 1 for "corruption of youth."

At a press briefing on July 29, the Prosecutor of the Republic at the high court of Dakar, Abdou Karim Diop, revealed that Ousmane Sonko's arrest for theft only triggered action that was already imminent. He asserted that the opposition politician will be prosecuted on six other charges: calling for insurrection; undermining state security; criminal association; conspiracy against state authority; acts and maneuvers to compromise public security and create serious political disturbances, and criminal association linked to a terrorist enterprise.

Muriel Edjo

Posted On mardi, 01 août 2023 20:55 Written by
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