News (1356)
In Africa, financial inclusion has become a critical issue for many governments and financial regulators. Initiatives are being implemented to enhance access to financial services and make them available to a larger segment of the population.
Algeria's mobile payment interoperability project is now operational, the government announced on Monday, June 3. The initiative, facilitated by a new switch called "Switch mobile," allows customers of Algerian banks and Algeria Post to make instant interbank transfers and account-to-account payments using QR codes.
Speaking on the significance of these innovations, Finance Minister Laaziz Fayed stated that they "are the culmination of a work plan and a meticulous strategy launched by the public authorities as part of the implementation of the provisions of the monetary and banking law in its development aspect."
According to Laaziz Fayed, the launch of this service marks the second step in the process of modernizing and developing payment methods by providing a switch for payments and transfers that connects all bank applications and those of Algeria Post to mobile. It aligns with the National Electronic Payment Strategy, which aims to enhance financial inclusion in Algeria.
The government plans to further promote mobile payment services across the country through targeted campaigns. The launch is expected to significantly improve e-payment efficiency and security in Algeria.
According to official figures, the number of mobile transactions between January and March this year reached more than 13 million, with a value exceeding 9 billion Algerian dinars (66.9 million USD). The number of interbank cards and Algeria Post cards was estimated at over 17 million as of March 31, while the number of ATMs reached over 3,868, recording more than 45.9 million transactions for a total amount exceeding 859 billion Algerian dinars during the first quarter.
Samira Njoya
The Tunisian government views 5G technology as a means to accelerate the digital transformation of various economic sectors, including agriculture, education, and transportation. The executive has set the launch date for ultra-high-speed internet in the country for November 2024.
Tunisia and South Korea agreed to collaborate on the deployment of 5G technology, according to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Nizar Ben Neji, Tunisia's Minister of Communication Technologies, and his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jong Ho.
The signing took place on the sidelines of the Global ICT Leaders Forum in Seoul, held alongside the first Korea-Africa Summit on June 4-5.
This MoU aligns with Tunisia's recently unveiled 5G roadmap. The roadmap targets September 2024 for granting licenses and November 2024 for the commercial launch of 5G services. In addition, Tunisian telecom operators have already conducted preliminary tests of the next-generation mobile technology.
The 5G partnership aligns with Tunisia's "National Digital Transformation Strategy 2025," which prioritizes accelerating administrative digitization, securing cyberspace, ensuring digital sovereignty, and fostering trust for successful digitalization projects.
The implementation of 5G is expected to pave the way for the development of smart homes, smart cities, e-learning, e-government, 3D video, telemedicine, virtual and augmented reality, streaming services, artificial intelligence applications, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Isaac K. Kassouwi
Agriculture is a vital sector for African economies. With the digital transformation amidst a technological revolution on the continent, digitizing the agricultural sector has become crucial for many countries across the continent.
The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Digital Green, a U.S.-based non-profit focused on digitizing agriculture, to empower farmers through digital solutions.
The announcement, made by Digital Green on Facebook on June 2, outlines a five-year collaboration aimed at maximizing agricultural and socio-economic benefits for farmers, particularly women and youth, in the operational regions of both organizations.
The initiative will establish a knowledge-sharing platform built on FarmStack, an open-source data and content-sharing network. This platform will leverage APIs, URLs, and CKAN integrations for seamless information exchange.
"We're thrilled to announce that we have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Agency to maximize the agricultural and socio-economic benefits for farmers, women, and youth in the operational regions and Woredas of both organizations," Digital Green wrote on their Facebook page. "This five-year MOU aims to outline collaborative efforts in digital agriculture, youth job creation, women empowerment, market information systems, resource mobilization, and data sharing."
Ethiopia's digital transformation strategy includes digitizing the agricultural sector. The government partnered with local agritech firm Lersha to create digital profiles for over 1 million small-scale farmers, granting them access to various digital agriculture services.
"Together, we will implement initiatives to digitize farmer registries, enhance digital agricultural extension channels, and improve market access, ultimately benefiting farmers, women, and youth across Ethiopia," Digital Green added.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
In 2022, only 34% of the population in West and Central Africa had access to broadband connectivity, according to the World Bank. To improve this situation, regional initiatives are underway to increase connectivity rates in these regions.
The deployment of the Amilcar Cabral submarine telecommunications cable, aimed at connecting Cape Verde, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, is gradually taking shape. A delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by Mr. Sediko Douka, Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitalization, met with Mr. Nouha Traoré, Secretary General of the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and the Digital Economy of Guinea, on Monday, June 3, to discuss the development of this strategic project.
"The discussions focused on several key aspects of the project, including its regional significance and importance for ECOWAS integration, the technical milestones to be implemented, obtaining the necessary permits for cable deployment, and the financial aspects of the project," said the Guinean Ministry of Digital Economy in a press release.
The meeting occurred more than a year after the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the ECOWAS Commission for the project's development. Under this partnership, the six countries involved committed to participating in the evaluation of the project's technical, economic, financial, social, and environmental feasibility, as well as mobilizing the necessary resources for its implementation. The ECOWAS Commission will coordinate the project's execution by interacting with the beneficiary countries, donors, and other stakeholders.
Guinea and Gambia, through the West Africa Regional Digital Integration Program (WARDIP), have secured funding from the World Bank for the implementation of the crucial project estimated to cost over $90 million.
Once completed, the Amilcar Cabral submarine cable is expected to enhance international telecommunications capacity, improve access to digital services, and provide essential redundancy to ensure the resilience of high-speed Internet in the affected countries. The cable is also expected to improve the digital infrastructure necessary to attract foreign investment, create jobs, and support the development of the digital economy in the region.
After Asia and Europe, with expansions into the United Kingdom, Georgia, and Turkey, the Emirati startup OneClickDrive has decided to invest in a new continent. The company has chosen Morocco as the starting point for its African venture.
OneClickDrive, an Emirati car rental marketplace, is expanding its operations to Morocco, marking its first foray into the African market, a release dated June 3rd announces.
Based in Dubai, the startup is supporting its growth by investing in another continent after Europe and Asia. For its debut in the Moroccan market, it has launched services in eight cities: Agadir, Casablanca, Fez, Marrakech, Nador, Oujda, Rabat, and Tangier. Founded in 2015 by Mahesh Pagarani, OneClickDrive specializes in car rentals and leasing across a range of vehicles, from low-cost options to luxury cars.
In addition to its web platform, OneClickDrive offers a mobile app available on iOS and Android, which has already been downloaded more than 50,000 times according to Play Store data. After creating an account, users can access the start-up's fleet of over 5,000 vehicles.
OneClickDrive has partnered with more than 250 car rental providers in the cities where it operates to ensure its 100,000 monthly customers can find the right vehicle for their needs. It’s worth noting that African start-ups operating in the mobility segment raised $48 million in equity capital across 17 deals, according to data from the tech-focused investment fund Partech Africa.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
Africa, rich in natural resources and biodiversity, faces numerous major environmental challenges. Orange and its employees are committed to helping reduce these threats through various initiatives.
On Wednesday, June 5, Orange Middle East and Africa unveiled the Engage for Change program in collaboration with its employees to reinforce their ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). The program aims to positively impact society and the environment while enhancing team cohesion.
"This platform is a powerful tool for uniting our teams around shared values. Every initiative, every action taken by our employees demonstrates our collective ability to bring about significant change. We’re proud to see this commitment come to fruition and to witness the positive impact it generates," said Asma Ennaifer, Executive Director of CSR and Communication at Orange Middle East and Africa.
Through the interactive platform engageforchange.orange.com, employees are actively encouraged to participate in social and environmental initiatives that have a concrete and positive impact on our communities. These initiatives include local projects, partnerships, and eco-responsible actions. Encouraged actions encompass reducing carbon footprints, supporting local communities, promoting education and health, and engaging in sustainable projects.
Throughout the day on June 5, and across the region, several local initiatives were organized to demonstrate the tangible impact of the platform. In Mali, for example, a team of 200 Orange employee volunteers participated in the reforestation of an urban park dedicated to children by planting 1,000 trees, contributing to the fight against desertification and creating green spaces for the youth.
Additionally, other notable initiatives include awareness campaigns on the importance of recycling and electronic waste management, training workshops for young people on digital skills, and partnerships with local NGOs to support vulnerable populations. These collective efforts reflect Orange Middle East and Africa's commitment to playing an active and responsible role in sustainable development and the well-being of the communities it serves.
Samira Njoya
The development of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) holds significant importance for African development on several fronts as it can serve as as a catalyst for financial inclusion, allowing unbanked populations to access formal financial services. This, in turn, can spur economic growth by empowering individuals and small businesses with access to credit and other financial tools.
The National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) intends to launch a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) to enhance financial inclusion and provide a secure alternative to cash, Deputy Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye disclosed in a June 3 interview with The New Times Rwanda.
According to Hon. Hakuziyaremye, BNR worked with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of ICT and Innovation on a feasibility study to prepare for the launch of the CBDC. The digital currency is expected to promote innovation, improve cross-border payments, and support Rwanda's cashless policy.
The BNR plans to involve banks and consult the public to gather feedback and address concerns about financial system stability, data privacy, and system resilience. The public consultation, open until the end of June, will inform the next step in the CBDC development, which is the proof of concept.
According to the World Bank's Global Findex 2021, 71% of adults in developing economies now have a formal financial account, a significant increase from 42% a decade ago when the database was first published. Additionally, the proportion of adults making or receiving digital payments in these economies rose from 35% in 2014 to 57% in 2021. The significant increase in digital payment adoption in developing economies underscores the potential impact of Rwanda's planned digital currency. The introduction of a digital franc could leverage this momentum to further enhance financial inclusion and efficiency in payments, aligning with broader regional and global digital transformation goals.
Hikmatu Bilali
Africa is experiencing a rapid surge in mobile usage. This growth brings several mobile security challenges that threaten both users and businesses.
Gabon's Ministry of Digital Economy and New Information Technologies announced a key partnership with Turkish group iF Elektronik Ltd. on Monday, June 3rd. The agreement, reached after extensive negotiations, paves the way for the implementation of the Central Equipment Identity Register (EIR) technology in Gabon.
The project includes enhancing the security of mobile devices such as phones and establishing a competency center. It aims to increase government revenue through additional taxes, combat phone theft and cloning by reducing the illegal market, create 30 jobs for Gabonese engineers with skill transfer at the project's inception, and eliminate smuggling and counterfeiting of mobile equipment.
The EIR will be fully funded by iF Elektronik Ltd., with no cost to the Gabonese government. It is expected to generate $38 million annually, with $26 million in tax revenue and $12 million in service fees. This initiative aligns with the Gabonese government's goal of promoting the development of the digital economy and strengthening the security of electronic communications.
The project's implementation is scheduled to begin within three months of signing the memorandum of understanding. This strategic partnership will enable Gabon to enhance the security of electronic communications, protect users from fraud and theft, improve the quality of telecommunications services, and offer a better user experience while stimulating innovation and economic growth in the information and communication technology sector.
Samira Njoya
African startups are critical drivers of economic and social progress across the continent. To unlock their full potential, they need a supportive environment, including access to funding, mentorship, and the resources they need to thrive.
AfriLabs, a pan-African network of technology innovation hubs, announced on Tuesday, June 4, a memorandum of understanding with the Korea-Africa Foundation (KAF), an initiative of the Korean government aimed at supporting partnerships with the African continent. This partnership aims to promote innovation and economic prosperity across Africa by supporting startups.
"At AfriLabs, we're dedicated to unlocking Africa's full potential and generating wealth through strategic alliances. This partnership unlocks a treasure trove of opportunities for startups, granting them access to a global network, invaluable resources, and unparalleled industry knowledge," AfriLabs stated on X.
As part of the partnership, AfriLabs and KAF will implement projects leveraging their respective expertise to foster a dynamic ecosystem that cultivates talent and promotes a strong entrepreneurial spirit. The goal is to empower the next generation of African innovators and entrepreneurs to build sustainable development.
The partnership comes on the eve of the Korea-Africa Young Startup Forum, which will be held today Wednesday, June 5, in Seoul. This event aims to strengthen cooperation between Korea and African nations by bringing together investors, startups, and support organizations from both continents.
The partnership is expected to enable startups within the AfriLabs network to benefit from Korea's digital experience. The country boasts an ultra-advanced technological environment that can serve as a model for African entrepreneurs. By combining their strengths, AfriLabs and KAF are confident that this partnership will significantly contribute to transforming Africa into a prosperous and innovative continent.
Samira Njoya
In a bid to establish Kenya as a leading tech hub in Africa, Kenyan authorities are forging multiple partnerships with various stakeholders from the United States, China, and South Korea.
Kenya has secured $238 million from Korea Eximbank to invest in the Konza Technopolis smart city. The agreement was finalized on the sidelines of the Korea-Africa Summit 2024, held on Tuesday, June 4, and Wednesday, June 5, in Ilsan and Seoul, South Korea.
"The government of Kenya and Korea Exim Bank, represented by Executive Director and Board Member H.E. Hwang Kiyeon, signed two funding agreements amounting to US$ 238M for the financing of Konza Digital Media City project to establish a cutting edge film and creative economy hub at Konza Technopolis," stated Korir Sing'Oei [photo, left], Kenya's Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Previously known as Konza Technology City, Konza Technopolis was launched by the Kenyan government in 2012. It is part of the Kenya Vision 2030 national development plan, which aims, among other goals, to position the country as a technological leader in Africa. Supported by the World Bank through the International Finance Corporation, this smart city project includes advanced ICT infrastructure, innovation centers, and digital training programs.
Upon taking office in 2022, President William Ruto sought to revitalize the Konza Technopolis project. "The administration will strengthen Konza Technopolis to bring together industry, academic institutions and other innovators to co-invest in emerging technologies to create high-quality jobs that leverage on artificial intelligence, robotics and other technologies and thus enhance our regional and global competitiveness," he said in 2022.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
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Digital inclusion is essential for achieving sustainable development goals and ensuring a prosperous future. In this context, Lesotho, in collaboration with international partners, is rolling out initiatives to bridge the digital divide.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Lesotho's Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MICSTI) have joined forces to launch a groundbreaking model for e-government service points. This initiative aims to accelerate digital transformation and enhance access to public services through digital channels.
The program empowers micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to offer essential digital services within their communities. This approach addresses the digital divide, promoting greater digital inclusion across Lesotho. Developed by the UNDP Accelerator Lab as a pilot project, the model aligns with UNDP's broader strategy to expand digital access nationwide.
By establishing e-government service points, rural and remote communities will gain the ability to access vital government services like administrative transactions, digital payments, and information services. This eliminates the need for long journeys to traditional service providers, often located in distant areas.
This significant step forward aligns with the government's commitment to provide equitable access to public services for all citizens, particularly those in underserved regions. Minister of Communications, Science, and Technology Nthati Moorosi (pictured) announced plans to designate at least 40 schools and 10 postal service locations as e-government service centers.
The establishment of these service points is expected to bring a multitude of benefits. It will stimulate the local economy by empowering small businesses and creating new employment opportunities. Additionally, it will enhance public access to essential digital services, fostering financial inclusion and community empowerment. Furthermore, the initiative is expected to reduce the time and cost associated with accessing government services, ultimately improving the quality of life for citizens.
Samira Njoya
As the African Union's Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (2020-2030) underscores, leveraging digital technologies is crucial for driving economic growth, improving governance, and enhancing the quality of life. The focus of African governments on AI exemplifies this strategic vision, potentially leading to increased investment in technology and infrastructure across Africa.
Zambia has finalized its Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy to drive economic growth. It is set to launch within two months, Science and Technology Minister Felix Mutati announced.
Speaking at the Copperbelt Agricultural Mining and Industrial Networking Enterprise, held from May 28 to 30, in Kitwe, Mutati highlighted AI's potential to help Zambia achieve its target of producing 3 million tonnes of copper annually through improved exploration. "AI will bring significant economic benefits," Mutati said, noting it will create jobs and expedite mineral exploration.
To prepare for an AI-driven future, Zambia will host an AI Conference next month. Compu-Connect Education will organize “The Future of AI in Africa” Global Summit and Expo from June 25 to June 27. Mutati emphasized the conference's role in exposing Zambia to the latest technological innovations and helping the public understand AI's impact.
According to the “ZAMBIA Inclusive Digital Economy Status Report” 2022, digital technologies are central to Zambia’s development strategy, as shown by their integration into national and sectoral plans and policies. The Seventh National Development Plan (7NDP) highlights enhancing ICTs as one of its key outcomes. This includes strengthening the legal framework, improving ICT infrastructure, and providing electronic services.
This initiative aligns with Zambia’s commitment to inclusive governance. By embracing AI, the country aims to enhance productivity, drive economic growth, and bridge the digital divide, setting a precedent for other African nations.
Hikmatu Bilali
The Malagasy government is committed to ensuring the country benefits from the technological revolution. Alongside infrastructure development, it is also focusing on training a highly skilled workforce.
Madagascar is taking a step towards becoming a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) within the Indian Ocean region. On Friday, May 31, Malagasy Minister of Digital Development, Posts and Telecommunications Tahina Razafindramalo signed a partnership agreement in Marrakech, Morocco, with Professor Serge Miranda of the University of Côte d'Azur and École Supérieure des Technologies Industrielles Avancées (ESTIA) in France. The agreement launches a feasibility study for the establishment of an International Institute of Applied Artificial Intelligence for the Indian Ocean region.
According to the Malagasy Ministry of Digital Development, "the creation of this institute will stimulate innovation and economic growth in Madagascar, while providing increased opportunities in education and quality employment. This initiative also demonstrates that public-private partnerships can be beneficial for emerging countries."
The project involves a collaboration between DATUM Consulting - Groupe ArkeUp, ESTIA, and the Ministry of Digital Development. Aligned with Madagascar's Digital Strategic Plan (PSN) 2023-2028, the institute aims to position the country as a key player in AI within the sub-region. The PSN highlights a critical deficit of 40,000 technicians needed for successful digital transformation.
The feasibility study will assess the specific needs, required resources, and key implementation steps for the institute. It will also evaluate the economic, educational, and social impacts of the initiative. This evaluation will consider the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI into various economic and social sectors across Madagascar. This ambitious project aspires to not only bridge the technical skills gap but also establish Madagascar as a center of excellence in AI for the Indian Ocean region.
At the first edition of Gitex Africa, the two entities formed an alliance to collaborate in the digital sector in Senegal. They signed another agreement a year later for the same purpose.
Sénégal Numérique SA (SENUM SA), the public company responsible for managing digital infrastructure in Senegal, and Elm, a Saudi company specializing in digital solutions, signed a memorandum of understanding on Thursday, May 30, during the second edition of Gitex Africa in Marrakech, Morocco (May 29 to 31).
"The memorandum of understanding, signed by Al-Ameen Al-Hazmi [photo, left], Director of Integrated Solutions at Elm, and Cheikh Bakhoum [photo, right], Director General of Sénégal Numérique, outlines the collaboration between Elm and Sénégal Numérique for the creation and operation of a digital archiving center. They will also seek financial partners to fund the project and develop IT infrastructure for the benefit of Senegalese government agencies," explained he communiqué published by the Saudi firm on Friday, May 30.
This partnership aligns with SENUM SA's objectives for 2025, as outlined in the "Sénégal numérique 2025" strategy document. It will facilitate knowledge exchange between Saudi Arabia and Senegal and stimulate the tech sector to become a driving force in both countries.
This is not the first memorandum signed by the two entities. Last June, during the first edition of the Gitex Africa tech show, also held in Marrakech, they signed a partnership agreement under which the Saudi firm agreed to assist SENUM SA in using technology to boost economic growth, improve public services, empower Senegalese citizens, and promote digital inclusion.
Speaking on the new partnership, Majid bin Saad Al Arifi, official spokesperson and Senior Vice President of Marketing at Elm, stated: "We remain committed to collaborative projects and promoting innovation and growth in the digital sector. We also hope that this partnership will yield tangible economic and social benefits by driving development through innovative technical solutions and Elm's capabilities to enable a digitally connected life."
Adoni Conrad Quenum