News (1573)
The Nigerian government is accelerating its plans to make telecom services accessible throughout the country. This initiative involves collaboration with private sector companies and international partners to deploy a network of fiber optic cable, stretching 95,000 kilometers nationwide.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) plans to lower the percentage of unconnected Nigerians in rural areas from the current 61% to 20% by 2027 . The target was announced by Aminu Maida, the executive vice-chairman of the regulatory body, during the 6th edition of the Policy Implementation Assistance Forum held in Lagos on Wednesday, July 10.
"We will create a supportive environment for innovation, ensure robust infrastructure, unlock investment in critical sectors and stimulate economic growth," stated Maida .
This initiative is part of the Nigerian government's broader efforts to provide widespread access to telecommunications services. The plan includes deploying 95,000 km of fiber optic cable across the country in partnership with the World Bank and the European Union. Additionally, the government is exploring satellite solutions to achieve nationwide coverage through the national operator (NIGCOMSAT) or private operators like Starlink .
As of March 31, Nigeria had 219.3 million mobile phone subscribers and 163.8 million internet subscribers, according to official statistics. However, these figures may be inflated due to the prevalence of Nigerians owning multiple SIM cards, which are counted individually. In 2022, the NCC estimated that nearly 35 million Nigerians lacked access to telecom services.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
Internet usage increased to approximately 67% of the global population in 2023, up from 54% in 2019, according to the Broadband Commission. Universal connectivity is not yet a reality, but various organizations are implementing solutions to achieve this goal.
The GSM Association (GSMA) announced the launch of a coalition on Wednesday, July 10, to facilitate access to Internet-enabled mobile phones. Named the GSMA Handset Affordability Coalition, its goal is to enable the world's poorest populations, approximately 3 billion people, to maximize their potential in the global digital economy.
The new coalition comprises leading global mobile operators, suppliers, players in the mobile phone ecosystem, international organizations, and financial institutions such as the World Bank Group and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
"Mobile has helped billions of people worldwide to play an active role in our increasingly digital world, but the cost of entry can still be too high for many on low incomes. [...] By building creative solutions to bring mobile internet into the hands of those who need it the most, we believe we can make real strides towards closing the Usage Gap and help millions more maximise their potential by getting online," said Mats Granryd, Director General of the GSMA.
According to the GSMA, about 3 billion people, or 38% of the global population, live in areas covered by the Internet but do not use it for various reasons. The lack of digital skills and relevant content, online security issues, Internet access, and affordability of Internet-enabled mobile phones are among the reasons behind the Internet usage gap.
Furthermore, the International Telecommunication Union explains the delay in fixed broadband in Africa by the population's preference for mobile phones, which are seen as more flexible and less expensive. Indeed, the cost of 2 gigabits on the continent was 4.5% of the gross national income per capita per month in 2023, far from the 14.8% cost of fixed broadband, according to the report "The State of Broadband 2024: Leveraging AI for Universal Connectivity" published in June 2024 by the Broadband Commission, a special body of the ITU.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
The Malagasy government has outlined an ambitious plan to harness the power of the technological revolution. They are actively pursuing a range of initiatives aimed at achieving substantial progress in a short timeframe.
On Wednesday, July 10, Malagasy Minister of Digital Development, Posts and Telecommunications (MNDPT), Tahina Razafindramalo, welcomed a delegation from Onepoint and Global Business Network International, two French companies specializing in digital technology, for a working meeting.
According to the ministry's statement, discussions focused on several key topics, including the interoperability of information systems and data used by the government, the implementation of e-governance, and the impacts of digital transformation on the Malagasy government and its citizens.
The meeting aligns with the government's ongoing efforts to strengthen the digital sector through innovative technological partnerships. Recently, the government visited South Korea to meet potential partners capable of supporting the digitalization of the agricultural sector, demonstrating its commitment to modernizing various sectors through technology.
Following the meeting, a partnership was announced with Onepoint to organize an event on July 11 and 12 titled "Mastering Data to Transform Madagascar." This event brings together representatives from both the public and private sectors to discuss the importance of data management in the country's digital transformation.
Global Business Network International, established in October 2004, specializes in computer programming and assisting companies in their digital transitions. Onepoint is known for its unique approach that combines technology with human intelligence to support its clients' digital transformation. These future collaborations promise to bring innovative and sustainable solutions to the digital development of Madagascar.
Samira Njoya
Africa, with its substantial untapped digital economic potential, stands to benefit greatly from strategic investments in technology. Such initiatives are crucial for enhancing competitiveness and fostering economic growth in the 21st-century global economy.
The Nigerian Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) and Dimension Data, a South African IT and internet solutions provider, signed a one-year internet service agreement, on July 5. The agreement was signed by Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, NIGCOMSAT's CEO, and Olugbenga Olabiyi, Dimension Data's country director.
“In line with the aspirations of the Hon. Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, to rejig the nation’s economy through digital transformation, the Nigerian Communication Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd, has once again signed a partnership agreement with Dimension Data, a leading IT solutions company, internet solutions service provider,” revealed NIGCOMSAT in a press release dated July 5
Under the deal, NIGCOMSAT will provide Dimension Data with internet services on the NigComSat-1R network for one year.
This partnership follows similar agreements Nigcomsat signed in June with satellite telecom providers, including Hotspot Network Limited, a leading company specializing in rural connectivity solutions, and telecom giant Infratel, to enhance rural connectivity.
The initiatives align with Nigcomsat's ambition to become a leading provider of satellite communications infrastructure in Nigeria and Africa, supporting the government's project to bring broadband to every corner of the country.
Hikmatu Bilali
Madagascar's customs services have launched a strategic plan for their digital transformation, partnering with various stakeholders to meet their objectives within the set timelines. This initiative aims to modernize customs operations, enhance efficiency, and streamline processes through the adoption of advanced technologies.
Last week, the Directorate General of Customs (DGD) in Madagascar inaugurated a data warehouse, a database management system designed for data storage and analysis. Funded by the Korea Customs Service, this infrastructure will enable long-term storage, combination, and archiving of data from various sources.
"Malagasy customs is progressing towards a performance-driven process where KPIs or key performance indicators are the guiding principles for the future of the administration. [...] We envisioned a future where customs decisions, including value assessments, temporary admissions, tariff groupings, and advance rulings, would be validated through a digital and rapid process designed to better serve users," said Ernest Zafivanona Lainkana, Director General of Malagasy Customs.
This initiative is part of the modernization and digitization of Madagascar's customs services, following a partnership signed on August 30, 2022, between the government of the Republic of Korea and the DGD. The aim is to support the DGD's strategic plan (31 projects) by funding three projects with a total of $5,163,000 over four years.
The data warehouse's capacity will allow the centralization and consolidation of all sensitive and strategic customs data over a period of 50 years. Additionally, the data center housing the infrastructure ensures continuous operation of new applications and has the potential to accommodate additional racks and servers.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
Kenya, in its pursuit of technological partners to aid its digital transformation, is turning to international collaborations and strategic investments to achieve its goals. Germany stands out as a potential key partner in this endeavor.
German company Lufthansa Industry Solutions, specializing in IT consulting and systems integration, has recently announced its intention to invest in Kenya. On July 9, a delegation led by CEO Jörn Messner (photo, right) and Chief Commercial Officer Joern-Matthias Derrer met with John Kipchumba Tanui (photo, left), Principal Secretary for Information Technology, Communications, and Digital Economy of Kenya, to discuss potential collaborations.
"They are exploring Digital investment opportunities in Kenya, seeking potential partnerships and planning to establish their center in the country, joining major players like AWS and Microsoft. Kenya is actively encouraging such investments to boost economic growth and innovation," John Kipchumba Tanui announced on X.
Lufthansa Industry Solutions, a subsidiary of the German national airline Lufthansa, assists clients in their digital transformation. Their expertise includes implementing integrated flight folders (iFF) for pilots, digitizing documentation processes for airlines, providing private 5G networks for businesses, and more.
The proposed partnership with Kenya could strengthen local technological infrastructure and enhance the country’s digital capabilities. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to position Kenya as a regional tech hub, supporting its vision to become a digital innovation center in East Africa.
Samira Njoya
Douala's city services are going digital, and now it's the moto-taxi industry's turn. This push to modernize the transportation system aims to improve safety, streamline operations, and make things easier for both drivers and passengers.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, July 3rd, the Douala City Council announced a digital registration program for the city's moto-taxi drivers. This initiative aims to combat insecurity and help residents distinguish legitimate moto-taxis from potential criminals.
"We've collaborated with the administration to ensure a smooth digital registration process for our members," said Simplice Tabate, head of moto-taxis in Douala's Fourth District. "Following this launch, we'll replicate this approach in the Fourth District and other areas."
This program aligns with Cameroon's Digital Plan 2020-2025, which promotes digital technology as a driver of economic and social development. Douala has actively embraced this strategy, having digitized its parking system in November 2021. Earlier this year, the city launched a digital platform to attract investment from Cameroonian expatriates into the economic capital.
Starting July 11, moto-taxi drivers can register by presenting their national ID card, a valid category A driver's license, and their vehicle registration card. Inspections to verify registrations will commence on September 15.
The digital registration program aims to enhance safety and order within Douala. The platform will create a verified database of drivers, ensuring only authorized individuals operate moto-taxis in the city. This initiative reflects Douala's commitment to utilizing digital technology for improved public services and urban management.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
Supporting and establishing youth-led tech startups can boost economic activities in finance, agriculture, and healthcare, contributing to overall growth on the continent. Such moves create jobs, address unemployment among Africa's youth, and provide livelihoods.
The UNDP and the Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation launched the first Fintech Timbuktoo Hub in Lagos, Nigeria on July 9. This facility aims to drive innovation and growth within Africa's fintech ecosystem.
The moment is here!
— UNDP Nigeria (@UNDPNigeria) July 9, 2024
We are live at the launch of the premier #timbuktoo Fintech Hub.
Today, we are revolutionizing the future of fintech in Africa.
Join us: https://t.co/olFgxgSmlV pic.twitter.com/9i0oLVlBh8
Speaking during the launch, Ms Ahunna Eziakonwa, the UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Africa,said: “Africa is the place where ideas comes from to unite the world. Our innovators are finding solutions to the most pressing global problems. timbuktoo is about changing the way development works and investing in young talents. I invite you all to join and begin to see Africa from the lens of opportunity."
Timbuktoo is a partnership between the UNDP, African governments, and the private sector, positioned as the world's largest initiative supporting Africa's innovation ecosystem and reshaping financial technology and development across the continent. Launched in January 2024 at the World Economic Forum in Davos and headquartered in Kigali, Rwanda, the initiative leverages collective power to create scalable and impactful conditions across Africa. Timbuktoo aims to mobilize and invest US$1 billion in capital to transform 100 million livelihoods and create 10 million dignified new jobs across African countries.
This hub, located at UNDP's Innovation Center in Lagos, isthe first of eight tech hubs, with additional hubs planned for 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda (Healthtech), Accra, Ghana (Agritech), and Lusaka, Zambia (Minetech). Forty-two young startups from 31 African countries have been selected for the first cohort.
The launch is pivotal to innovation and financial inclusion across Africa. It will serve fintech entrepreneurs, investors, and experts, offering collaborative workspaces, mentorship programs, and advanced technology to support startups across Africa in building impactful solutions.
Africa, with 60% of its population under 25, presents a fertile ground for innovation despite a low unique mobile subscriber penetration rate of 43% in 2022, according to the 2023 ‘Mobile Economy Sub-Saharan Africa’ report by GSMA. GSMA projects that by 2025, 634 million Sub-Saharan Africans (52%) will subscribe to mobile services, driving digital transformation.By nurturing local talent and fostering cross-border collaborations, the Timbuktoo Fintech Hub will play a pivotal role in shaping Africa's financial technology future, reflecting the UNDP's commitment to sustainable development through technology.
Hikmatu Bilali
The Burkina Faso government is stepping up its efforts to improve cybersecurity. They're launching several initiatives to make their digital infrastructure more resilient and protect sensitive data from cyberattacks.
urkina Faso's Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT) unanimously adopted the Information Systems Security Act on Tuesday, July 9. This new law establishes a legal framework to protect information systems, aiming to reduce vulnerabilities for public administrations and economic development units.
According to the Minister of Digital Transition, Posts, and Electronic Communications, Aminata Zerbo/Sabane (photo), the law is particularly important in the ongoing digitization process in the country. “We are firmly committed to dematerializing administrative acts and procedures to modernize, enhance productivity, transparency, and accessibility for all users. Further initiatives are underway to make digital technology a lever for our socio-economic development,” she stated.
This move reflects the government's focus on strengthening national cybersecurity amidst rapid digital transformation. The country is experiencing a surge in electronic communication services and cyberattacks, further amplified by the ongoing security crisis.
The law strengthens the National Agency for Information Systems Security (ANSSI), established in 2013 to address cyber vulnerabilities. It will not only support ANSSI's operations but also ensure its effective collaboration with other technical actors within the digital ecosystem.
The adoption of this Act marks a significant step for Burkina Faso in securing its digital infrastructure. By enhancing the country's cyber resilience, the law aims to build a safe and reliable digital environment for both citizens and economic actors.
Samira Njoya
The development of an indigenous blockchain is crucial for Africa. By controlling its blockchain infrastructure, African countries can ensure data security and reduce dependency on foreign technology to promote technological advancement.
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) is considering developing an indigenous blockchain named Nigerium to protect national data and enhance security. NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Abdullahi, announced this during a meeting with delegates from the University of Hertfordshire Law School.
During the meeting, the university delegation, led by Chanu Kuppuswamy, emphasized the importance of Nigeria controlling its blockchain to avoid foreign influence. “We want NITDA to consider developing an indigenous blockchain on which we can now think of putting all the public service and the land registries of the 36 states and Abuja,” Kuppuswamy said.
The delegation also suggested the creation of a "data embassy" to ensure digital continuity and protect data. This server, hosted in a third-party country but regulated by Nigerian law, would safeguard the nation's data. Additionally, the need for collaboration between government departments was highlighted to harmonize blockchain services.
A 2021 report by Enhancing Financial Innovation & Access (EFInA), a Nigerian Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) organization, reveals that Blockchain has the potential to increase Nigeria’s GDP by $29 billion by 2030, highlighting the significant economic impact of the adoption of a secure blockchain in the country.
This initiative falls in line with the country’s adoption of a national blockchain policy in 2023 and follows NITDA's plans to establish blockchain research centers across Nigeria, underscoring the country's commitment to leveraging blockchain technology for national development.
Hikmatu Bilali
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By addressing crucial infrastructure gaps, rural communities gain access to global economic connectivity, digital services, and opportunities in digital education and e-commerce. These advancements establish the groundwork for sustainable socio-economic development in Africa, positioning these communities on the global stage.
Zambia inaugurated its first smart village project in Namwala, Southern District on July 5. Sponsored by Huawei Technologies, a leading Chinese firm, the initiative includes a communication tower and a solar power system designed to power numerous homes, marking a pioneering step in Zambia's rural development.
"We extend our sincere gratitude to Huawei Technologies Zambia for their support, which aligns with our government's digital agenda to foster rural development," stated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema during the project's launch.
Deeply honored to have been the guest... - Hakainde Hichilema | Facebook
The launch event included the unveiling of a mini-solar plant equipped with solar panels as part of the Namwala project, underscoring Huawei's commitment to sustainable development. At the ceremony, Huawei Technologies Zambia also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Zambian government to establish 100 smart villages across the country's 10 provinces.
This initiative can accelerate the Zambian government's progress toward achieving the National Electronic Government Plan (NEGP) 2023-2026, which aims to leverage digital technologies for efficient public service delivery, with key focus areas including digital infrastructure and capacity building.
Zambia's progress in digital transformation has led to an improved ranking on the E-Government Development Index (EGDI), moving from 148th to 131st out of 193 countries between 2020 and 2022. It further reinforces Zambia's commitment to enhancing digital infrastructure and bridging the digital divide, contributing to its ongoing progress in e-governance and rural development.
Hikmatu Bilali
Affordable internet access is one of the top priorities of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite efforts by organizations and governments across Africa, the high cost of internet remains a significant barrier to widespread use.
Africa remains the continent with the highest fixed internet costs in the world, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). On the continent, users pay five times more than the global average for 5 gigabits (5 GB) of data. Globally, the price of broadband internet services averages 2.9% of monthly gross national income (GNI) per capita, while in Africa, it stands at a staggering 14.8%. The Broadband Commission, a specialized ITU body, considers internet costs affordable if they are equal to or below 2% of GNI.
In its June 2024 report, "The State of Broadband 2024: Leveraging AI for Universal Connectivity," the Broadband Commission attributes Africa's high internet costs to low purchasing power. "The lack of financial means remains a major barrier to internet access, especially in low-income economies. A significant gap persists between high-income economies and the rest of the world," the report states.
Beyond the issue of low purchasing power, the high cost of internet in Africa is also due to insufficient telecom infrastructure, which forces some markets to charge high prices to recoup investments. "Fixed broadband networks are very expensive to deploy, maintain, and upgrade, depending on the geography and extent of the territory to be covered," the ITU explains.
The Broadband Commission's October 2019 report, "Connecting Africa Through Broadband: A strategy for doubling connectivity by 2021 and reaching universal access by 2030," estimated that approximately $100 billion is needed to fully cover the continent with internet by 2030. Africa's reliance on foreign cables, with high international transit costs, remains a challenge for accessible fixed broadband on the continent.
This situation negatively impacts small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa, as the internet is essential in the digital transformation era. According to a survey by the International Finance Corporation and the World Bank, internet use for business purposes among 3,325 microenterprises in seven African countries averaged 7%, ranging from 24% in South Africa to 1% in Rwanda.
The Broadband Commission's primary goal is to make broadband affordable in developing countries by 2025. While achieving this goal in Africa next year remains uncertain, the commission notes that "ICT services tracked by the ITU have become more affordable in 2023 than ever before."
In 2022, the cost of fixed internet in Africa was 16.3% of monthly GNI per capita, down from 18.3% in 2021 and nearly 483% in 2009. Despite these improvements, much work remains to make internet access truly affordable and widespread across the continent.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
Digital transformation is advancing rapidly across Africa. To fully embrace this progress, the continent needs to address two key areas: improve internet coverage and equip the population with digital skills.
The Algerian Ministry of Interior, Local Authorities, and Territory Planning has signed a partnership agreement with the public company Algérie Télécom. Unveiled on Thursday, July 4, this collaboration aims to connect all primary schools in Algeria.
Specifically, the incumbent operator will provide the targeted schools with high-speed internet connectivity and fixed-line telephone services. Priority will be given to schools located in low-income municipalities.
This initiative aligns with the Algerian government's efforts to develop an "information society" through infrastructure, telecommunications resources, and the widespread use of ICT in all economic sectors. In May, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune instructed the implementation of measures to improve the quality and coverage of internet services across the country.
The partnership is expected to create "a more efficient educational environment nationwide." It will enable Algerian primary school students and teachers to access online educational resources, conduct research, learn, and communicate more effectively. It will also help introduce school children to digital skills at an early age.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
Tackling healthcare disparities intensified by conflict and displacement is crucial for building long-term resilience and self-sufficiency among refugees. Utilizing advanced technology allows for the provision of immediate medical aid, enhancing healthcare accessibility a vital element in the broader framework of African development and stability.
U.S. messaging platform Gupshup, Meta (formerly Facebook), the Sudan Medical Specialization Board, and Shabaka, a consulting and research organization dedicated to humanitarian issues, have jointly launched a telemedicine chatbot. The initiative, announced by Gupshup on July 3, aims to deliver medical assistance to Sudanese refugees.
“We are honored to be part of this humanitarian project that aims to provide essential healthcare services to Sudanese refugees in need. By leveraging the power of conversational AI and the reach of WhatsApp, we can make a significant impact on the lives of these individuals who have faced immense challenges,” said Beerud Sheth, Founder & CEO of Gupshup.
The chatbot, accessible via WhatsApp, targets refugees in Egypt, Eritrea, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Djibouti, and other neighboring countries. The telemedicine service offers a secure, regulatory-compliant platform supporting Arabic and English, with additional languages planned.
According to Gupshup, the project aims to meet the urgent healthcare needs of about 800,000 Sudanese refugees with limited access to medical services. The chatbot allows patients to connect with healthcare providers, who then route them to a triage team for assessment before linking them to one of over 18 specialty doctors.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reveals that the ongoing conflict has left nearly 25 million people in Sudan in need of humanitarian assistance, with severe shortages of food, water, medicine, and fuel affecting millions. This underscores the importance of scalable, tech-driven solutions in humanitarian aid efforts to support vulnerable populations in crises effectively.
Hikmatu Bilali