Burkina Faso, like many other African countries, is currently working on digitizing services for citizens. The executive's goal is to fully digitize administrative procedures by 2025.

Burkina Faso's public administration is poised for a digital overhaul, with the Council of Ministers approving a decree on Wednesday to streamline the deployment of robust information systems and high-quality digital platforms.

This initiative, championed by Digital Transition Minister Aminata Zerbo/Sabane, targets a more efficient and effective public service. The decree aims to reduce processing times, facilitate citizen access to services, and ultimately deliver user-friendly, high-quality platforms.

The new measures address longstanding issues that have hampered past digitization efforts, including inadequate pre-launch testing, platform incompatibility, and poor communication between government departments.

This aligns with the National Strategy for the Modernization of Public Administration (SNMAP) 2021-2025, which envisions a model public administration by 2025, underpinned by republican values and focused on serving citizens.

An evaluation by the Ministry of Digital Transition in February revealed that, as of then, 83.97% of administrative procedures were undergoing digitization. The new decree is expected to tighten management of platform rollouts, ensuring the quality of e-services, user data protection, and ultimately, a more secure and efficient public administration.

Samira Njoya

 

Posted On lundi, 13 mai 2024 08:44 Written by

French telecoms group Orange is active in several sectors in Africa. It has decided to enter the cybersecurity sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo with the assistance of its local subsidiary.

Orange RDC, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) subsidiary of French telecoms giant Orange, and Orange Cyberdefense, the group's dedicated cybersecurity unit, signed a partnership agreement on Thursday to enhance cybersecurity in the central African nation.

Under that agreement, Orange Cyberdefense is rolling out three services: “Microsoc” for securing various computer networks nationwide, “Penetration Testing” for vulnerability detection, and “Cyber Diag” for evaluating an organization’s cyber resilience and suggesting solutions in the event of security breaches.

The partnership comes amidst Africa's rapid digital transformation, where cybersecurity has become a crucial consideration. The International Telecommunication Union's 2020 "Global Cybersecurity Index" ranked the DRC 40th on the continent, surpassing only the Central African Republic but lagging behind South Sudan. SInce then, the DRC has made strides under President Félix Tshisekedi's leadership. Notably, the country ratified the African Union (AU) convention on cybersecurity and personal data protection in April 2023.

Africa’s cyberspace as a whole is vulnerable, according to a June 2023 Kearney report titled "Cybersecurity in Africa: Call to Action." “Africa’s cyber resilience is low, particularly around strategy, governance and operational entities and cross-sector cooperation,” the report finds.  

Adoni Conrad Quenum

 

Posted On lundi, 13 mai 2024 08:41 Written by

Morocco is firmly committed to digital transformation. Recognizing that human resources are the cornerstone of this endeavor, the country is implementing initiatives to modernize educational programs by integrating digital skills from an early age.

The University of Moulay Ismail signed a partnership agreement with Cisco Network Academy, a global online learning platform offered by American technology giant Cisco Systems, on Wednesday, May 8.

This collaboration, established during a visit by a Cisco Network Academy delegation to Morocco, is designed to equip students and faculty with in-demand digital skills in critical areas like computer networking, artificial intelligence, programmable infrastructure, and cybersecurity.

The initiative aligns perfectly with Morocco's "Pacte Esri 2030," the National Plan for Accelerating the Transformation of the Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation Ecosystem by 2030. This strategic plan emphasizes preparing students with the necessary personal, cross-disciplinary, and digital skills to meet the evolving demands of the job market, reflecting both royal directives and the global digital revolution.

The partnership builds upon a tripartite agreement signed last December between the Moroccan Ministry of Higher Education, the Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, and Cisco.

Furthermore, this new collaboration aims to strengthen the training and certification programs offered through the "Centres code 212" hosted by Moroccan universities. Students and teachers will gain free, unlimited access to Cisco's partner training programs, along with support in preparing for industry-recognized certifications.

By prioritizing youth training and upskilling the population in digital capabilities, Morocco seeks to cultivate a robust pool of graduates equipped with specialized knowledge in innovative fields. This initiative aims to accelerate the nation's digital transformation journey and position Morocco as an attractive destination for both domestic and international investors.

Samira Njoya

Posted On vendredi, 10 mai 2024 15:06 Written by

At the 2nd Digital Entrepreneurship and Artificial Intelligence Fair in May 2023, the Benin government unveiled its project for an AI-based conversational.

 Benin is embarking on a project to develop artificial intelligence (AI) systems that prioritize local languages. This collaborative effort brings together the Information and Digital Systems Agency (ASIN),the Ministry of Digital Affairs and Digitalization, Sèmè City, and iSHEERO, a group specializing in data science and AI expertise.

The data collection phase for local languages was launched on Wednesday, May 8th and the gathered information will be used to train large language models (LLMs) powered by AI.

This national initiative aligns with Benin's National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence and Big Data, adopted in January 2023. The strategy aims to harness the potential of AI in various sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, and tourism. Additionally, it seeks to position Benin as a leader in AI development within West Africa.

A March 2024 report, "AI and the Future of Government: Unexpected Effects and Critical Challenges", published by the Moroccan think tank Policy Paper, highlights the challenges faced by countries with limited language data when implementing AI models. Benin falls into this category, and this participatory campaign aims to address the potential digital divide arising from AI applications.

"The efficacy of these AI technologies hinges on the availability and quality of data, requiring datasets (corpus) that are not only extensive but also diverse and representative, to ensure their applicability across a wide spectrum of languages and contexts," the report emphasizes.

Adoni Conrad Quenum

 

Posted On jeudi, 09 mai 2024 12:11 Written by

Digital solutions tailored for MSMEs can empower businesses across Africa to leverage online platforms, expand their market reach, and drive economic growth by creating job opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship.

Tappi has partnered with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) to launch the Sukuma Biz initiative.

The initiative, announced on May 2, is set to provide tailored digital services to KNCCI’s 30,000 business members to enhance their online credibility and identity. This digital commerce solution for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) enables business owners to easily customize their online presence through a user-friendly app, seamlessly integrating with Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and Instagram Ads using airtime credit or mobile money.

KNCCI is one of Kenya’s most trusted industry bodies and with its extensive network of local businesses, they’re an ideal partner to accelerate our mission of empowering MSMEs to effectively establish strong reputations of their own in an online setting,” said Griffith.

For a monthly fee of KES500 (US$4), KNCCI members gain exclusive benefits, including a personalized business landing page on tappi’s platform adorned with the KNCCI logo. Members also receive 50 customer reviews via SMS, WhatsApp, or other channels, seamlessly integrated into their landing page, and can send 250 text marketing messages directly to their customers.

Using tappi’s SaaS solutions, KNCCI members can swiftly generate SEO-optimized websites within minutes, guided by an intuitive chat tool. Leveraging AI, machine learning, and algorithms, each website's content and design will be tailored to its target audience and industry sector. Members can also distribute Google, Facebook, and Instagram ads effortlessly and access a range of supplementary digital services.

With Kenya positioned as the 74th largest market for eCommerce, boasting a predicted revenue of US$801.4 million by 2024, according to the ECDB (European Company Database), initiatives like Sukuma Biz are well-placed to capitalize on this growing market. This statistic underscores the potential for tappi's tailored digital services to empower MSMEs in Kenya and contribute to the country's economic development and digital growth.

Hikmatu Bilali

Posted On mercredi, 08 mai 2024 14:05 Written by

The Gambia has made significant progress in its digital transformation journey. To advance even further, the country is receiving support from the organizations it belongs to, such as ECOWAS.

The President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, Omar Alieu Touray, and the Gambian Minister of Digital Economy, Ousman A. Bah, signed a grant agreement on Friday, May 3, during the 15th Summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

This $180,000 grant aims to strengthen The Gambia's digital infrastructure and enhance the country's governance through new technologies.

This initiative is part of an ECOWAS strategy to strengthen the digital capabilities of all its member states. It comes at a time when The Gambia is intensifying its efforts to accelerate digital transformation and improve telecommunications infrastructure to provide its population with innovative new services.

Currently, the country is working on a comprehensive digital strategy set to launch in the coming months. Additionally, The Gambia is preparing to connect to a second international fiber optic submarine cable, funded by the World Bank at a cost of $30 to $35 million. The government is also considering enhancing national connectivity via satellites.

The ECOWAS grant is expected to support the implementation of this strategy, which includes digitizing administrative services, improving citizens' digital skills, and creating a standardized digital identification system, among other initiatives.

Samira Njoya

 

Posted On mercredi, 08 mai 2024 12:06 Written by

The entry of major e-commerce players into African markets will ignite competition, innovation, and investment in the digital economy, leading to improved online access, job creation, and greater prospects for local businesses. This will play a significant role in fostering digital growth and economic development across the continent.

E-commerce giant, Amazon.com Inc., has launched Amazon.co.za in South Africa, today May 7.

We are excited to launch Amazon.co.za, along with thousands of independent sellers in South Africa. We provide customers with great value, broad selection including international and local products and a convenient delivery experience," said Managing Director of Amazon Sub-Saharan Africa, Robert Koen, in an Amazon statement.

Following last October’s announcement to expand into the region, the platform offers a wide product range from local and international brands. Customers can access Amazon.co.za via the Amazon Shopping App or browsers, with fast delivery options and 3,000 pickup points.

The launch enables local businesses to reach a wider customer base, featuring South African brands alongside international ones.

Amazon reveals that more than 60% of sales in Amazon’s stores globally are from independent sellers—most of which are small and medium-sized businesses. This underscores the potential for leveraging digital platforms to drive economic growth in Africa and create jobs, as it highlights the significant contribution of independent sellers, primarily small and medium-sized businesses, to overall sales.

By providing opportunities for businesses to thrive on digital platforms, there is the potential to stimulate economic activity, foster entrepreneurship, and generate employment opportunities across the continent.

Hikmatu Bilali

Posted On mercredi, 08 mai 2024 04:48 Written by

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) offer a powerful engine for progress across Africa.  Their potential to improve governance, stimulate economic growth, and drive social development is undeniable. Recognizing this, African governments have a critical role to play in embracing these technologies and adapting to the transformative changes they bring.

SciTech DiploHub, a Barcelona-based organization specializing in science, technology, and international affairs, announced the launch of a Scientific Diplomacy Center for Africa in Kigali, Rwanda, on May 6th.

This new center is a hub designed to foster collaboration among various stakeholders. Scientists, diplomats, policymakers, tech entrepreneurs, and multinational companies will all come together to promote collaborative research and technological development initiatives across Africa.

"The launch signifies a strategic move," declared Alexis Roig (CEO, SciTech DiploHub), pictured left. "It aims to solidify international collaboration between leading research institutions, universities, and companies within Africa's burgeoning scientific and technological landscape."

The project is spearheaded by SciTech DiploHub and boasts a robust network of partners. This includes the municipal governments of Barcelona and Kigali, the Rwandan government, the Network of African Science Academies (NASAC) representing over 30 academies continent-wide, and the Association of African Universities encompassing over 400 universities in 50 African nations. Additionally, over 30 Spanish universities, organizations, and research centers affiliated with SciTech DiploHub will contribute to the initiative.

The project is propelled by an initial investment exceeding 3 million euros, secured through contributions from founding institutions and co-financing funds provided by the European Commission, aligned with the African Union - European Union Innovation Agenda.

Over the initial three years, the Center plans to train over 2,500 African professionals in the nuances of scientific and technological diplomacy. Additionally, it will support the development of innovative science policy strategies for roughly 20 national and local governments throughout the region.

Samira Njoya

 

Posted On mardi, 07 mai 2024 10:09 Written by

Various initiatives have been implemented in recent years to foster technological innovation in Africa. One of them in Timbuktoo, which was launched last January at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

On Friday, May 3rd, Beninese authorities and the United Nations Development Programme inaugurated the University Innovation Pod (UniPod), an innovation hub located on the campus of Abomey-Calavi. The goal is to help young people express their creativity and talents by bringing innovation projects to life.

"UniPod Benin arrives at a perfect moment," said Félicien Avléssi, Rector of the University of Abomey-Calavi. "It undoubtedly serves as a true engine of development for our university. This hub's contributions will be crucial in achieving our ambition to remain at the forefront of technological innovation in Benin and Africa."

The UniPod complex offers a comprehensive space for young innovators. It features a coworking space, a design lab equipped with computers featuring specific professional software and 3D printers to facilitate industrial and electronic design projects, a makerspace that brings together several manufacturing workshops with appropriate equipment, and a technology transfer office that will protect innovation and bring it to market or closer to industry and the private sector.

The implementation of this project is part of the Timbuktoo initiative, which aims to mobilize and invest $1 billion in catalytic and commercial capital to fill critical gaps and support the startup ecosystem on the continent. With the rise of challenges in securing funding for African startups, initiatives like UniPod are crucial for fostering a vibrant landscape of technological innovation on the continent.

Apart from Benin, 15 African countries are expected to host Unipods. They are notably Mali, South Sudan, Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, Mauritania, Sierra Leone, Togo, Liberia, Lesotho, Guinea, Zambia, The Gambia, Burkina Faso, and Gabon.

Adoni Conrad Quenum

 

Posted On mardi, 07 mai 2024 09:12 Written by

Across Africa, microfinance has the potential to be a game-changer for financial inclusion. These institutions offer services that can empower vulnerable individuals by providing them with a safety net against life's unexpected challenges.

On Friday, May 3rd, telecommunications operator Orange Guinea officially launched Orange MicroFinances Guinée (OMIG), its microfinance program. This initiative leverages Orange Money to deliver accessible and inclusive financial services to local communities.

"Credit and insurance remain underutilized within mobile financial services, despite their vast potential for African populations," explained Ousmane Boly Traore, CEO of Orange Guinea. "Through OMIG, we aim to empower micro-entrepreneurs, particularly women, by offering them credit and savings solutions tailored for success, wherever Orange Money operates."

OMIG will provide a range of services accessible through the Orange Money app or USSD menu, targeting micro-entrepreneurs and those without access to traditional banking. This includes loans, money transfers, and savings options. These services aim to simplify and streamline business development and financial goals. Customers will benefit from a fully digital experience, competitive loan and savings rates, and the ability to manage repayments, accounts, and track loans directly within the app.

By introducing OMIG, Orange aims to drive financial inclusion and economic growth in Guinean communities. The diverse services offered by OMIG are expected to further encourage and stimulate entrepreneurship within the country.

Samira Njoya

 

Posted On mardi, 07 mai 2024 08:27 Written by
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