The EAI Africatek 2025 conference will take place from June 25 to 27, 2026, in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. The event will bring together researchers, government officials, companies, startups, and students to discuss how Artificial Intelligence can drive digital transformation. It aims to develop solutions tailored to African needs—particularly by supporting startups—and to expand the use of AI across society.
The Nigerian organization Cascador is accepting applications for its ScaleUp 2026 program, a 12-week initiative for founders of growth-stage startups. The program aims to help companies move from early traction to institutional funding by offering strategic guidance, mentorship, and support with blended financing. Its objective is to enable high-impact businesses to scale sustainably in Nigeria.
The fintech company Cashi is partnering with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to roll out an interoperable digital payments platform in Central Africa, initially targeting Chad. The platform, accessible via mobile phones, payment terminals and SMS, is designed to facilitate everyday transactions, reduce reliance on cash and broaden access to financial services, particularly for small businesses and underserved populations.
- System enables online access to government services and document processing
- Initiative supports digital transformation under “Digital Ethiopia 2030”
Ethiopia has introduced an electronic signature system to streamline access to government services, as part of its broader digital transformation strategy.
Called teleSign, the platform was developed by state-owned telecom operator Ethio Telecom and officially unveiled on Tuesday, Jan. 31. It enables citizens to complete administrative procedures online securely, without having to visit government offices.
attorney licensing.
— Ethio telecom (@ethiotelecom) March 31, 2026
teleSign enables both the diaspora and domestic citizens to legally grant or revoke Power of Attorney (PoA) digitally, eliminating the need for physical presence at embassies, consulates, or government offices.
Furthermore, the platform incorporates 2/6 pic.twitter.com/l27Lw8WhiZ
Users can sign official documents, verify their identity digitally, request certificates, certify documents and grant power of attorney from anywhere at any time.
“The launch of teleSign marks a major milestone in Ethiopia’s digital transformation journey, introducing secure digital identity verification, legally recognized digital signatures, and fully digitized government workflows that reduce bureaucracy, increase accessibility, and promote national digital inclusion,” Ethio Telecom said in a statement.
The World Bank says electronic signatures can help accelerate digital transformation. In a 2024 report, it noted that as transactions move online, the systems that ensure their security must also adapt.
Without reliable, legally recognised tools to authenticate digital exchanges, handwritten signatures remain necessary, requiring citizens and businesses to appear in person and slowing digitisation.
“When transactions are digitised, new security challenges emerge, as the ease with which digital data can be duplicated or altered creates vulnerabilities absent in paper-based systems,” the report, titled Electronic Signatures: Enabling Trustworthy Digital Transformation, said.
Ethiopia is relying on digital transformation to accelerate its socio-economic development under its “Digital Ethiopia 2030” strategy. The country ranks 169th on the United Nations E-Government Development Index (EGDI). In 2024, it scored 0.3111 out of 1, below sub-regional, continental and global averages.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
- Program aims to strengthen data protection and cyber threat response
- Initiative builds on new laws, partnerships, and national cyber strategy
Somalia's government announced Sunday the launch of a specialized cybersecurity training program for ICT professionals in the public sector. The initiative, which offers internationally recognized certifications, aims to enhance participants' ability to protect national data and respond to growing cyber threats.
The training is supervised by the National Communications Authority (NCA) in partnership with the World Bank Group. The program includes modules ranging from basic to advanced cybersecurity topics, including protection of computer systems, incident management and response, cloud data security, and how to implement and audit organizational security policies. It also covers best practices in risk management and information systems security governance. Courses will take place in Mogadishu through online platforms and in Nairobi, Kenya, between March 28 and May 8.
"This training program forms part of the Authority’s efforts to strengthen the protection of Somalia’s digital infrastructure, secure national data, and address the increasing risks of cyber threats. It will also contribute to building the capacity of government personnel to effectively protect national digital systems and services," said Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, director general of the NCA.
The initiative comes as Somalia steps up efforts to secure the national cyberspace against rising threats. On March 7, the country launched the Somalia Computer Incident Response Team (SOMCIRT), as mandated under the Cybersecurity Law, which the parliament approved in January 2026. In August 2025, Somalia passed a cybercrime bill. The Data Protection Law, which entered into force in March 2023, also led to the creation of the Data Protection Agency (DPA), tasked with overseeing its enforcement.
Strengthening the legal framework and international cooperation
Somalia is also deepening international cooperation to tap external expertise. On Feb. 10, the country signed a memorandum of understanding with Turkey spanning several areas of the digital sector, including cybersecurity. Somalia has also partnered with Malaysia, Nigeria and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), among other partners. The Horn of Africa nation is additionally a signatory to the Malabo Convention, which aims to strengthen Africa's legal framework on cybersecurity, data protection and the fight against cybercrime.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) considers cybersecurity a prerequisite for countries looking to fully benefit from ICT opportunities. In its Global Cybersecurity Index 2024, the ITU ranked Somalia in the fourth tier (Tier 4) out of five. The country recorded an overall score of 37.39 out of 100 and needs to strengthen efforts, particularly in the areas of technical measures, legislation and capacity building.
Isaac K. Kassouwi
- Rwanda’s Parliament approved the draft law’s explanatory memorandum to regulate virtual asset activities.
- Authorities aim to curb fraud, money laundering, and financing while protecting investors.
- The bill introduces a supervisory authority to oversee crypto service providers in coordination with the central bank.
Rwanda’s Parliament approved on Tuesday, March 31, the explanatory memorandum of a draft law designed to regulate activities related to virtual assets. The bill seeks to establish a clear legal framework for a fast-growing sector while balancing investor protection with support for digital innovation.
The draft law aims to prevent risks linked to money laundering and terrorism financing, according to the official document. It also seeks to protect consumers from the speculative nature of digital assets and to ensure market integrity and transparency.
Today, the Chamber of Deputies approved the rationale of the draft law regulating virtual assets in Rwanda. The law aims to create a safe and clear framework for this growing sector, protecting investors while supporting innovation.
— Ministry of Finance & Economic Planning (@RwandaFinance) March 31, 2026
The draft law will now move to the commission… pic.twitter.com/HmF6Oq2AiV
Moreover, the legislation aims to preserve financial stability by limiting systemic risks arising from the increasing interconnection between digital assets and the traditional financial system.
The proposal introduces a structured regulatory framework, including the designation of a supervisory authority tasked with overseeing virtual asset service providers in coordination with the central bank.
It also covers key activities such as exchange platforms, conversion services between fiat currencies and digital assets, and public offerings of crypto-assets. These offerings will now face enhanced disclosure requirements.
This initiative comes amid growing adoption and rising risks. Rwandan authorities have identified several fraud cases linked to fake digital asset projects.
Data presented during parliamentary discussions show that the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has recorded 35 cases involving pyramid schemes and scams tied to pseudo-cryptocurrencies, resulting in significant financial losses for the population.
By introducing a dedicated regulatory framework, authorities aim to secure market practices, strengthen trust in digital financial services, and position Rwanda in Africa’s emerging digital asset market.
The bill will now move to the relevant parliamentary committee for further review before potential adoption.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Nathalie Kienga leads Africa Cyber Education to expand cybersecurity awareness across vulnerable groups in Africa.
- She combines NGO leadership with senior roles in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s presidency and global telecom programs.
- Her initiatives target women, children, seniors, and parents to build grassroots digital resilience.
Nathalie Kienga is a Congolese expert in cybersecurity and digital sovereignty. She serves as founder and president of Africa Cyber Education, a non-governmental organization that promotes safe, inclusive, and responsible digital usage across Africa.
Africa Cyber Education, founded in 2022, delivers concrete training and awareness initiatives in cybersecurity. The organization prioritizes vulnerable groups and individuals with limited familiarity with digital tools.
The foundation structures its activities around several educational programs tailored to different audiences.
The first program, Mwasi Cyber, also known as Les Marguerites, targets women and young girls. It aims to “improve the socio-economic well-being of girls and women by offering cybersecurity training, mentorship, and internship or job-shadowing opportunities.”
The second program, Batoto, focuses on children, whom the organization considers highly exposed to online risks. It teaches them to navigate the internet safely and responsibly through awareness campaigns.
The foundation also runs Cyber Senior, a program designed for older adults. It teaches essential digital security basics, best practices, and methods to avoid online fraud.
In parallel, the Cyber Parents program supports parents in understanding digital tools and cybersecurity rules. It enables them to better guide and protect their children in digital environments.
Alongside her non-profit work, Nathalie Kienga serves as head of cybersecurity at the presidency of the Democratic Republic of Congo. She also acts as national coordinator for the cybersecurity program of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
In 2021, she founded the African Institute of Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security (I-CSSI). The institute offers training programs for students seeking specialization in cybersecurity and information systems security.
Nathalie Kienga graduated from the School of Economic Warfare in France with a master’s degree in cybersecurity. She began her professional career in 2013 as a cybersecurity specialist at Systemis Cybersécurité.
She joined Crédit Agricole Group in Switzerland in 2019 as an information security manager. She later worked between 2021 and 2022 as project development manager at the Switzerland-DRC Chamber of Commerce.
In 2025, she received the Women in Tech Global Tech Diplomacy Award. In 2026, Forbes Africa included her among the 50 most influential African women in its Powerlist published for International Women’s Rights Day.
This article was initially published in French by Melchior Koba
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Selma Ndi leads Data Girl Technologies to train women in digital skills and connect them to job opportunities.
- The organization combines technical training, mentorship, and market access in Cameroon’s growing digital sector.
- Data Girl Technologies also operates as a digital agency supporting businesses with online visibility and branding.
Selma Ndi is a Cameroonian web developer and entrepreneur. She serves as chief executive officer of Data Girl Technologies, an educational and digital organization she co-founded in 2019 with Frida Eposi. The organization supports young girls and women in entering and advancing in the digital sector.
Data Girl Technologies prepares participants for careers in digital professions. The organization strengthens technical skills, builds confidence, and improves understanding of opportunities in the sector.
It also creates an environment where participants receive guidance, support, and access to internships, jobs, and professional collaborations.
The company places practical training at the core of its strategy for girls in Cameroon. Its workshops and programs cover a wide range of topics, from basic computing to advanced modules.
Participants learn website creation, programming, interface design, and other disciplines related to online solution development. The programs also address essential topics such as digital security and responsible technology use.
At the same time, Data Girl Technologies operates as a digital agency that supports businesses and project owners in improving their online visibility. It designs websites to help brands differentiate themselves and better market their products and services.
Its team develops integrated visual and digital communication solutions, working on brand identity, online platforms, and customer retention tools.
Selma Ndi graduated from the University of Buea with a bachelor’s degree in accounting in 2011. She later earned a master’s degree in management and marketing in 2015 from The ICT University in Cameroon.
From 2021 to 2024, she worked as a technology mentor at CareerFoundry, an online school that supports career transitions into digital professions. At the same time, she served as operations manager at Women in Blockchain Africa, a platform focused on blockchain awareness and women’s empowerment.
This article was initially published in French by Melchior Koba
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Senegal and Finland held political consultations to explore cooperation on digital infrastructure and AI-ready data centers.
- Dakar seeks to diversify technology partners to meet targets under its “New Deal technologique.”
- No formal agreement has been signed yet despite growing engagement.
On Thursday, March 26, Senegal’s Minister of Communication, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Alioune Sall, met a Finnish delegation led by Outi Holopainen, Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. The meeting took place during the second session of political consultations between Senegal and Finland.
Both delegations reviewed key digital projects, including infrastructure development, the establishment of an artificial intelligence-compatible data center, and public service connectivity. They also discussed submarine cables as well as two critical issues: disinformation and media literacy.
This engagement with Helsinki reflects Dakar’s strategy to expand its network of technology partners. Senegal requires diversified partnerships to meet the deadlines set under its “New Deal technologique” and to achieve its digital transformation objectives.
In recent months, Dakar has strengthened ties with major technology companies such as Visa and Huawei. It has also engaged with international organizations including the International Telecommunication Union and the World Bank to support its digital and technological projects.
Finland has acted within the framework of the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy. The EU launched this initiative in 2021 to build smart, secure, and reliable connections with global partners across sectors including digital.
The initiative aims to mobilize up to 300 billion euros ($345 billion) in investments to achieve these objectives. However, Senegal and Finland have not yet signed a formal agreement despite ongoing discussions and growing cooperation.
This article was initially published by Adoni Conrad Quenum
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Rwanda prepares a phased shutdown of 2G and 3G networks to boost 4G and 5G adoption.
- Authorities assess infrastructure readiness, economic impact, and risks tied to the transition.
- Limited smartphone access and rural coverage gaps remain key challenges to inclusion.
Rwandan authorities have initiated plans to gradually phase out 2G and 3G mobile technologies. The initiative aims to accelerate broadband development and adoption as part of the country’s ongoing digital transformation.
On Thursday, March 26, Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation, met device importers and private sector stakeholders. She aimed to discuss practical aspects of the transition and to identify ways to improve access to 4G- and 5G-compatible devices for all citizens.
Today, Minister @MusoniPaula met with device importers to discuss the next phase of Rwanda’s digital transition, with a particular focus on the gradual phase-out of 2G and 3G devices and the implications for both industry and citizens.
— Ministry of ICT and Innovation | Rwanda (@RwandaICT) March 26, 2026
The meeting provided an opportunity to… pic.twitter.com/HbXykEHOA8
A Transition Anchored in National Strategy
The migration to 4G and 5G networks forms part of the ICT Sector Strategic Plan 2024–2029, which defines Rwanda’s digital transformation framework.
In November 2024, the government, in partnership with Germany, launched a call for expressions of interest to conduct a technical assessment of the phased shutdown of 2G and 3G networks. The study aims to evaluate infrastructure readiness and the maturity of the technological ecosystem.
Moreover, the assessment examines the consequences of failing to transition, including rising maintenance costs for legacy networks, declining manufacturer support, and increased risks related to security and compliance. It also analyzes the impact on coverage, particularly in rural areas, and evaluates the ability of 4G and 5G networks to deliver inclusive, affordable, and high-quality connectivity.
The evaluation also addresses economic factors, including changes in average revenue per user (ARPU), potential revenue losses for operators, user migration conditions, constraints related to access to compatible devices, and effects on pricing and competition. It further considers regulatory challenges and energy efficiency requirements.
Rwandan telecom operators have already started to prepare for the transition. Airtel Rwanda announced in December 2024 its plan to phase out 3G by the end of 2025 and 2G by 2026, aligning with global trends and national broadband ambitions.
Emmanuel Hamez, then chief executive of Airtel Africa’s Rwandan unit, stated that the shift is “not only necessary, but inevitable,” as the operator builds a modern network capable of meeting the demands of a connected and digital society.
An Inevitable Shift Amid Digital Growth
Demand for high-speed connectivity continues to grow rapidly, and 3G has become too slow for many applications, particularly as user numbers and bandwidth needs increase. Rwandan authorities consider the transition essential to keep pace with global trends and the rise of data-driven applications, while gradually reducing reliance on traditional voice services.
Rwanda aims to leverage new technologies to reduce the digital divide, improve connectivity quality nationwide, and stimulate a sustainable and inclusive digital economy. The National Broadband Strategy highlights improved broadband access as a driver of productivity, innovation, efficiency, and job creation.
Across sub-Saharan Africa, many operators still maintain 2G networks to serve users without smartphones, ensure voice services in underserved areas, and support SMS. However, operators globally have begun phasing out 3G and early 4G generations to free up spectrum and support advanced 4G LTE and 5G deployment.
The World Bank estimates that shutting down legacy wireless networks can improve the efficiency of telecom investments in Africa by enhancing coverage and service quality. It states that maintaining these networks represents inefficient capital expenditure because their ARPU remains lower than that of 4G and 5G. It adds that retiring legacy networks allows operators to reallocate spectrum to more efficient technologies that deliver higher speeds and better service quality.
Persistent Challenges in Digital Inclusion
Despite the expected benefits, the transition to ultra-fast broadband raises concerns about digital inclusion. According to data from the International Telecommunication Union, 2G and 3G networks covered 98.8% of the population in 2024, a level comparable to 4G coverage. However, gaps may persist in certain rural or peripheral areas where newer networks remain uneven in quality and availability.
Beyond coverage, usage presents another challenge. Rwandan authorities reported that mobile broadband subscriptions reached 54% of the population in 2024, indicating incomplete adoption. Limited access to compatible devices remains a major constraint. Smartphones, which are essential to fully utilize 4G and 5G networks, were owned by only 45% of the population in 2024.
Additionally, data costs, digital literacy levels, and the relevance of available content continue to affect adoption.
Furthermore, 2G and 3G networks still support specific professional uses, particularly machine-to-machine (M2M) communications. Devices such as electronic payment terminals, ATMs, smart meters, and certain industrial and transport systems continue to rely on these technologies. Consequently, stakeholders must address their capacity to migrate to reliable alternative solutions.
This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
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The Royal Academy of Engineering has selected 16 innovators from 11 African countries for the 2026 edition of its Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation, with a total prize pool of £85,000 ($112,774).
Their projects cover sectors including healthcare, digital education, public transportation, clean energy, water and waste management. The grand prize winner will receive £50,000 (over $66,000), while additional prizes will go to the most promising runners-up.
The investment firm Novastar Ventures has closed its third fund, worth $147 million, to back high-impact African startups, particularly in climate, clean energy, mobility, and logistics.
Backed by major Japanese investors and development finance institutions, the fund aims to accelerate the growth of companies delivering both financial returns and social and environmental impact.
South Africa is modernizing its ID card application process by offering it through selected banks. Citizens can either start the process online and complete it at a branch or, at selected banks, complete the entire process on-site using digital services. Applicants must bring their ID documents, proof of address, and pay the required fees; they will receive a text message once their card is ready for collection.
- Founded in 2024, JumlaJumla builds an integrated commerce and logistics platform in Tanzania.
- The company connects retailers directly with manufacturers and wholesalers to streamline supply chains.
- The platform combines order management, delivery coordination and electric-bike logistics to improve efficiency.
David Mallya is a Tanzanian entrepreneur and the co-founder and chief executive officer of JumlaJumla, a technology-driven commerce and logistics platform. The company develops digital infrastructure to facilitate the purchase, sale and transportation of goods.
Founded in 2024, JumlaJumla aims to operate as a comprehensive ecosystem that brings together consumers, retailers, suppliers and logistics partners on a single platform. This integrated approach reduces intermediaries, streamlines transactions and optimizes operations from initial order to final delivery.
For retailers and small businesses, the platform offers a wholesale purchasing system that connects manufacturers directly with wholesalers. This structure improves product access, secures supply chains and enables better management of volumes and costs.
On the logistics side, JumlaJumla relies on a system that combines order management, delivery coordination, route planning, service-level tracking and incident management. The company uses electric bicycles for deliveries, demonstrating its intention to combine operational efficiency with environmental sustainability.
Before founding JumlaJumla, David Mallya served as executive director of Gadgets Tanzania from 2019 to 2025. The company specializes in the repair and supply of IT and telecommunications equipment nationwide. It supports individuals, businesses, organizations and public institutions by providing technology solutions designed to enhance efficiency and productivity.
This article was initially published in French by Melchior Koba
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum