South African fintech Happy Pay has raised $5 million to scale its interest-free installment solution, in which merchants absorb the cost of monthly payments in return for higher conversion rates. The funding will support the expansion of its merchant network, reinforce its online and in-store presence, and improve its risk assessment and fraud detection capabilities.
The Innovate for Impact 2026 competition is inviting early-stage agricultural startups to present solutions aimed at improving food security, productivity and sustainability.
Open to companies from several regions, including Africa, the competition offers a total of $65,000 in prizes. Finalists will also have the opportunity to pitch their projects to investors and industry leaders in Des Moines, Iowa.
- iCard enables users to access global online services without a bank account.
- Platform supports hybrid payments including airtime credit and partner bank cards.
- App surpasses 100,000 downloads as fintech adoption accelerates.
Libyan company Al-Madala Financial Services developed iCard as a fintech solution centered on prepaid cards and digital vouchers. The company launched the platform in 2017, and entrepreneur Husen Matar founded the startup in Tripoli.
The platform allows users to remotely purchase prepaid payment cards that they can use on international platforms, including streaming services, gaming platforms, and e-commerce websites.
iCard offers a mobile application available on iOS and Android, and the app has exceeded 100,000 downloads, according to Google Play Store data. The platform delivers a digital code to users, and users activate this code to complete transactions without requiring a traditional bank card.
Therefore, the solution lowers entry barriers to digital payments and broadens access to global online services.
iCard differentiates itself through flexible payment options. The platform accepts multiple payment methods, including mobile airtime credit and bank cards issued by partner institutions.
This hybrid approach allows the platform to bypass limitations in traditional financial systems. Consequently, the model adapts to environments where access to formal banking services remains constrained.
Beyond prepaid card distribution, iCard integrates into a broader digitalization strategy for payments. The platform removes physical constraints associated with prepaid cards, such as in-store availability, limited opening hours, and loss risks.
As a result, the service delivers a fully digital, continuous, and user-friendly experience.
The platform addresses growing demand for alternative payment solutions, particularly among young users and unbanked populations. At the same time, it reflects the rise of local fintech players that adapt global use cases to African and Middle Eastern market realities.
In the long term, solutions such as iCard could expand access to digital services. They could also act as a bridge between informal economies and global digital commerce.
This article was initially published in French by Adoni Conrad Quenum
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Joe Kinvi founded Borderless in 2023 in London to digitize and simplify collective management.
- The platform targets investment groups, diaspora networks, and professional communities.
- Borderless centralizes membership, governance, and investment tracking to improve transparency.
Joe Kinvi, a Togolese entrepreneur, investor, and former fintech executive based in England, founded Borderless, a platform designed to help community leaders organize, grow, and manage their collectives more efficiently.
Kinvi aims to use technology to redefine how communities structure themselves and collaborate. He positions the platform as a digital framework to better organize and unify groups.
Founded in 2023 in London, Borderless provides an intuitive and structured solution for the day-to-day management of collectives. The platform centralizes registrations, streamlines membership applications, and enables smoother coordination among members.
Borderless also allows users to manage investments with greater transparency and improved tracking. As a result, the platform targets investment groups, social clubs, and professional networks.
It also serves diaspora communities that seek to invest collectively across borders while maintaining structured governance.
Borderless structures its onboarding process through a series of standardized steps. Users create a collective by completing a registration form and submitting required documents before the platform publishes the group online.
The platform then assigns a dedicated interface to manage members and activities. Members join collectives through invitations or shared links, followed by account creation and identity verification.
Kinvi serves on the board of directors and on the membership and nominations committee of the African Business Angel Network (ABAN). He previously co-founded HoaQ in 2020, a community of creators and operators, and served as its president until 2024.
Kinvi qualified as a chartered accountant with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland. He started his career in 2011 as an auditor at Ernst & Young.
He joined State Street in 2015 as an internal auditor. He later founded the African Professionals Network of Ireland in 2016 and served as its president.
Kinvi joined Touchtech Payments in 2017 as finance manager. He then worked as head of financial partnerships at Paystack between 2022 and 2023 before launching Borderless.
This article was initially published in French by Melchior Koba
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Cameroon implements an electronic system to collect import duties on mobile phones, tablets, and other digital devices.
- Customs revenue from mobile devices fell from CFA2 billion ($3.5 million) monthly in the 2000s to CFA100 million in 2025.
- The digital platform CAMCIS strengthens traceability, reduces fraud, and enforces compliance with telecommunications access rules.
Cameroon accelerates the modernization of its customs administration with a fully electronic mechanism for collecting import duties on mobile phones, tablets, and other digital terminals. Authorities aim to improve traceability and curb revenue losses linked to fraud.
Fongod Edwin Nuvaga, Director-General of Customs, presented the system on Thursday, March 19, in Douala. He explained that the system forms part of reforms under the 2023 finance law and relies on CAMCIS, the country’s digital customs platform.
Customs revenue from mobile devices has declined sharply. Data from the administration show monthly collections fell from approximately CFA2 billion ($3.5 million) in the 2000s to CFA100 million in 2025. Authorities attribute the drop to fraud, smuggling, tax non-compliance, and the proliferation of informal entry points.
The new digital system seeks to restore tax fairness, enhance public revenue collection, and strengthen operational transparency.
Importers must declare devices through the digital platform and make payments electronically, improving the traceability of financial flows. Customs will control network access: only properly cleared devices, roaming units, or equipment benefiting from fiscal amnesty may connect to telecommunications networks.
The reform does not introduce new taxes and should not increase device prices. It focuses on securing existing revenue and cleaning up the market.
Authorities implemented transitional measures. Devices already in circulation are considered regularized, and distributors have a grace period to comply with the new rules. Small quantities of undeclared devices may undergo simplified clearance procedures.
The reform involves multiple public institutions, including the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, the Telecommunications Regulatory Agency, and the National Agency for Information and Communication Technologies, alongside private partners. Authorities aim to leverage digital tools to strengthen fiscal governance and market integrity.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- The International Cybersecurity Community for Africa (ICCA) launched in Kigali to strengthen regional cybersecurity capabilities.
- ICCA aims to train 1 million cybersecurity specialists by 2030, up from 300,000 currently.
- The initiative introduces Umurinzi Cyber Threat Intelligence and practical Capture-the-Flag simulations to enhance expertise.
Sub-Saharan Africa recorded 138 million cyberattacks in the first half of 2025, according to Kaspersky. Organizations faced an average of 1,848 attacks per week, highlighting an urgent need to expand cybersecurity capacity.
In response, the International Cybersecurity Community for Africa (ICCA), a pan-African platform, launched on Friday, March 20, in Kigali. ICCA aims to unify continental experts and strengthen regional operational capabilities.
The International Cybersecurity Community for Africa (ICCA) officially launched in Kigali on 20 March 2026.
— International Cybersecurity Community for Africa (@icca_afrika) March 21, 2026
More than just an organization, ICCA is a movement focused on building a stronger, more resilient cybersecurity ecosystem across Africa through collaboration, capacity… pic.twitter.com/hq7fUm09dz
ICCA serves as a cooperative framework for information sharing on digital risks, skill development, and talent enhancement. Its founders set an ambitious goal: to train 1 million cybersecurity specialists by 2030. The current workforce totals only 300,000, while demand continues to grow.
The platform also intends to expand to around 15 African countries by 2027. It plans to launch certification programs and an African Cyber Resilience Index to benchmark national preparedness against cyber threats.
The initiative introduced two key tools. Umurinzi Cyber Threat Intelligence detects compromised credentials on the dark web and alerts targeted organizations. A practical Capture-the-Flag (CTF) system provides simulated attacks to build technical expertise at controlled costs in environments tailored to local realities.
These tools aim to accelerate skills acquisition while improving the operational readiness of African organizations.
Rwandan authorities and international partners back ICCA. The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to develop human capital and protect critical infrastructure. Its organizers hope to create an integrated digital ecosystem capable of managing risks arising from rapid digital transformation.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
- Lengo Pay, founded in 2024, automates mass payments for salaries, commissions, and business transactions.
- The platform centralizes payment collection, transaction management, and merchant payments in a secure, digital environment.
- Founder Thierno Ibrahima Diallo also leads Easy Link Guinea, a digital agency providing transformation and training services.
Thierno Ibrahima Diallo, based in Conakry, founded Lengo Pay, a digital payments platform designed to help companies collect and manage transactions efficiently and securely. The platform caters to businesses seeking reliable digital tools for mass payments.
Lengo Pay enables companies to process bulk payments, including salaries, commissions, and other group disbursements, streamlining financial operations for merchants and organizations alike.
The platform centralizes payment reception, transaction management, and collection organization within a single interface. It also integrates a merchant payment solution, simplifying client and corporate settlements. Its electronic terminal supports multiple payment methods, providing a secure and seamless experience for users.
Diallo also leads Easy Link Guinea, founded in 2012, which guides organizations through digital transformation. The agency offers development, strategy, and communication services and hosts a digital training academy.
Diallo holds a degree in Applied Computer Methods for Business Management (MIAGE) from Université Kofi Annan (2009). He began his career in 2008 as an accounting assistant, then joined Africa Techno Plus in 2010 as an IT assistant until 2012.
He received the Prix Jeunesse de la Francophonie in 2017 for remarkable achievements among 18–35-year-olds and was named among the “50 Young Leaders Driving Change in Guinea” in 2018.
This article was initially published in French by Melchior Koba
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
WhatsApp is testing a noise reduction feature on Android to improve the clarity of voice and video calls. The system reduces background sounds, including traffic and nearby conversations, while keeping the speaker’s voice clear. The feature is still under development and is expected to roll out in a future update, with an option to disable it.
Namibia has launched a startup accelerator in Windhoek to support the country’s startup ecosystem. Named Accelerate36, the initiative aims to help young companies scale, attract investment, and eventually list on the Namibia Stock Exchange’s SME board. Three local startups have already presented projects focused on education, healthcare, and digital skills.
South African sales management software startup Skynamo has been acquired by UK-based Klipboard Group. The company will continue to operate under its own brand, with additional resources to strengthen its platform and serve manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors. The deal is expected to expand its presence in Southern Africa, the UK and the United States.
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- Omar Gabr leads Luciq, a platform that automates mobile bug detection and resolution.
- The solution captures user experience data and converts it into actionable insights.
- The company links software quality directly to revenue and customer retention metrics.
Egyptian tech entrepreneur Omar Gabr positions software quality as a growth driver in an increasingly competitive innovation landscape. He combines technical rigor with product vision to address persistent challenges in mobile application performance.
Omar Gabr graduated from Cairo University with a degree in computer engineering and telecommunications. He co-founded and now chairs Luciq, a platform dedicated to tracking and improving mobile application quality.
Luciq, founded in 2012, enables development teams to focus on building useful features while maintaining high performance and reliability standards. The company builds its model on a simple principle: applications must “just work.”
The platform detects, analyzes, and resolves issues before end users notice them. It collects a wide range of user experience signals, including crashes, visual glitches, functional errors, user feedback, and session recordings.
It then aggregates this data to provide a comprehensive and precise view of application health. Moreover, it transforms raw inputs into actionable insights through prioritization systems, frustration scores, dynamic dashboards, and clear assessments of business impact.
Luciq accelerates issue resolution through automation tools, root cause analysis, and code change suggestions with built-in validation processes. This approach reduces the workload for engineering teams and prevents defects from reaching end users.
The platform also provides real-time alerts, version control capabilities, feature management tools, and automated fixes. As a result, developers can manage application performance more efficiently while maintaining continuous delivery standards.
Omar Gabr connects application quality to measurable business outcomes such as revenue generation and customer retention. He aims to shift technical teams’ focus away from repetitive crisis management toward innovation and growth.
Through this model, Luciq positions software reliability not only as a technical requirement but also as a strategic lever for scaling digital products in competitive markets.
This article was initially published in French by Melchior Koba
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
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Côte d’Ivoire launches EMY 101, an AI-powered chatbot, to facilitate citizen access to government services via WhatsApp and Messenger.
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EMY 101 provides real-time information on civil registration, taxation, and ministerial services while reducing the need for physical visits.
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The initiative aims to strengthen participatory governance and improve public sector efficiency in the country’s broader digital transformation efforts.
The Ivorian government accelerated public service digitalization this week by launching EMY 101, an AI conversational assistant accessible through WhatsApp and Messenger. The tool aims to streamline citizens’ access to administrative information and enhance interaction with government institutions.
#CeQuiChangeiCI | 𝐄𝐌𝐘 𝟏𝟎𝟏, 𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐛𝐨𝐭 𝐈𝐀 𝐝𝐮 𝐆𝐨𝐮𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
— Gouvernement de Côte d'Ivoire (@Gouvciofficiel) March 18, 2026
𝐃𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐨𝐢 𝐬'𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐭-𝐢𝐥 ?
Le Gouvernement ivoirien lance EMY 101, un assistant conversationnel intelligent, accessible directement sur WhatsApp et Messenger.
Ce chatbot permet aux… pic.twitter.com/g6uXiQ6xhR
Developed as part of public administration modernization, EMY 101 enables users to quickly obtain reliable information on government initiatives and administrative procedures, including civil status, taxation, and ministerial services. Officials said the tool reduces the need for physical visits and improves government-citizen engagement efficiency.
EMY 101 functions as a continuous digital service desk. Users can report concerns, submit alerts, and identify relevant public service contacts. The tool supports participatory governance by facilitating upward information flow from citizens to the administration.
Authorities said EMY 101 promotes closer citizen-administration relations, better public information access, higher citizen participation, and faster request processing. The service leverages widespread use of instant messaging apps in Côte d’Ivoire. Citizens register a dedicated WhatsApp number and send the keyword “Emy 101” to access features; Messenger access and a toll-free number (101) complement the platform.
The launch forms part of a broader national push to modernize public services, enhance accessibility, and create a more transparent, responsive, and citizen-focused administration.
This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
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Happy Pay enables users to split purchases into two salary-based payments without interest or upfront fees.
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The company positions its solution as a tool to increase merchants’ basket size and conversion rates.
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The firm allocates 1% of its fees to environmental initiatives, including Spekboom planting in South Africa.
Wesley Billett promotes a straightforward approach to payments while advancing a clear objective: he aims to help salaried workers purchase goods without incurring debt while simultaneously improving merchant performance.
He co-founded and leads Happy Pay, a platform that allows consumers to complete purchases instantly and spread payments across two salaries without requiring a deposit or charging interest.
Founded in 2021, Happy Pay allows users to divide a purchase into two equal installments deducted from their next two paychecks. The platform delivers products immediately after purchase. However, it requires customers to pay only part of the total cost upfront. It does not charge additional fees as long as users meet repayment deadlines.
Happy Pay also positions its model as a growth driver for merchants. The company states that it helps businesses increase average basket size and improve conversion rates by offering customers a more flexible payment option. Therefore, the company seeks to build a balanced ecosystem in which both buyers and sellers benefit from the same financial solution.
Happy Pay allocates part of its revenue to environmental initiatives. Specifically, it directs 1% of its fees toward funding Spekboom planting projects in South Africa.
In parallel, Wesley Billett operates as an investment partner at Equitable Ventures, a venture capital firm that focuses on financing innovative fintech startups across Africa. In 2023, he also co-founded Snap, a digital platform that connects fast-moving consumer goods brands with retailers in real time.
This article was initially published in French by Melchior Koba
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum
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Nimvi Express launched in 2026 to modernize last-mile delivery in Chad.
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The platform offers tiered pricing from CFA2,000 to CFA4,000 depending on delivery zones.
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The company aims to address logistics constraints that hinder e-commerce growth in the country.
Chad faces persistent logistics challenges that continue to slow the development of e-commerce. However, new entrants are introducing tailored solutions to address these constraints. Nimvi Express represents one such initiative. The startup launched its digital platform in 2026 and positioned it within the strategic last-mile delivery segment.
Nimvi Express provides rapid delivery services for parcels, documents, and goods. The company relies on a flexible operational model that reflects local urban conditions, particularly in N’Djamena.
The platform combines operational resources, including couriers, with digital tools that streamline delivery management. Like other emerging African solutions, it integrates features such as remote order placement, parcel tracking, and logistics flow coordination.
Nimvi Express applies variable pricing depending on delivery locations. The company charges CFA2,000 (about $3.5) for deliveries within central N’Djamena. It charges CFA3,000 for peripheral districts. It charges up to CFA4,000 for the most remote areas. This positioning responds to a growing need.
In Chad, logistics remains a critical link in the development of e-commerce and digital services. Delivery delays, the lack of formal addressing systems, and insufficient infrastructure continue to complicate the distribution of goods.
Nimvi Express targets both individuals and small businesses. The company aims to facilitate commercial exchanges and support the expansion of digital usage. For merchants, particularly those operating on social media, access to reliable delivery services represents a key lever to expand their customer base.
This article was initially published in French by Adoni Conrad Quenum
Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum