• OneNine, founded by Senegalese entrepreneur Doudou Ba and Czech-Vietnamese engineer Duc Anh Tran, is building an AI infrastructure focused on African languages.
• The startup already works with over 160 native contributors and several data companies on pilot projects launched in August 2025.
• OneNine plans to process more than 500,000 hours of linguistic data to position itself as a global leader in underrepresented language datasets.

OneNine, a Sweden-based startup co-founded by Senegalese entrepreneur Doudou Ba and Czech-Vietnamese engineer Duc Anh Tran, is developing an artificial intelligence platform that understands and communicates in African languages.

The company emerged from a key observation: most AI systems are trained on dominant languages such as English, French, or Chinese, overlooking hundreds of languages spoken by millions across Africa. OneNine seeks to bridge this gap by collecting, sorting, annotating, and validating voice and text data in native African tongues.

#OneNine is the Data Supply Chain for AI.

We provide production ready dataset to AI labs like @OpenAI @Meta @Google @AnthropicAI @xai @netflix @YouTube saving them 70-80 % FTE.

We are highly specialized in low resource languages and mission to make AI understand everyone.… pic.twitter.com/FxVt4aUHqN

— Doudou BA (@doudou_onenine) October 23, 2025

Launched in August 2025, OneNine’s platform relies on a network of more than 160 African language contributors, supported by automated data-processing tools. The company has already initiated pilot projects with several linguistic data and research firms.

“Many people cannot read or write, but they can speak — maybe not in English, but in their mother tongue. We want AI to hear them,” said co-founder Doudou Ba.

Ba emphasized that Africa has a crucial role in shaping the future of AI. “The next frontier of AI will not depend solely on building more powerful models, but on creating richer and more diverse datasets. Africa, with its hundreds of languages, holds the world’s largest untapped data resource,” he added.

OneNine’s long-term goal is to become a global leader in linguistic data for underrepresented languages. The startup is building a pipeline estimated at over 500,000 hours of audio and text data.

The company recently joined the Google for Startups program and participated in Norrsken Africa Week, an event dedicated to innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment across the continent.

In the short term, OneNine plans to collaborate with major AI laboratories to refine its models and expand its reach. In the long term, it aims to establish the foundation for a truly inclusive artificial intelligence ecosystem that reflects the world’s linguistic diversity.

This article was initially published in French by Adoni Conrad Quenum

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum

• Algeria launched a National Digital University Library providing access to 110,990 digitized academic resources, including 90,794 doctoral theses and 15,546 patents.

• The government targets 500,000 digital documents by 2027 to accelerate the digital transformation of higher education.

• The initiative aims to enhance research, innovation, and academic accessibility, though challenges such as limited infrastructure and cybersecurity risks remain.

Algeria has launched a National Digital University Library as part of its strategy to modernize higher education and strengthen research through digital innovation. The initiative, led by Higher Education and Scientific Research Minister Kamel Baddari, was unveiled on October 20 in Algiers.

Developed by the Office of University Publications (OPU), the platform gives students, teachers, and researchers access to 110,990 digital academic resources. The collection includes 4,154 OPU publications, 90,794 doctoral theses, 380 Arabic-language works provided by the High Council for the Arabic Language (HCLA), 124 historical books on Algeria’s national movement and the 1954 Revolution, and 15,546 national and international patents integrated in partnership with the National Institute of Industrial Property (INAPI).

From November 2025, Algerian residents abroad will be able to purchase OPU publications online via the platform.

The digital library forms a core part of the ministry’s strategy to digitalize the higher education system and foster an inclusive, connected academic ecosystem.

Minister Baddari said the project “marks a key step in aligning Algeria’s universities with global digital standards and improving access to scientific knowledge.”

Through this initiative, the government seeks to facilitate administrative efficiency, data access, and knowledge sharing across Algeria’s universities, while improving research output and collaboration between institutions.

The ministry aims to expand the collection to 500,000 electronic documents by 2027, signaling a long-term commitment to digital transformation in academia.

The project involves multiple institutional partnerships to enrich the library’s content and ensure interoperability between research centers. Key partners include the HCLA, the Center for Research on Scientific and Technical Information, the National Center for Studies on the National Movement, and the INAPI.

These collaborations are expected to broaden Algeria’s academic and scientific databases, making them accessible through a unified digital interface.

Despite its ambition, the digital transition faces several obstacles. Some universities and regions still lack sufficient technological infrastructure, and students without adequate digital devices may struggle to benefit from the new platform.

Experts have also warned of cybersecurity risks, including data loss, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and technical system failures.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum

• The program targets 200,000 Moroccan children for training in digital and AI skills.

• It is part of the “Digital Morocco 2030” strategy to make the country an inclusive and competitive digital hub.

• The initiative is backed by multiple ministries and the AI Movement Center under UNESCO supervision.

Morocco has launched a national program to train 200,000 children in digital and artificial intelligence (AI) skills, reinforcing its “Digital Morocco 2030” strategy to boost digital inclusion and prepare citizens for the economy of the future.

The government unveiled the initiative on Monday, aiming to equip younger generations with future-oriented skills, promote technology culture, and narrow the digital divide.

The project stems from a partnership signed in March between the Ministries of Digital Transition, Youth, Economy, and Finance, and the International Center for Artificial Intelligence – AI Movement, affiliated with Mohammed VI Polytechnic University and operating under UNESCO supervision.

The first phase was simultaneously launched across 12 cities, mobilizing 65 trainers from participating youth centers. The program will gradually expand nationwide after this pilot phase.

The initiative forms part of Digital Morocco 2030, the kingdom’s long-term strategy to position itself as an inclusive and competitive digital hub. The plan calls for training 100,000 youth annually in digital professions, up from 14,000 in 2022, and includes the creation of specialized schools and support for innovation in emerging technologies.

By introducing 200,000 children to coding, robotics, and AI basics, Morocco aims to cultivate a new generation of digitally empowered citizens capable of driving the country’s digital transformation.

Officials say the program could also strengthen Morocco’s technological sovereignty and consolidate its leadership in innovation on the African continent.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum

• Senegal launched a $233 million national program to train 105,000 teachers and administrators in digital tools and artificial intelligence.
• The program is part of the government’s Education Digital Strategy 2025–2029 and includes distributing computers to science students.
• Connectivity gaps remain a challenge, as 40% of Senegal’s population lacked internet access in 2023, according to the ITU.

Senegal’s government is accelerating its digital transformation strategy through new capacity-building initiatives. In August, authorities already organized digital training for members of parliament.

On September 30, the Ministry of National Education (MEN) officially launched a national program to train teachers in digital skills and artificial intelligence. The initiative also includes providing computers to students in science tracks. Officials described the program as the operational start of the country’s Education Digital Strategy 2025–2029, which carries a budget of CFA130 billion (about $233 million) announced in January.

The program stems from a partnership signed in March 2025 between the Ministry of National Education and the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. It targets 105,000 teachers and administrative staff to integrate digital tools and AI into teaching and school management.

The online training will be accessible via computers, tablets, or smartphones connected to the internet. It includes interactive content, self-learning modules, and certified assessments. Teachers will learn to adapt their methods to technological changes, use digital resources to enrich learning, raise student awareness of digital and AI issues, and strengthen cybersecurity and data protection in schools.

“The final objective of this initiative is to integrate digital tools directly into the classroom, not only to modernize teaching but also to create an ecosystem adapted to 21st-century requirements,” the ministry said. “This program is not limited to teacher training. It represents a paradigm shift that will allow Senegalese students to move from being simple consumers of technology to becoming creators and innovators.”

Successful implementation depends on several factors. Access to compatible devices, the cost of internet connections, digital literacy, and telecom coverage remain significant barriers. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), nearly 40% of Senegal’s population lacked internet access in 2023.

This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum

• Deloitte launched its CyberAcademy in Casablanca on September 19, 2025, to train cybersecurity professionals across Africa.

• The academy offers over 60 certified training programs, integrating AI and aligning with international certifications.

• The initiative supports the Deloitte Morocco Cyber Center's goal of expanding its expert team to over 450 by 2025 and leverages Morocco's Tier 1 global cybersecurity ranking.

Africa faces a significant challenge with the scarcity of specialized cybersecurity skills amid escalating cyber threats. Training represents a critical priority for building a resilient and secure digital ecosystem across the continent.

Deloitte, a global audit, consulting, and technology services firm, inaugurated its CyberAcademy in Casablanca on September 19. The academy operates under the umbrella of the Deloitte Morocco Cyber Center. This specialized cybersecurity training center targets professionals, students, recent graduates, and individuals undergoing professional retraining. Companies currently struggle to recruit qualified talent in the sector.

The CyberAcademy offers more than 60 certified training courses. These programs cover technical, organizational, regulatory, and strategic aspects of cybersecurity. Some modules already incorporate artificial intelligence, and customizable programs adapt to specific business needs. The academy leverages recognized academic partnerships and international certifications (ISC², ISACA, PECB, etc.) to ensure the quality of its curriculum.

This launch aligns with the ongoing momentum of the Deloitte Morocco Cyber Center, which first opened in February 2023. The center currently employs approximately 100 Moroccan and African engineers, with women constituting about 50% of the workforce. It aims to reach over 450 experts by 2025. Furthermore, Morocco has advanced in global cybersecurity rankings. The Global Cybersecurity Index 2024, published by the ITU, assigned Morocco a score of 97.5 out of 100, placing it among the international reference countries (Tier 1).

Deloitte intends to address a proven skills deficit with this academy. Many companies and institutions find it challenging to recruit advanced cybersecurity profiles. This difficulty stems from the proliferation of cyberattacks, digital fraud threats, and heightened regulatory requirements. The country's accelerated digital transformation also drives this need, evidenced by high internet penetration, widespread use of online services, and increasing digitization of public services.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum

• Nigeria, DLN ink deal to supply 47M laptops, tablets for schools

• Hybrid internet plan: 5G, local telecoms, Starlink satellites

• Success hinges on broadband, funding, and teacher training

Nigeria has signed a landmark agreement to roll out what could become Africa’s largest digital education program, aiming to provide laptops and tablets to nearly 47 million students and teachers.

UBEC and Digital Learning Network (DLN) have signed a landmark MoU to launch the National Digital Education Transformation Project.

In line with the Renewed HOPE agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this pioneering public-private partnership will deliver digital devices,… pic.twitter.com/SY8KjpW4Ep

— AISHA GARBA (@AishaMGarba) September 2, 2025

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and U.S.-based Digital Learning Network (DLN) signed a memorandum of understanding in Abuja on Sept. 1 to launch the “Free Laptops” initiative. The project includes teacher training, regional hubs for device assembly and distribution, and hybrid internet infrastructure combining 5G, local telecoms, and SpaceX’s Starlink satellites. The plan targets minimum speeds of 50 Mbps for schools, even in rural areas.

“This initiative is more than just technology. It is a promise of access, equity, and opportunity for every Nigerian child,” UBEC Executive Secretary Aisha Garba said.

Less than half of Nigeria’s public primary schools currently have digital equipment. The government aims to equip 95% of Nigerians with digital skills by 2030, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

While the project underscores Nigeria’s push for digital inclusion and education-led economic growth, success will hinge on overcoming challenges including uneven broadband access, sustainable financing, and adequate teacher training.

Samira Njoya

Malawian engineer and entrepreneur Sanga Kanthema is reshaping healthcare in southern Africa through biomedical innovation and robotics. Based in Blantyre, he leads Dolphin Health Innovation, a start-up designing smart medical devices for low-resource environments.

Kanthema, who works at the intersection of electronic engineering and equipment manufacturing, focuses on building tools that meet the realities of rural Africa. Since founding Dolphin Health Innovation in 2018, he has pushed to equip healthcare systems with telehealth technologies tailored for areas with weak infrastructure.

His company develops real-time ECG sensors that can transmit cardiac signals remotely, even in zones with limited connectivity. These devices rely on algorithmic data compression and intuitive mobile interfaces, allowing for continuous monitoring, early diagnosis, and remote intervention.

Kanthema also founded Qubix Robotics in 2022 to drive local manufacturing. The company builds CNC machines, 3D printers, and robotic systems to automate industrial production across healthcare, transport, and telecom sectors. Its mission: to strengthen Africa’s industrial independence.

Beyond entrepreneurship, Kanthema champions tech education. As a TME Education ambassador, he promotes electronics training in underserved regions. He also represents IdeaXme, a global network supporting socially-driven science and innovation.

This article was initially published in French by Melchior Koba

Edited in English by Ange Jason Quenum

South African entrepreneur Sifiso Danisa has turned her attention to a field often overlooked: teaching African languages to children. Through Limu Lab, the edtech start-up she co-founded with Sphumelele Sibeko in 2020, Danisa is working to bridge the cultural and educational gap that leaves many African children disconnected from their mother tongues.

As CEO of Limu Lab, Danisa leads a company that blends technology with tradition. The platform uses animation, music, gamification, and storytelling to make the learning of African languages fun, modern, and accessible. The inspiration came from Danisa’s own frustration with the lack of digital resources in African vernacular languages.

Limu Lab’s name—drawn from Nguni and Swahili, where “Limu” means “language”—reflects its core mission: to preserve and pass on Africa’s rich linguistic heritage to the next generation through innovative tools designed for early education.

Limu Lab has developed a mobile app available on both iOS and Android, designed to make language learning immersive and fun for children. The app features a rich variety of interactive content—animated stories, educational games, karaoke, e-books, songs, and hands-on crafts. A standout feature is its universe of African characters, presented through short films and educational adventures that help children see themselves reflected in what they learn.

The platform currently offers content in English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, and Sesotho, with more African languages being added regularly to expand its reach across the continent.

Sifiso Danisa, the driving force behind Limu Lab, holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of South Africa (2003) and earned her MBA from GIBS Business School in 2020. She began her career at global logistics giant A.P. Moller - Maersk, where she rose through the ranks from Account Manager to Customer Services Team Leader and Process Improvement Specialist before leaving in 2014.

This article was initially published in French by Melchior Koba

Edited in English by Ange Jason Quenum

• Ivory Coast and French group Ynov Campus signed an agreement to open the first Ynov Campus in sub-Saharan Africa.
• A second deal with the Magic System Foundation will launch a Digital Academy to train youth in digital skills.
• These projects aim to create 40,000 jobs and attract $1.6 billion in investment by 2028.

Ivory Coast has taken two bold steps to tackle the digital skills gap and fuel its economic growth.

Authorities signed two major agreements to train local youth in tech and prepare the country for a digital future. The Village of Information Technologies and Biotechnology (VITIB), based in Grand-Bassam, signed a deal with French training powerhouse Ynov Campus.

This agreement will establish the first Ynov campus in sub-Saharan Africa. Ynov will offer hands-on training in digital fields like web development, data science, digital design, audiovisual production, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.

Officials sealed the deal during the inaugural Ivoire Tech Forum held in Abidjan from July 9 to July 11.

A second agreement between VITIB and the Magic System Foundation will launch the VITIB Digital Academy. This academy will boost local digital skills, help youth integrate into the job market, and improve employability in high-demand tech sectors.

Both projects form part of VITIB’s larger expansion strategy. The site already hosts 96 companies, five data centers, and a one-stop-shop for business setup. VITIB's 2023–2028 plan, budgeted at CFA180 billion ($320 million), seeks to transform Grand-Bassam into a fully integrated smart city.

VITIB wants to create 40,000 jobs and attract $1.6 billion in investment over the next three years.

As digital transformation accelerates, Ivory Coast is under pressure to build a tech-savvy workforce that meets international standards. The Ministry of Digital Transition plans to train thousands in cybersecurity, cloud computing, data management, advanced programming, and AI.

Authorities have made digital upskilling a national priority. They want to support startup growth, ensure digital sovereignty, and fully integrate into West Africa’s digital economy.

Samira Njoya

Cameroonian tech entrepreneur Bill Agha is building a dynamic ecosystem for innovation, education, and entrepreneurship across his country. He runs contests, workshops, and training programs to meet the real needs of students and young tech project leaders.

Agha graduated in computer science from the University of Bamenda in 2019. In 2020, he founded the Tech Innovation Center (TiC) Foundation, a nonprofit that leverages technology to develop solutions tailored to African communities.

Since its launch, TiC Foundation has focused on nurturing tech talent and boosting digital entrepreneurship. The organization offers tools, training, and guidance adapted to Cameroon’s local realities.

TiC Foundation operates three main programs. The TiC Startup Accelerator Program (SAP) mentors early-stage startups, connects them with experts, and provides business training. The TiC Summit, a national innovation competition for high school students, blends project pitches with design thinking, prototyping, and entrepreneurship workshops. The third, TiC Bootcamp, delivers hands-on training to prepare young people for careers in tech.

Beyond TiC, Bill Agha serves as president of the Golden Toastmasters Club and works as technical lead and regional program coordinator at Open Dreams Educational, an organization that helps students in Cameroon and South Africa access international scholarships.

Agha combines his passion for technology and education to empower the next generation. Through TiC Foundation and Open Dreams, he has trained thousands of youths and supported more than 100 startups, playing a key role in shaping Cameroon’s emerging tech landscape.

This article was initially published in French by Melchior Koba 

Edited in English by Ange Jason Quenum