TechPression

Author: Ladele Joy

  • Morocco invests MAD 1 billion to advance phosphate extraction and scientific research

    Morocco’s Ministry of Higher Education, and OCP Group, a state-owned enterprise, launched a major program to support research, development, and innovation (PNARDI).

    The program was announced at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Benguerir on April 7.

    The partnership, backed by a MAD 1 billion budget, aims to place scientific research and innovation at the heart of Morocco’s development strategy, strengthening the country’s global competitiveness.

    MAD 1 billion for Moroccan research and innovation

    Under the newly launched PNARDI, MAD 1 billion will be invested between 2025 and 2028. The program is co-funded by the Ministry and OCP Group, with 20 percent of the total (MAD 200 million) dedicated to bringing Moroccan experts abroad into the national innovation ecosystem.

    This partnership includes the OCP Foundation, the National Center for Scientific and Technical Research (CNRST), and UM6P, which will provide world-class labs and research facilities to accelerate impact.

    PNARDI targets strategic sectors and young talent

    PNARDI is designed to boost Morocco’s standing in global science by focusing on key areas like water, phosphate extraction and processing, renewable energy, food security, health, and even the humanities and social sciences. The initiative aligns with Morocco’s vision of leveraging science for economic sovereignty and sustainable development.

    To drive these ambitions, the PNARDI program features three complementary tracks. The Ibn Battouta program supports young researchers and cultivates the next generation of scientific leaders. The Ibn Albanna program focuses on priority innovation themes that align with national strategic goals.

    Meanwhile, the Nefzawiya program aims to bridge the gap between research and the economy by turning scientific breakthroughs into real-world applications that generate value and drive growth.

    A national effort for global competitiveness

    The initiative reflects a growing national commitment to scientific excellence and innovation. With support from leading institutions like UM6P and CNRST, and through shared funding and strategic planning, Morocco is creating a collaborative ecosystem where research fuels development.

    This first-of-its-kind national program is more than just a funding scheme—it’s a signal that Morocco is ready to compete globally, drive innovation, and tap into the full potential of its researchers at home and abroad.

     

  • Algerian hackers target Morocco in major cyberattack, leak CNSS data 

    Algerian hackers target Morocco in major cyberattack, leak CNSS data 

    The Moroccan digital infrastructure has suffered what may be its most extensive cyberattack to date.

    On Tuesday, an Algerian hacker group JabaRoot DZ, infiltrated the systems of several Moroccan institutions, including the Ministry of Economic Inclusion and the National Social Security Fund (CNSS).

    While the ministry’s website was briefly defaced, the hackers claimed to have accessed and published sensitive information about Moroccan citizens, businesses, and high-level government institutions.

    Hack fuelled by rising digital tensions with Algeria

    According to Resecurity, a U.S.-based cybersecurity company investigating the breach, a threat actor operating under the alias “Jabaroot” infiltrated CNSS systems and exfiltrated large volumes of sensitive data. The files, published on underground forums and not offered for sale, suggest a motive rooted more in political retaliation or espionage than profit.

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    On Telegram, the hackers cited the suspension of the Algerian Press Service’s (APS) Twitter account, allegedly hijacked by Moroccan hackers, as justification for their actions.

    This points to an intensifying digital rivalry between the two countries, layered over decades of political friction, especially concerning the Western Sahara dispute.

    The attackers even published a controversial map dividing Morocco’s southern provinces, signaling clear alignment with separatist narratives supported by Algeria.

    What was leaked

    Resecurity confirmed the validity of the leaked data, which included CSV and PDF files revealing personally identifiable information (PII) of nearly 2 million citizens and data from over 500,000 Moroccan businesses.

    The stolen records were reportedly compiled as early as November 2024 but only released recently, suggesting a deliberate strategy to maximize exposure.

    Details exposed range from full names, ID numbers, bank account details, and salaries, to highly sensitive records involving employees from key state institutions.

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    These include the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Moroccan Pension Fund, the General Treasury of the Kingdom, and the Israeli Liaison Office in Rabat. Several foreign businesses operating in Morocco, including EU-based firms, were also caught in the breach.

    The leak poses long-term risks: identity theft, banking fraud, and corporate espionage. Affected citizens have yet to receive official notifications or guidance, raising red flags about Morocco’s data breach response strategy.

    Resecurity highlighted concerns over the lack of communication from Moroccan regulators and CNSS, especially given the confirmed exposure of critical PII.

    Moroccan authorities deny

    The Moroccan Ministry of Economic Inclusion dismissed the hack as superficial, stating no critical data was compromised. But shortly after, the hackers contradicted this with proof: pay slips and internal documents surfaced online. CNSS, for its part, has yet to issue a formal response as at the time of this report.

    This lack of transparency has triggered concern among data protection advocates.

    Citizens whose data may have been leaked still haven’t received notifications or guidance from regulatory bodies, which is raising serious questions about Morocco’s data breach response protocols.

    Meanwhile, Moroccan hackers are reportedly launching counterattacks on Algerian platforms, suggesting this incident may be part of a larger pattern of ongoing digital warfare between the two rivals.

    With hacking groups on both sides escalating their operations, cyberspace is quickly becoming the new front in the Morocco-Algeria conflict.

    A wake-up call for Morocco’s cybersecurity strategy

    This breach reveals deep vulnerabilities in Morocco’s digital infrastructure, especially in institutions responsible for managing critical citizen data. While this isn’t CNSS’s first experience with cybersecurity issues, a 2020 incident exposed data from over 3.5 million users. This recent attack dwarfs all previous breaches in scale and sensitivity.

    The data dump confirms that Morocco has become an attractive target for sophisticated cyber actors with its growing digitization push. As Moroccan citizens and businesses absorb the fallout, this moment should serve as a national wake-up call.

    Institutions must prioritize cybersecurity as a technical necessity and a cornerstone of public trust and sovereignty. The CNSS breach is not just about stolen data, it’s about how a digital crisis can quickly evolve into a political, social, and economic threat.

  • DW Akademie invites media entrepreneurs to apply for 2025 SMART Accelerator Program

    DW Akademie invites media entrepreneurs to apply for 2025 SMART Accelerator Program

    The SMART Media Accelerator Program by DW Akademie has announced the opening of applications for its 2025 edition to support quality journalism and media innovation in Tunisia. The initiative offers two tailored tracks, MEDIA LOVES TECH and MEDIA PARCOURS, to help new media projects and established outlets grow smarter and more sustainable. The deadline for registration is April 30, 2025.

    MEDIA LOVES TECH

    MEDIA LOVES TECH is for aspiring media entrepreneurs in Tunisia, and applications are also welcome from Algeria and Morocco for those with innovative ideas in journalism or media tech. The program runs online from June to August, offering an intensive incubation experience.

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    Participants will explore their ideas’ feasibility and market readiness through expert-led courses, coaching, and feedback from journalism, design, and tech professionals. Whether you’re working on a startup or developing a new digital product for media, this program helps you shape it into a viable solution.

    MEDIA PARCOURS

    MEDIA PARCOURS is a 6- to 9-month acceleration program for independent, private, or associative media already operating in Tunisia. The goal is to help newsrooms optimise workflows, improve operations, and adopt smart strategies for long-term impact.

    Each media outlet receives personalised support from capacity building and expert guidance to organisational development and partnership opportunities. The path is co-designed with each team based on their unique needs and growth goals.

    How to apply 

    There’s just one application form for both programs. Based on your submission, you’ll be directed to the right track—either MEDIA LOVES TECH or MEDIA PARCOURS.

    Beyond mentorship and training, participants in both programs become eligible for financial support to produce impactful content, thanks to funding from the European Union and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

    So whether you’re a creator with a bold idea or part of an established newsroom seeking to scale, the SMART Media Accelerator is your chance to transform your media journey.

  • Algeria closes airspace to Mali over downed drone

    Algeria closes airspace to Mali over downed drone

    Algeria has closed its airspace to all flights to and from Mali following the downing of a Malian drone near the shared border. The incident, which took place on March 31, 2025, has escalated tensions between the two countries. Algeria swiftly closed its airspace to all Malian flights, citing security concerns. What started as a single drone incident has spiraled into a wider regional crisis.

    Drone dispute ignites diplomatic fallout

    Algeria claims the Malian drone had violated its airspace by two kilometres before it was destroyed near the border town of Tinzaoutin. Mali disputes this, insisting the drone remained well within its territory. Officials in Bamako say the wreckage was found 10 kilometres inside Mali’s borders, calling the downing a “hostile premeditated action.”

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    The fallout has been swift. Mali summoned Algeria’s ambassador and filed a formal protest. Its allies in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) Burkina Faso and Niger joined the protest, recalling their envoys from Algiers. Together, the AES condemned the drone strike as an act of aggression targeting the entire bloc.

    Algeria justifies airspace ban amid escalation

    Algeria has defended its response, calling the drone an “armed reconnaissance aircraft” that entered and re-entered Algerian airspace in a threatening manner. The government also revealed this was the third such violation in recent months. As a result, Algeria immediately announced an indefinite closure of its airspace to Malian traffic.

    According to Algerian officials, the drone was spotted in a sensitive area near ongoing conflicts involving Tuareg separatists and jihadist groups. Mali, on the other hand, claimed the drone was tracking terrorists threatening the AES region and accused Algeria of disrupting an active counterterrorism operation.

    Security concerns deepen across the Sahel

    The dispute adds fresh strain to already tense relations in the Sahel, where instability and extremist violence have surged. The stakes are high with Algeria deploying troops along its borders and AES countries coordinating militarily.

    Diplomatic ties between Algeria and the AES have now plunged to historic lows, with no sign of compromise. As both sides dig in, the airspace closure underscores a broader breakdown in regional cooperation.

  • e& Egypt launches instant cross-border money transfers from UAE, Saudi Arabia

    e& Egypt launches instant cross-border money transfers from UAE, Saudi Arabia

    e& Egypt, the telecom operator, has introduced an instant international money transfer service through its e& Cash digital wallet. Starting in April 2025, the feature allows users in Egypt to receive funds directly from the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

    This digital upgrade supports the company’s push for financial inclusion and aligns with Egypt’s national strategy to shift towards a cashless, tech-driven economy.

    How the e& Cash transfer service works

    The service is available exclusively to e& Cash wallet users in Egypt. It allows recipients to get international money transfers in real time through the company’s mobile app, eliminating delays and paperwork often associated with traditional remittance services.

    Developed in partnership with Banque du Caire, the platform ensures security and convenience. Users can access their funds immediately, making it a game-changer for families relying on remittances for daily expenses, especially those who used to wait days for transfers to clear.

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    It’s part of a broader collaboration supporting the Central Bank of Egypt’s digital transformation strategy, which aims to reduce reliance on cash transactions and boost access to financial services.

    Supporting financial inclusion across borders

    Ahmed Yehia, CEO of e& Financial Technology and Digital Applications, said this launch is about real impact. By simplifying how people receive money from abroad, e& Egypt is helping individuals who depend on remittances manage their finances faster and more easily.

    Yehia emphasised that the service is designed to bring value to users’ daily lives, offering a practical solution for students, workers, and families alike.

    To encourage adoption, users who receive money through their wallets now also have a chance to win up to EGP 1 million in rewards during the launch campaign.

    e& Egypt expansion plans 

    The instant money transfer feature is now available to all e& Cash wallet users in Egypt, with plans to expand the service to other countries soon. By simplifying cross-border transactions, e& Egypt is positioning itself as a regional leader in digital financial services, offering smart solutions that match the evolving needs of users.

    As the digital economy grows, services like this are becoming essential for convenience and closing the gap between people, technology, and financial access.

  • YouTube Premium hikes subscription fee in Nigeria, South Africa

    YouTube Premium hikes subscription fee in Nigeria, South Africa

    YouTube, the popular streaming platform, is raising the cost of its Premium service in multiple countries, including Nigeria and South Africa. Announced via email to Nigerian subscribers on Friday, the change is part of a broader wave of pricing updates by global tech companies. The goal, according to YouTube, is to maintain service quality and continue supporting creators.

    YouTube Premium offers ad-free streaming, background play, and access to YouTube Music, with added features for a smoother viewing experience.

    New YouTube Premium prices in Nigeria and South Africa

    In Nigeria, the individual YouTube Premium plan has increased from N1,100 to N1,700 monthly—a 54 percent jump. The family plan saw an even steeper rise from N1,700 to N2,800.

    In South Africa, the price changes will roll out by mid-2025. The individual plan will go from R71.99 to R81.99 per month, while the family plan moves up to R149.99. YouTube Music-only subscribers will now pay R64.99 instead of R59.99.

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    Long-time users in the U.S. who signed up during the 2014 launch of Music Key—YouTube Premium’s predecessor—are also seeing their first price bump after more than a decade at $7.99 per month.

    Why tech subscription prices are rising

    YouTube’s price increase is part of a broader pattern among global tech giants. In February 2025, Google also raised prices for its Google One cloud storage service in Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, and Tanzania. Other platforms, such as Netflix, Starlink, and Microsoft, have followed suit, adjusting their subscription fees across Africa in response to inflation and currency instability.

    These increases are tied to wider economic pressures. Currency depreciation, especially in countries like Nigeria and South Africa, has reduced the value of local earnings for global companies. With rising global inflation and operational costs, many tech firms are recalibrating their pricing strategies to stay profitable. 

    Another key factor is the pressure to compensate content creators fairly. As platforms grow, so does the demand for higher-quality content and better revenue sharing. Companies are increasing prices to maintain service quality, support creators financially, and roll out premium features like AI tools, HD playback, and cross-device compatibility, making these subscriptions more expensive and advanced.

    How this affects users and the digital landscape

    These hikes come with notable consequences. As subscription costs climb, access to premium digital services is becoming harder for many, especially students, small business owners, and content creators who depend on platforms like YouTube for work and learning. The affordability gap may push users toward free, ad-supported versions or unofficial alternatives, potentially affecting creator revenues. It also highlights the growing importance of Africa in the global digital economy—both as a user base and as a market sensitive to economic shifts.

    With no sign of prices dropping soon, the conversation around affordability, access, and sustainable pricing in Africa’s digital future is just beginning.

  • Royal Air Maroc, Mauritania Airlines sign codeshare deal to increase flights on Casablanca-Nouakchott route

    Royal Air Maroc, Mauritania Airlines sign codeshare deal to increase flights on Casablanca-Nouakchott route

    Royal Air Maroc and Mauritania Airlines have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and a free-flow codeshare agreement to enhance connectivity on the Casablanca–Nouakchott route. The deal, signed on Friday in Casablanca, marks the first major collaboration between the two national carriers, aimed at offering passengers more comfort, convenience, and access to a wider range of destinations.

    More flights, better service for Casablanca-Nouakchott travellers

    As part of the new agreement, both airlines will ramp up frequencies on the Casablanca–Nouakchott route. Royal Air Maroc will boost its direct weekly flights from seven to nine, while Mauritania Airlines will match the increase with nine weekly departures of its own. This improved schedule is designed to offer more flexibility, smoother connections, and better overall service for passengers traveling between Morocco and Mauritania.

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    Both CEOs praised the agreement as a major milestone. RAM’s CEO, Hamid Addou emphasised the shared vision of boosting African air connectivity, saying, “We’re committed to offering an exceptional travel experience while expanding our reach across the continent.” Mauritania Airlines’ CEO Ahmed Salem Mohamed Vall Ammi echoed the sentiment, noting that the agreement opens new horizons for regional cooperation and network growth.

    Codeshare adds new international destinations

    In addition to increasing direct flights, the codeshare deal unlocks new travel destinations. Mauritania Airlines customers can now access onward flights from Royal Air Maroc’s Casablanca hub to four key international cities: Paris, Madrid, Dubai, and Luanda. This move significantly expands route options while maintaining a seamless and unified travel experience.

    The partnership also lays the foundation for future cooperation in aircraft maintenance, ground handling, staff training, digitalisation, and human resources, highlighting the long-term strategic vision of both airlines.

    Connecting Africa through stronger air partnerships

    More than just a codeshare, this agreement reflects a broader commitment to reinforcing regional ties and strengthening Africa’s aviation landscape. By simplifying travel and creating more route options, Royal Air Maroc and Mauritania Airlines are playing a key role in improving mobility across West Africa and beyond.

    This landmark partnership is set to enhance air travel between Morocco and Mauritania while positioning both airlines for future growth on the continent.

  • Morocco, France boost green energy partnership with power link projects

    Morocco, France boost green energy partnership with power link projects

    Morocco and France’s Normandy Region have reaffirmed their shared commitment to energy transition and sustainable development in a major boost for green energy diplomacy. 

    The meeting, held on Wednesday in Rabat, brought together Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition Leila Benali and Normandy’s President Hervé Morin, French officials, and energy experts to explore joint action in renewables, green hydrogen, and nuclear energy education.

    Morocco-Normandy talks focus on green hydrogen and smart grids 

    During the high-level meeting in Rabat, Moroccan and Normandy officials outlined a roadmap for deeper cooperation in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and clean technology education. Discussions centred on enhancing smart energy grid systems to manage electricity distribution and consumption better while advancing energy efficiency strategies critical for a low-carbon future.

    Another key area was scientific research and capacity-building in civilian nuclear energy and engineering, with both sides exploring academic partnerships between Moroccan and French universities. Minister Leila Benali reiterated Morocco’s long-term strategy for sustainable development under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, as Hervé Morin emphasized Normandy’s readiness to collaborate as a leading region in clean tech and nuclear expertise.

    Power link project cements Morocco-France strategic energy partnership

    Beyond regional cooperation, Morocco and France are moving forward with a strategic power link project to connect their energy networks across continents. During a separate virtual meeting, Minister Benali reviewed progress with French energy leaders, highlighting the importance of data exchange systems and institutional collaboration to keep the project on track.

    This cross-border electricity project, backed by RTE (Réseau de Transport d’Électricité) in France and ONEE (Office National de l’Électricité et de l’Eau Potable) and MASEN (Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy) in Morocco, is designed to enhance energy security, promote system integration, and accelerate the transition to low-carbon electricity. 

    Officials confirmed that this initiative is part of the broader energy cooperation agreement signed on October 28, 2024, in the presence of King Mohammed VI and President Emmanuel Macron. The deal involved €10 billion in joint projects covering energy, infrastructure, and innovation, including high-speed rail agreements to expand Morocco’s transport network.

    Shared vision for green hydrogen and clean tech leadership

    As both countries pursue deeper ties, the cooperation extends to green hydrogen development, energy storage, and clean tech innovation. The partnership includes deals with TotalEnergies, Safran and a decarbonisation memorandum between Morocco’s OCP and France’s AFD. These steps align with Morocco and France’s ambition to become regional powerhouses in energy transition.

    With academic and scientific collaboration also on the table, Morocco and France are laying the groundwork for long-term cooperation that spans research, education, and technology. Together, they aim to model how countries can partner for a cleaner, more connected, and resilient energy future.

  • MTN South Sudan donates 100 solar units to rural communities 

    MTN South Sudan donates 100 solar units to rural communities 

    MTN South Sudan has rolled out 100 free solar charging units across underserved communities to boost digital and financial inclusion by tackling one of the biggest barriers in rural areas—access to reliable power. 

    Announced on Friday, the initiative provides solar-powered systems equipped with 12-volt batteries that deliver about 280 kWh of clean energy, enabling locals to charge mobile phones, laptops, and other devices.

    Sustainable telecom: MTN’s broader green energy strategy

    The solar charging rollout is part of MTN South Sudan’s broader mission to lead in sustainable telecommunications. 

    The goal is to install 305 solar-powered base transceiver station (BTS) sites, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting operational costs. Early results are promising, with a 30 percent reduction in fuel expenses and improved network resilience, particularly in and around Juba, the capital.

    Two major data centers have also been connected to the national power grid, lowering carbon emissions and boosting efficiency.

    Driving change through clean energy and community impact

    Whether supporting local shopkeepers, keeping families connected, or expanding access to mobile banking, MTN’s clean energy efforts are about more than just sustainability—they’re about community development.

    With the added stability from new diesel generators in high-revenue areas and an unwavering focus on green solutions, MTN is proving that connectivity and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

    This is more than just a power solution. It’s about empowering people to stay connected, run small businesses, access essential services, and tap into the digital economy.

    “We’re not just lighting up homes—we’re lighting up opportunities,” said Kenyi Lujang, MTN’s Head of Sales & Distribution.

    The deployment is being coordinated through MTN’s regional sales teams in partnership with rural chiefs to ensure the units reach the most impactful locations.

  • Six Russian tourists dead as submarine sinks in Egyptian Red Sea

    Six Russian tourists dead as submarine sinks in Egyptian Red Sea

    At least six Russians were reported dead on Thursday after a submarine submerged near Hurghada, Egypt, according to a statement from the local governor, Major-General Amr Hanafy.

    The incident occurred on March 27, 2025, when a submarine operated by Sindbad Submarines went down near Hurghada, claiming the lives of six Russian passengers, including two children.

    Located 1 kilometre off the Red Sea coast, the vessel carried 45 passengers from Russia, Norway, Sweden, and India, along with five Egyptian crew members. 

    Uncertainty surrounds the cause—perhaps a reef strike or hatch failure—while 39 were rescued, nine injured, four critically. This tragedy underscores ongoing safety issues in Egypt’s tourism industry.

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    Red Sea submarine safety concerns

    The submarine, built for shallow 25-metre reef tours, went down at approximately 10:00 local time. A survivor claimed water entered through open hatches during boarding, though some speculate a reef collision at 20 meters led to depressurisation. Authorities are investigating, focusing on the crew. This follows a troubling trend: the Sea Story sank in November 2024, leaving 11 dead or missing; days later, 30 were rescued near Daedalus Reef; and in June 2024, 24 escaped a sinking off Marsa Alam. A 2024 Maritime Survey International report criticised inadequate maintenance and regulation, signalling broader vulnerabilities.

    Human cost of submarine sinking

    Among the six fatalities were a Russian couple, possibly doctors from Tatarstan, travelling with their children. Nine survivors needed treatment, with four in intensive care. The 39 rescued included passengers and crew, deeply affected by the event. Hurghada, a vital tourism centre hosting over 9 million visitors in 2024, drives Egypt’s $14.1 billion tourism revenue. The Russian consulate is assisting survivors, and Sindbad has suspended operations pending investigation results.

    A collision—or human error?

    What sank the submarine remains unclear. Unconfirmed reports point to a collision with a reef at 20 meters depth, a plausible scenario given the Red Sea’s intricate underwater landscape. Such an impact could have ruptured the hull, causing depressurisation—a sudden loss of cabin pressure that spells disaster in a submersible. Yet the survivor’s account of water flooding through open hatches suggests a different culprit: human error during boarding, a misstep that turned a sealed vessel into a trap.

    Sindbad Submarines insists its two subs, each seating 44 passengers and two pilots, meet safety standards. Governor Hanafi echoed this, noting the captain and vessel were licensed. But as divers retrieve the wreckage and investigators question the crew, the truth remains submerged—for now.

    Read also: Sparkle, Al-Bawaba partner to enhance Libya’s internet speedsecurity 

    Implications for Red Sea tourism

    Governor Amr Hanafi has committed to a detailed probe, noting the submarine and captain were licensed. This incident threatens Egypt’s tourism-dependent economy, which supports millions of jobs. Previous accidents have spurred minimal reform, but this could prompt stricter safety measures to rebuild trust. 

    Failure to act risks further damaging Hurghada’s reputation, potentially costing billions. The investigation’s forthcoming conclusions will reveal whether meaningful change emerges or if safety lapses persist.

    Egypt’s tourism sector, which generated $14.1 billion in 2024, according to a UN report, relies on its allure. Dr James Aldridge, a British tourist who took a Sindbad dive in February 2025, told the BBC it was “a thrilling, safe experience.” But after March 27, that confidence feels fragile.

    The investigation’s findings, due in the coming weeks, could spur reforms: tougher inspections, better emergency drills, or even a rethink of submersible tourism itself.