TechPression

Author: Ladele Joy

  • Morocco’s role in sustainable mobility: Insights from the Green Impact Expo 2025

    Morocco’s role in sustainable mobility: Insights from the Green Impact Expo 2025

    Morocco is taking bold strides in the global transition to sustainable mobility, a vision that took centre stage at the Green Impact Expo & Summit 2025. Held in Casablanca from February 11 to 13, the event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to tackle pressing environmental challenges and showcase groundbreaking advancements in green transport.

    With climate concerns driving urgent change, the summit reinforced Morocco’s growing influence in shaping a cleaner, more efficient future for mobility.

    Read also: Morocco to revert to GMT to allow Muslims break their fast with sunset

    Morocco’s commitment to green mobility

    Morocco has positioned itself as a sustainability champion thanks to its ambitious renewable energy initiatives and forward-thinking policies.

    The country’s goal of generating over 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 places it at the forefront of the global green transition.

    The discussions at the summit emphasised Morocco’s strategies for integrating renewable energy into transport infrastructure, focusing on efficiency, affordability, and long-term sustainability.

    Key Developments in Sustainable Transport

    The summit featured dynamic conversations, presentations, and demonstrations on Morocco’s progress in sustainable mobility. Among the major takeaways were:

    Expansion of Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure: The Moroccan government has been aggressively expanding EV charging networks across major cities, incentivising the adoption of electric vehicles and fostering a more eco-conscious automotive industry.

    Read also: Morocco introduces “Generation AI” to boost digital skills for 1000 SMEs

    Public Transport Electrification: Cities like Casablanca and Rabat are leading the charge in sustainable urban mobility by incorporating fleets of electric buses, significantly reducing emissions and improving air quality.

    Hydrogen-Powered Transport Solutions: With its vast renewable energy resources, Morocco is investing heavily in green hydrogen, which has the potential to power next-generation transport solutions and position the country as a global hub for hydrogen innovation.

    Partnerships for Green Innovation: Collaborations with European and African nations, as well as international private-sector stakeholders, have fueled investment and knowledge exchange, accelerating Morocco’s progress toward sustainable mobility.

    While Morocco has made impressive strides, challenges such as infrastructure scalability, affordability, and public awareness remain key considerations. However, the Green Impact Expo & Summit 2025 reinforced Morocco’s leadership in sustainable transport and its commitment to shaping a cleaner, more resilient future. With continued innovation and strategic investments, Morocco is setting the pace for green mobility in the region and beyond.

  • Morocco to revert to GMT to allow Muslims break their fast with sunset

    Morocco to revert to GMT to allow Muslims break their fast with sunset

    The Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform has confirmed that Morocco will revert to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) at 3:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2025, in observance of Ramadan. 

    After the holy month concludes, the country will return to daylight saving time (GMT+1) at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 6, 2025. This annual adjustment aligns with the country’s long-standing practice of modifying its time zone during Ramadan.

    Read also: Morocco introduces “Generation AI” to boost digital skills for 1000 SMEs

    Government rationale behind Morocco’s GMT+1 policy

    Morocco has followed GMT+1 as its standard time since Decree 2.18.855 was issued on October 26, 2018. The government introduced this policy to optimise energy consumption, align business operations with European trade partners, and improve economic efficiency. Maintaining GMT+1 throughout the year, except during Ramadan, reportedly saves hours of electricity annually and reduces carbon emissions.

    Proponents of the policy believe that aligning with European time zones benefits trade and commerce, reducing disruptions for businesses operating across international markets. However, recognising the significance of Ramadan in Moroccan society, the government temporarily reverts to GMT each year to accommodate fasting schedules and prayer times.

    Impact of Morocco’s time change on society

    The Ramadan time adjustment continues to spark debate. Many Moroccans appreciate the shift, as it eases the fasting schedule and improves daily routines during the holy month. However, critics argue that the repeated change disrupts biological rhythms, affects workplace productivity, and complicates scheduling for businesses and institutions.

    Studies have shown that sudden time shifts can contribute to sleep disturbances, fatigue, and reduced concentration, especially among children and the elderly. The darker mornings brought on by the transition may also impact commuting safety and daily routines, causing temporary inconvenience.

    Read also: Morocco taps into booming tourism to build Technoparks, 17.5 million tourists expected by 2025

    Future of Morocco’s daylight saving time policy

    Since the introduction of GMT+1 as the standard time in 2018, Morocco has remained consistent in its approach, with Ramadan being the only exception.

    While the government upholds this system as a balance between economic priorities and cultural traditions, public opinion remains divided. Some citizens call for a permanent, stable time zone to minimise annual disruptions, while others support the Ramadan adjustment.

    As Ramadan 2025 approaches, Moroccans will once again reset their clocks, participating in a time change that has become an annual tradition. Whether the policy remains unchanged in the future or undergoes revisions will depend on ongoing discussions about its long-term implications.

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  • Colas lands €430 million rail contracts to link Kenitra and Marrakech ahead of 2030 World Cup

    Colas lands €430 million rail contracts to link Kenitra and Marrakech ahead of 2030 World Cup

    French construction giant Colas has secured three major contracts worth €430 million to expand Morocco’s high-speed rail network between Kenitra and Marrakech.

    The announcement was made via a statement on February 5, with the contracts signed in January 2025. This marks a significant milestone in Morocco’s infrastructure development as the country gears up for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

    Read also: Beltone Venture Capital invests in Morocco’s LNKO

    Morocco’s €430 million investment in high-speed line

    Colas, through its Moroccan subsidiary Grands Travaux Routiers (GTR), will execute a €180 million civil engineering contract covering a 40-kilometre section, including earthworks, engineering structures, and five bridges. The project is set for completion by late 2027.

    Additionally, in partnership with SETEC, Colas Rail has secured two more contracts totalling €250 million. The first, valued at €200 million, involves designing and constructing tracks, overhead lines, and electrical substations for a 346-kilometre high-speed rail section and a 112-kilometre regional network.

    The second, a €50 million contract, focuses on civil engineering and superstructure work on operational tracks. The entire project is scheduled for completion in 2028.

    Read also: Morocco introduces “Generation AI” to boost digital skills for 1000 SMEs

    Strengthening Morocco’s rail infrastructure

    These developments extend the high-speed rail line that currently connects Tangier to Kenitra, building a world-class transport network reaching Marrakech. Colas Rail previously worked on Morocco’s first high-speed line between Tangier and Kenitra from 2014 to 2018, solidifying its reputation as a key infrastructure partner.

    “We take pride in contributing to Morocco’s railway infrastructure development for ONCF,” said Francis Grass, Executive Vice President of Colas. “This project reinforces our commitment to the Kingdom’s economic growth and aligns with its ambitions for the 2030 World Cup.”

    Colas has been present in Morocco for nearly a century and continues to play a pivotal role in the country’s public works and rail sectors. The company’s involvement in Morocco’s expanding railway network highlights its contribution to enhancing connectivity, reducing travel times, and supporting the country’s low-carbon mobility goals. With Morocco’s National Railways Office (ONCF) reporting 55 million passengers in 2024, these new projects are expected to significantly boost the country’s transportation infrastructure.

  • Verto launches $15,000 Global Business Award to empower African startups

    Verto launches $15,000 Global Business Award to empower African startups

    Verto, a global fintech company specialising in cross-border payments and banking solutions, has launched the Verto Global Business Award.

    This initiative, announced on February 6, 2025, aims to support early-stage startups in South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya by providing funding and resources to help them scale internationally.

    With a total prize pool of $15,000, the award underscores Verto’s commitment to fostering global trade and financial inclusion.

    Read also: Smpl Fund I invests $250,000 in Qora71 to support AI, tech ecosystem in MENA

    Verto’s $15,000 award to boost startup growth

    The Verto Global Business Award is designed to break down financial barriers for startups, enabling them to expand into new markets and establish international supplier connections. Eligible startups must have been operating for a maximum of two years and demonstrate market impact, innovation, and growth potential.

    The competition will recognise the top three startups, with the winner receiving $10,000, the runner-up $3,000, and the second runner-up $2,000. Winners will be announced on October 10, 2025. This funding aims to empower startups with the resources needed to navigate global expansion and enhance their cross-border operations.

    Why this matters for African startups

    International trade plays a critical role in economic growth, with 29 percent of global GDP linked to cross-border business. In Africa, intra-continental trade is expected to boost income by $450 billion by 2035, presenting significant opportunities for emerging businesses. However, many startups struggle with financial and operational barriers when expanding beyond their local markets.

    Verto, founded in 2017, has been at the forefront of solving these challenges by providing seamless cross-border payment solutions in over 200 countries. Through this award, Verto aims to equip promising startups with the necessary tools and recognition to compete on a global scale.

    Read also: Dubai startup qeen.ai brings AI automation to e-commerce with $10 million seed round

    How startups can apply

    Applications for the Verto Global Business Award open on February 6, 2025. Interested startups can submit their applications online, showcasing their business impact and plans for international growth. The winners will be selected based on their market reach, innovation, and potential for scalability.

    With this initiative, Verto is not just offering funding but also creating opportunities for startups to thrive in the global economy. By addressing payment barriers and supporting early-stage businesses, the fintech company continues to drive financial inclusion and economic transformation across emerging markets.

  • Khazna secures $16 million to expand digital banking in Egypt, Saudi Arabia

    Khazna secures $16 million to expand digital banking in Egypt, Saudi Arabia

    Egyptian fintech startup Khazna has secured $16 million in pre-Series B funding to support its application for a digital banking licence in Egypt and expand into Saudi Arabia.

    Khazna aims to provide financial services to underserved low- and middle-income workers. With this latest investment, the company is set to strengthen its market position and drive regional growth.

    Read also: Tunisian fintech startup EasyBank secures $370,000 in funding boost

    Bridging Egypt’s financial gap

    Khazna is committed to offering financial services for individuals who are often excluded from traditional banking. The company provides salary advances, digital payments, and micro-loans, helping users manage their finances efficiently. Currently, it serves over 500,000 users, with 100,000 employees receiving salaries through its platform. Looking ahead, Khazna plans to integrate loans and insurance into payroll systems to enhance financial inclusion.

    $16 Million investment to drive growth

    Khazna has strategically focused on payroll-backed credit and unsecured loans for gig workers, a model that has driven profitability. CEO Omar Saleh emphasized that credit products have been the most profitable part of Khazna’s journey, allowing it to scale sustainably.

    The fundraising round was led by SANAD Fund for MSME, anb Seed Fund, Aljazira Capital, Khwarizmi Ventures, Nclude, ICU Ventures, Quona, Speedinvest, and Disruptech Ventures. With this infusion of capital, Khazna aims to accelerate its expansion plans and secure a stronger foothold in the financial sector.

    Khazna is working toward obtaining a deposit-taking license under Egypt’s new digital banking regulations to reduce borrowing costs and offer more affordable loans. This move will enable the fintech company to accept customer deposits and lower its cost of funds.

    Read also: Egypt VC Summit 2025 highlights shift to private sector-driven economy to woo investors 

    Expanding into Saudi Arabia’s growing market

    Khazna is also eyeing expansion into Saudi Arabia, where demand for financial solutions is rising. Unlike competitors focused on Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services, Khazna will offer medium-term credit products such as earned wage access (EWA), payroll-backed lending, and pension-based credit.

    As part of its expansion strategy, Khazna will form strategic partnerships in Saudi Arabia to tailor its offerings to local market needs. The move aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which fosters fintech innovation and digital economic growth.

    Saudi Arabia presents a lucrative market, with nearly three million Egyptians living and working there, creating opportunities for cross-border financial services. Khazna aims to generate 40-50% of its revenue from Saudi Arabia within the next four years, positioning itself for a potential IPO on the Tadawul stock exchange.

    Despite economic challenges in Egypt, including currency devaluation and investor caution, Khazna’s focused strategy and commitment to financial inclusion have secured its position as a leading fintech player in the region. With this latest funding, the company is set to drive regional growth and financial accessibility for underserved communities.

  • South Sudan launches National Instant Payment System to boost financial inclusion

    South Sudan launches National Instant Payment System to boost financial inclusion

    The Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) launched the country’s first National Instant Payment System (NIPS) on Monday in collaboration with the AfricaNenda Foundation.

    This milestone aims to enhance financial inclusion and streamline transactions for over 6 million adults with limited access to banking services.

    Read also: South Sudan bans social media over deadly attacks in neighbouring Sudan

    Rise of NIPS: Transforming digital payments in South Sudan

    NIPS is a real-time payment system that enables instant, low-cost, and secure transactions. By integrating with the Automated Clearing House (ACH), Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), and instant fund transfers (IFT), it will reduce delays and promote interoperability between banks and mobile money providers.

    South Sudan’s financial system has long relied on mobile operators MTN and Zain due to the lack of a domestic instant payment network. NIPS aims to bridge this gap, fostering a seamless digital payment ecosystem that supports businesses and individuals alike.

    How NIPS strengthens economic growth and financial inclusion

    The introduction of NIPS is expected to drive economic growth, improve government revenue collection, and empower businesses. It will facilitate key financial transactions such as person-to-person (P2P), person-to-business (P2B), government-to-person (G2P), and person-to-government (P2G) payments.

    Backed by organisations like the African Development Bank (AfDB), World Bank, and Gates Foundation, NIPS aligns with regional efforts to modernise payments. It follows the East African Community (EAC) 2024 master plan, which advocates for instant retail payments across member states.

    Read also: South Sudan’s communications authority authorises Starlink to operate

    A step toward a digital financial future

    For a country that gained independence in 2011 and has faced economic instability, NIPS represents a step toward financial modernisation. However, its success will depend on public adoption, trust, and sustained implementation efforts.

    As South Sudan integrates into the regional payment landscape, NIPS is set to revolutionise transactions, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and efficient financial system.

  • RiseUp AI Summit 2025: Tech innovators converge in Egypt to explore future of Artificial Intelligence”

    RiseUp AI Summit 2025: Tech innovators converge in Egypt to explore future of Artificial Intelligence”

    The RiseUp AI Summit successfully concluded its first edition on February 6, 2025, gathering over 2,000 participants and 50 exhibitors at Cairo Business Park.

    The event, held in collaboration with Misr Italia Properties, highlighted artificial intelligence’s (AI) transformative role across industries. Key discussions focused on AI-driven entrepreneurship, real estate innovation, and investment opportunities, reinforcing Egypt’s position as a regional AI hub.

    Read also: Egypt VC Summit 2025 highlights shift to private sector-driven economy to woo investors

    AI and real estate: The launch of a PropTech Innovation Hub

    A major announcement at the summit was the launch of an AI-powered PropTech Innovation Hub in partnership with Misr Italia Properties. This initiative aims to revolutionise Egypt’s real estate sector by integrating AI-driven solutions into property management, customer experience, and design. The hub will host summits and events, including a dedicated PropTech Summit in November 2025. Additionally, the first-ever PropTech Accelerator in the Middle East was unveiled, offering mentorship, resources, and funding for startups in the sector.

    Tech industry leaders share insights on AI’s business applications

    The summit featured industry experts from global technology companies like Google, Microsoft, and Orange, who shared insights into AI’s potential to enhance business efficiency. Microsoft’s Ahmed Salama led a session on how AI transforms business operations, emphasising the need for AI literacy and data-driven decision-making. Another key panel explored AI’s impact on marketing, with executives from Microsoft, eXtra, and Orange Egypt discussing personalised campaigns and automation.

    Read also: Flutterwave, other Nigerian startups shine at Africa Tech Summit Awards 2025

    Funding the future: AI investment and startup growth

    An investment panel featuring leaders from Endure Capital, Salica Oryx Fund, and Tektonik Ventures examined strategies for fostering AI-driven startups. Discussions focused on the importance of funding, data accessibility, and strategic partnerships in building a thriving AI ecosystem.

    As the RiseUp AI Summit wrapped up, it underscored the necessity of AI adoption across industries.

    The event provided a platform for collaboration, empowering startups and entrepreneurs to harness AI’s potential and drive digital transformation in Egypt and beyond.

  • Beltone Venture Capital invests in Morocco’s LNKO

    Beltone Venture Capital invests in Morocco’s LNKO

    Beltone Venture Capital, the VC arm of Beltone Holding in Cario, has announced a strategic equity investment in LNKO, a leading omni-channel D2C eyewear startup in Morocco.

    The investment, disclosed on February 6, 2025, strengthens Beltone’s expansion strategy across Africa, supporting high-growth startups that drive market transformation.

    Read also: Beltone expands into African financial services with acquisition of Baobab Group

    How LNKO is revamping Africa’s eyewear market 

    Founded in 2020 by Maha Bennani, LNKO has rapidly become a leader in stylish and affordable eyewear. The company offers sunglasses and optical frames through a fully digitised value chain and has served over 100,000 customers. With 10 retail locations in Morocco and an online presence across 24 countries, LNKO is reshaping the eyewear industry by making high-quality products more accessible.

    This latest investment will accelerate LNKO’s expansion across Africa, further solidifying its position in the region’s eyewear market. The startup previously secured a $335,000 investment from CDG Invest in 2021, demonstrating its continued growth trajectory.

    Strategic partnership for growth

    Beltone Venture Capital’s investment supports LNKO’s innovative approach to eyewear and its commitment to expanding access to stylish, affordable products across Africa. The partnership aligns with Beltone’s mission to invest in transformative businesses that drive economic and digital growth.

    LNKO will leverage the funding to scale operations, enhance its digital capabilities, and reach new markets. By combining Beltone’s strategic expertise with LNKO’s established market presence, the partnership aims to strengthen the company’s footprint and revolutionise the eyewear retail experience in Africa.

    Read also: Ariika expands global footprint with $3 million investment in MENA nations

    Accelerating market expansion and innovation

    With this investment, LNKO is positioned for further growth, reinforcing its role as a pioneer in Africa’s eyewear sector. Beltone Venture Capital’s backing provides not just financial support but also strategic resources to drive sustainable expansion.

    This collaboration highlights Beltone’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting high-potential startups in emerging markets.

  • Smpl Fund I invests $250,000 in Qora71 to support AI, tech ecosystem in MENA

    Smpl Fund I invests $250,000 in Qora71 to support AI, tech ecosystem in MENA

    Smpl Fund I, a $10 million venture capital fund launched by Smpl Holdings in Abu Dhabi, has invested $250,000 strategically in multiple AI and technology companies within the Qora71 portfolio.

    This investment, announced on Wednesday, reinforces the fund’s commitment to supporting AI innovation and strengthening the MENA region’s tech ecosystem.

    Read also: FEC approves National AI Trust to drive tech innovation, investment

    Smpl Fund I strengthens AI innovation with Qora71 investment

    With a mission to empower AI and tech startups, Smpl Fund I provides seed capital and hands-on strategic support to fuel the growth of emerging companies. The fund targets early-stage AI enterprises with scalable potential, contributing to the region’s rapidly expanding technology sector.

    Qora71, a venture investor syndicate and a member of the Hub71 Angel Program, offers accredited investors the opportunity to invest on a deal-by-deal basis without minimum commitments or fees. The syndicate’s portfolio includes over 50 technology companies, with a strong emphasis on AI and emerging tech sectors. Recent investments include Basetwo AI, zypl.ai, Abwab.ai, autone, Biosapien, and Algooru, signaling the region’s growing influence in artificial intelligence innovation.

    Strategic Vision for AI Growth in MENA

    Mohammad Abu Sheikh, Founding Partner of Smpl Holdings, emphasised the fund’s strategic approach:

    “As second-generation serial entrepreneurs, we understand the unique challenges startups face. Smpl Fund I is not just about providing financial capital – we’re committed to delivering strategic value and accelerating the success of AI companies in the MENA region.”

    He also highlighted the UAE’s position as a hub for AI startups, citing progressive policies, a tax-free environment, and world-class infrastructure as key factors that attract global talent and investment.

    Qora71 welcomed the partnership, stating:

    “We’re thrilled to welcome Smpl to our syndicate of strategic investors. Their deep experience in AI will add tremendous value to our portfolio, offering our startups access to a powerful network of clients, partners, and investors.”

    Read also: Harnessing technology to combat Female Genital Mutilation in Africa

    Fuelling the future of AI and tech startups

    Smpl Holdings continues to shape the future of AI through strategic investments and operational expertise. With Smpl Fund I, the company aims to position itself as a key player in the MENA tech ecosystem, ensuring that AI startups receive the necessary funding and mentorship to thrive.

    This latest investment marks another step toward accelerating AI innovation, enhancing regional tech capabilities, and strengthening the startup ecosystem in MENA and beyond.