TechPression

Tag: digital transformation

  • Egypt’s Digital Transformation: Prime Minister Madbouly directs implementation of Unified Services Card 

    Egypt’s Digital Transformation: Prime Minister Madbouly directs implementation of Unified Services Card 

    Egypt is making significant strides in its digital transformation, with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly actively overseeing initiatives to enhance service efficiency and accessibility. 

    In a meeting held on Sunday, he emphasised the importance of streamlining procedures, modernising public services, and fostering a more business-friendly environment.

    Read also: PayTabs Group takes over PayTabs Egypt

    Enhancing public services through digitalisation

    A major priority for the government is the expansion of the Digital Egypt platform. Minister of Communications and Information Technology Amr Talaat reported that traffic violation inquiries are now exclusively online, representing a significant step toward full e-governance.

    Additionally, the government is working on digitising notary services, which currently require in-person visits. Efforts are also underway to strengthen digital infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted access to essential services. These initiatives reflect Egypt’s commitment to improving citizen interactions with government agencies.

    Implementing the Unified Services Card

    Prime Minister Madbouly has ordered the immediate implementation of the Unified Services Card in Port Said, ensuring all technical requirements are met for a seamless rollout. This card will simplify access to health insurance, supply subsidies, and social protection programs, reducing reliance on physical documentation and enhancing convenience for citizens. It can be managed via smartphone to eliminate the need for physical cards. 

    By integrating multiple essential services into one system, the initiative aims to promote digital inclusion and improve the efficiency of government service delivery.

    Read also: Fawry invests $1.6 million in three Egyptian tech startups

    Boosting investment with streamlined business registration

    Recognising the importance of a strong business environment, Madbouly oversees efforts to fully automate company registration and licensing in partnership with the Ministry of Investment. Plans are underway to launch an electronic platform that simplifies these processes for entrepreneurs and investors.

    To ensure swift execution, the Prime Minister has called for a clear action plan with defined timelines. By reducing bureaucratic barriers and expediting procedures, this initiative aims to attract more investment and enhance economic growth.

    With Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly leading the charge, Egypt’s digital transformation is progressing rapidly. From automating essential services to streamlining business registration, these advancements mark a crucial step toward a more efficient, accessible, and investor-friendly digital economy. As these initiatives unfold, they are set to reshape Egypt’s public service landscape and solidify its role as a regional leader in digital innovation.

  • Unlocking Africa’s future with AU’s ‘Digital Transformation Strategy (2020-2030)’

    Unlocking Africa’s future with AU’s ‘Digital Transformation Strategy (2020-2030)’

    Africa is stepping boldly into the digital age, with the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (2020-2030) serving as a blueprint guiding this journey. This strategy is more than a document; it is a visionary plan aimed at harnessing the power of digital technology to drive economic growth, improve governance, and enhance the quality of life for all Africans. 

    Let’s explore three key areas that can help you fully understand the potential of this digital transformation strategy.

    Read also: VC firm HAVAÍC secures $15 million for its third African innovation fund

    Building a Robust Digital Infrastructure

    Digital infrastructure is the backbone of any digital transformation, and Africa is no exception. The strategy sets audacious goals to ensure that every corner of the continent is connected. One of the primary goals is to increase broadband penetration to 50% by 2025 and to universal access by 2030.

    It involves significant investments in fibre optic cables, satellite technology, and mobile broadband networks. For instance, the strategy highlights how deploying 5G technology is critical to supporting new applications like the Internet of Things (IoT), smart cities, and advanced manufacturing.

    The strategy also emphasises the importance of cross-border infrastructure (Page 22), promoting regional cooperation to develop seamless connectivity between African countries. This not only fosters economic integration but also ensures that no region is left behind.

    Imagine a farmer in a remote village using real-time weather data to make informed decisions or a student accessing online courses previously out of reach.

    Empowering People through Digital Skills

    Digital skills are the future currency, and the strategy strongly emphasises building human capacity. The focus is on education and training to ensure that all Africans can participate in and benefit from the digital economy.

    Integrating digital literacy into the education system is a significant goal. From primary schools to universities, the strategy calls for a curriculum overhaul to include digital skills. Additionally, vocational training programs aim to equip the workforce with the necessary skills to thrive in a digital world.

    Collaboration with the private sector is vital. The strategy encourages partnerships that create internship and apprenticeship opportunities, giving young Africans hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies. Inclusivity is at the heart of this strategy.

    Special initiatives to support women and youth in the digital economy, such as mentorship programs, scholarships, and entrepreneurship support, are highlighted. Such not only promotes gender equality but also ensures that the youth, who are the future leaders, are well-prepared.

    Establishing Digital Governance and Policy Frameworks

    Digital transformation needs a robust governance structure for it to be sustainable. The strategy outlines comprehensive measures to ensure effective digital governance. Protecting digital infrastructure, data, and online transactions is paramount.

    The strategy emphasises the development of national cybersecurity policies, the establishment of regulatory bodies, and international cooperation to combat cyber threats.

    Trust is a cornerstone of the digital economy. The strategy calls for comprehensive data protection laws and regulations safeguarding individuals’ privacy and personal information, essential for building trust in digital services and encouraging broader adoption. 

    Another goal is creating a unified digital market, which would boost the economy and make it easier for businesses to operate across borders. By harmonising digital policies and regulations across African countries, the strategy aims to reduce barriers to entry and promote cross-border e-commerce and trade.

    Read also: AU honours 5 female innovators revolutionising African education with technology

    Challenges to Achieving the Digital Transformation Strategy

    Despite its ambitious goals, the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa faces several challenges. One significant hurdle is the need for adequate funding and investment. Building and maintaining digital infrastructure requires substantial financial resources, which may be challenging to secure, especially in economically disadvantaged regions.

    Another challenge is the digital divide within the continent. While urban areas may quickly adapt to new technologies, rural and remote areas may need more infrastructure and digital literacy. Bridging this divide requires infrastructure development and targeted educational programs to ensure inclusivity.

    Cybersecurity threats pose another major challenge. As more people and businesses come online, the risk of cyber-attacks increases. Strengthening cybersecurity measures and creating robust legal frameworks to protect data and privacy are critical but complex tasks that require coordinated efforts across the continent.

    Furthermore, regulatory and policy harmonisation across diverse nations with different legal systems and economic conditions is daunting. Achieving a unified digital market requires extensive collaboration and compromise among member states.

    The Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (2020-2030) is not just a plan; it’s a call to action. It outlines a future where every African, regardless of their location or background, can participate in and benefit from the digital revolution by focusing on building a robust digital infrastructure, empowering people through digital skills, and establishing solid governance frameworks.

    In essence, Africans must understand and engage with this strategy, as it is a roadmap to a future where digital technology is a powerful tool for economic growth, social inclusion, and improved quality of life.

  • Microsoft, Vodafone to power up digital transformation in Europe, Africa

    Microsoft, Vodafone to power up digital transformation in Europe, Africa

    Microsoft Corp. and Vodafone announced a 10-year strategic partnership that will leverage their combined expertise in cloud, AI, and IoT to deliver innovative digital solutions to Microsoft and millions of customers across Europe and Africa. 

    The partnership will focus on five key areas: generative AI, scaling IoT, Africa digital acceleration, enterprise growth, and skilling and youth outreach programs.  

    Read also: Togocom, IFC to boost internet access in Togo

    Generative AI

    Microsoft and Vodafone will collaborate to transform Vodafone’s customer experience using Microsoft’s generative AI technology, which can create personalized and differentiated content and services across various channels. The partnership will also adhere to Vodafone’s framework for responsible AI, which ensures ethical and unbiased use of data and privacy.

    Microsoft will invest in Vodafone’s managed IoT connectivity platform, which is the leading platform in the market, connecting over 120 million devices worldwide. The platform will become a separate, standalone business by April 2024 and will attract new partners and customers, as well as expand its connectivity capabilities.

    Africa’s Digital Acceleration

    Microsoft and Vodafone will work together to create new digital and financial services for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and consumers in Africa, where Vodafone has a strong presence. The partnership aims to enrich the lives of 100 million consumers and 1 million SMEs across the continent by providing them with access to cloud, security, and modern work solutions from Microsoft, as well as Vodafone’s mobile money and super app platforms.

    Enterprise Growth

    Microsoft and Vodafone will also partner to boost financial services innovation and position Vodafone as Europe’s leading platform for business by distributing Microsoft’s cloud, security, and modern work offerings, such as Azure, to over 300 million businesses and public sector organizations in Europe. The partnership will also enable Vodafone to redefine its global data center cloud strategy, by utilizing Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure and services.

    Skilling and Youth Outreach Programs

    Microsoft and Vodafone will also launch skilling and youth outreach programs, to advance digital literacy and inclusion in Europe and Africa. The programs will target young people, women, and underrepresented groups, and will provide them with access to digital skills training, mentorship, and opportunities.

    A Shared Vision for the Digital Future

    The partnership represents a shared vision for the digital future of Europe and Africa, and a commitment to invest $1.5 billion over the next decade in cloud and customer-focused AI services. Vodafone Group CEO Margherita Della Valle said, “We are excited to partner with Microsoft to accelerate digital transformation across Europe and Africa, and to empower millions of customers and businesses with innovative and inclusive solutions.” Microsoft’s Chairman and CEO, Satya Nadella, said, “We are thrilled to join forces with Vodafone to apply the power of cloud and AI to enhance customer experiences and accelerate the transition to the cloud for millions of people and businesses across Africa and Europe.”

    IMF predicts AI’s impacts on jobs globally

    How African SMEs will profit from the partnership

    SMEs in Africa will gain from the Microsoft and Vodafone cooperation in a number of ways, including: Giving them access to Microsoft’s cloud, security, and contemporary work solutions, which can boost their creativity, productivity, and efficiency.

    Granting them access to Vodafone’s super app and mobile money systems, which can provide them with safe and easy financial services and payment options.

    By providing them with opportunities, mentorship, and training in digital skills through skill development and youth outreach initiatives, we can improve their digital inclusion and literacy.

    In line with the partnership’s objective to improve the lives of 100 million customers and enterprises in Africa, these advantages are anticipated to reach one million SMEs around the continent.

  • Huawei partners with Egypt to drive digital transformation

    Huawei partners with Egypt to drive digital transformation

    In a strategic collaboration, Huawei Egypt’s Vice President of the Technology Sector and Chief Cybersecurity Officer, Mohamed Madkour, revealed the company’s concerted efforts with the Egyptian government. Their joint mission: advancing development and digital transformation objectives by introducing state-of-the-art technology across various sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing. These technologies align closely with Egypt’s ambitious vision for 2030.

    Madkour underscored the immense potential of the Egyptian market, teeming with growth prospects across diverse sectors currently undergoing digital metamorphoses. These sectors encompass transportation, ports, energy, and petroleum. Crucially, the bedrock of this digital transformation is robust technological infrastructure—an essential foundation that Huawei is actively helping to construct through collaborative ventures with several ministries and government entities. This infrastructure paves the way for comprehensive digital transformation across various domains.

    With the technological groundwork laid, the focus now shifts to the establishment of potent data centers that will serve as the bedrock for hosting digital services. These data centers will integrate cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing to elevate application performance and enhance digital services. Madkour emphasized the significance of aligning artificial intelligence services with the broader goals of development and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

    Read also: MTN Nigeria, Huawei partner to revolutionize education in Nigeria

    Understanding the Fourth Industrial Revolution

    Madkour debunked the myth that the Fourth Industrial Revolution merely revolves around mechanization, emphasizing that it encompasses the utilization of modern technologies like artificial intelligence. Achieving this revolution isn’t an insurmountable challenge; rather, it calls for a gradual, step-by-step approach. It demands mastery of the requisite skills and technologies in tandem with the revolution’s evolving demands.

    The pivotal challenge extends beyond technology to nurturing a skilled workforce capable of effectively managing and leveraging technology. Madkour pointed to a concerning gap between the availability of trained human resources and the rapid evolution of technology. Some nations are already harnessing artificial intelligence for specific applications in sectors like transportation, ports, and mining, while others are still in the early stages of comprehension.

    Madkour commended the Egyptian government’s forward-looking initiatives, notably the Digital Cubs of Egypt and the Builders of Digital Egypt, which focus on nurturing skilled professionals from a young age. This approach bears a dual benefit, aligning individuals with national development goals while also bolstering the national economy as these professionals gain opportunities to work abroad and generate foreign currency.

    As Huawei Egypt partners closely with the Egyptian government, their combined efforts hold the promise of ushering in an era of digital transformation. This collaboration unlocks new avenues of opportunity and fosters innovation across sectors vital to Egypt’s future growth and development.

    Huawei, NCW partner to boost Egyptian women’s participation in ICT 

    Why This Partnership Matters

    Technological infrastructure, as Mohamed Madkour emphasized, forms the cornerstone of digital transformation. Without a robust and reliable foundation, the ambitious goals of achieving digital excellence and realizing the potential of artificial intelligence and cloud computing may remain out of reach. In this regard, Huawei’s collaboration with various government entities becomes a critical catalyst for propelling Egypt into a new era of technological advancement.

    The implementation of state-of-the-art data centers further underscores the commitment to technological innovation. These data centers serve as the digital nerve centers, housing the latest in artificial intelligence and cloud computing technologies. By integrating these advanced solutions into the core of Egypt’s digital infrastructure, the nation can unlock unprecedented efficiencies, drive innovation, and enhance the delivery of services across sectors.

    The transformative power of artificial intelligence cannot be overstated. It represents not just a technological leap but a paradigm shift in how industries operate and how services are delivered. Egypt’s journey toward the Fourth Industrial Revolution aligns with global trends, recognizing that embracing artificial intelligence is not a matter of choice but a necessity for staying competitive on the world stage.

    However, the path to mastering these cutting-edge technologies is not without its challenges. As Madkour aptly pointed out, it is not merely about acquiring the tools; it is about having the skilled workforce to wield them effectively. Bridging the gap between technology and talent is essential, and initiatives like the Digital Cubs of Egypt and the Builders of Digital Egypt play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of tech-savvy professionals.

  • AFIGF identifies Cybercrime as threat to Africa’s digital transformation

    AFIGF identifies Cybercrime as threat to Africa’s digital transformation

    The 12th Africa Internet Governance Forum (AFIGF), held under the theme “Transforming Africa’s Digital Landscape: Empowering Inclusion, Security, and Innovation,” concluded in Abuja, Nigeria, with a crucial revelation. 

    AFIGF identified cybercrime as a significant threat to Africa’s digital transformation strategy, echoing concerns about its impact on the continent’s progress.

    In a unanimous recommendation, AFIGF called upon governments across Africa to urgently escalate their investments in cybersecurity. The forum emphasized that cybercrime posed a potential threat to the successful implementation of the Africa Union (AU) 2063 agenda and its digital transformation strategy. 

    AFIGF urged the AU and African governments to allocate sufficient resources to combat cybercrime effectively. This included fostering international cooperation and providing capacity-building for lawmakers, enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and other relevant stakeholders.

    Read also: South African firms grapple with escalating cybercrimes

    Bridging the Digital Divide and Developing a Skilled Workforce

    AFIGF raised concerns about the reactive nature of Africa’s digital workforce strategy. Participants stressed the need for immediate investment to bridge the digital divide and cultivate a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation. They emphasized the importance of delving into Artificial Intelligence (AI) and nurturing digital solutions rooted in African datasets. Customizing AI models to address the region’s specific challenges and opportunities was deemed essential.

    The forum highlighted a critical gap in AI research on the continent. While AI research has flourished globally, there has been a dearth of research tailored to the unique characteristics of African cultures and people. This gap stifles the ability to develop solutions that resonate with Africa’s rich diversity. Addressing this gap in AI research was deemed essential for the continent’s digital advancement.

    The Vision for Inclusive and Secure Internet

    Hon. Samuel George, Secretary General of AIGF and a member of the Ghanaian Parliament, underscored the need for an inclusive, safe, and secure internet for all African citizens. He emphasized that achieving this goal required collaborative efforts to build an Africa that welcomes everyone. George argued that creating an enabling environment, enacting appropriate laws, and providing digital infrastructure were crucial steps toward promoting indigenous and local content development in technological innovation.

    George expressed gratitude to various entities that contributed to the success of the forum. He acknowledged the vital roles played by the African Union Commission, the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Africa IGF Secretariat, and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. He also thanked the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), partners, and stakeholders who supported the event.

    Kaspersky provides threat intelligence to INTERPOL to curb cybercrime

    Creating an Enabling Environment for Digital Transformation

    Prof. Umar Danbatta, Executive Vice-Chairman of NCC, emphasized the importance of creating enabling laws, institutional changes, and digital public infrastructure to drive Africa’s digital transformation. He noted that responsive laws and institutions were essential to address the evolving landscape of the internet, including advances in AI, blockchain technology, 5G, and telecommunications. Danbatta underscored the role of human capital in ensuring digital transformation permeates all sectors of the economy and governance.

    The event, a United Nations initiative hosted by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, received support from various stakeholders. Partners included the Africa Union (AU), Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Nigeria Internet Governance Forum (NIGF), United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), and sponsors such as MTN Nigeria, Huawei, Meta, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), German Cooperation, and Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN).

    Convergence of African ICT Leaders

    The 12th AFIGF served as a convergence point for political leaders, intellectuals, and ICT experts from across the African continent. It provided a platform for collaborative discussions, recommendations, and strategies to address the pressing challenges and opportunities in Africa’s digital transformation journey.

  • Nigeria, India signs MoUs for digital transformation

    Nigeria, India signs MoUs for digital transformation

    In a significant step towards digital transformation and economic growth, Nigeria’s Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has joined forces with his Indian counterpart from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). 

    This historic agreement, inked recently during the Nigeria-India Presidential Roundtable and Conference, sets the stage for a collaborative effort in Sharing Successful Digital Solutions at a scale that encompasses the entire population.

    Read also: Mastercard, Zanzibar to speed up digital transformation

    Strengthening Digital Ties

    The partnership aims to harness the power of technology to usher in a new era of progress and development for both nations. Dr. Tijani emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “By sharing our successful digital solutions, we can accelerate the pace of digital transformation and bring the benefits of technology to every Nigerian.”

    This groundbreaking MoU is expected to pave the way for innovative initiatives that will revolutionize various sectors, including education, healthcare, and public services. It marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards a digitally empowered society.

    A Focus on Education Technology

    In addition to the MoU on Digital Solutions, Minister Tijani also signed another crucial agreement with the Central Square Foundation. This partnership centers on Sharing Successful Ecosystems, particularly in the field of education technology. The goal is to implement these successful models at a population scale, thereby catalyzing digital economic transformation.

    Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, played a pivotal role in further strengthening bilateral ties. Under her watch, a third MoU focused on Infrastructure Development was signed. This agreement inked between the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria Limited (InfraCorp) and Invest India, the National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of India, promises to open up new investment opportunities.

    This strategic collaboration will facilitate a smoother path for investors seeking opportunities in both countries. It underlines the commitment of Nigeria and India to bolster their physical infrastructure, making them more attractive destinations for global investments.

    Bridging the Divide

    At the close of the interactive session between the Nigerian investment mission in India, Mr. Chandrajit Banerjee, the Director-General of the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), underscored the significance of the Presidential Roundtable. He noted that this event provides a robust foundation for Indian businesses looking to engage with Nigeria across various sectors, including capacity building, skills development, agriculture, and infrastructure enhancement.

    The partnership forged during the Roundtable is set to create a conducive environment for fostering cooperation between the two nations, strengthening their economic ties, and driving progress on multiple fronts.

    President Tinubu’s Vision

    Notably, Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, is currently in New Delhi, India, for a six-day working visit. This visit coincides with the G20 Leaders’ Summit, offering a prime opportunity for President Tinubu to engage with global leaders and attract much-needed capital and foreign direct investments (FDI) to Nigeria.

    Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, previously disclosed President Tinubu’s agenda for the visit. He stated that the President’s meetings in India are geared towards bolstering Nigeria’s global standing and boosting its economic prospects through increased FDI.

    As President Tinubu continues his engagements at the G20 Leaders’ Summit, the collaborative agreements signed during the Nigeria-India Presidential Roundtable stand as a testament to the commitment of both nations to harness innovation, technology, and investment for a brighter and more prosperous future.

    In addition to the MoUs focusing on digital solutions, education technology, and infrastructure development, there is a growing emphasis on trade and economic cooperation between Nigeria and India. Both countries see vast potential in diversifying their trade portfolio.

    India, with its robust pharmaceutical and technology sectors, offers opportunities for Nigerian businesses to tap into these markets. Likewise, Nigeria’s rich natural resources and growing consumer base make it an attractive destination for Indian investors.

    In this context, discussions during the Presidential Roundtable touched upon the need to facilitate trade agreements and remove trade barriers, making it easier for businesses from both nations to engage in mutually beneficial exchanges.

    EU launches digital transformation centre in Kenya 

    The Role of Capacity Building

    Capacity building emerged as a recurring theme during the Roundtable discussions. Both Nigeria and India recognize the importance of investing in human capital. This includes training and upskilling the workforce to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving digital economy.

    Dr. Tijani highlighted the need for collaborative efforts in knowledge transfer and skill development. He stated, “We aim to nurture a workforce that is not only technologically proficient but also adaptable to the changing dynamics of the digital world.”

    Another vital aspect of the collaboration discussed during the Roundtable was agriculture and food security. Both nations recognize the significance of agricultural self-sufficiency and food security for their populations.

    India’s expertise in agricultural technology and sustainable farming practices can provide valuable insights to enhance Nigeria’s agricultural sector. This cooperation can lead to increased agricultural productivity, food security, and improved livelihoods for farmers in both countries.

    As the Nigeria-India Presidential Roundtable concluded, it left behind a trail of optimism and excitement for the future. The agreements signed, combined with the discussions on trade, capacity building, agriculture, and food security, lay the foundation for a stronger and more dynamic partnership between these two nations.

    President Bola Tinubu’s presence at the G20 Leaders’ Summit further reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to global engagement and attracting investments. The path ahead is one of collaboration, innovation, and progress as Nigeria and India embark on a journey towards shared prosperity in the digital age.

  • Airtel In Talks With Kenyan President On Digital Transformation

    Airtel In Talks With Kenyan President On Digital Transformation

    Airtel Africa is in talks with the Kenyan government over the expansion of its digital transformation plans for the country and the African continent.

    The Group Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Africa, Segun Ogunsanya, made a courtesy visit to the President of Kenya, His Excellency Dr William Ruto, Wednesday, February 22, 2023.

    During the courtesy call to the State House in Nairobi, the conversations were centred around Airtel Africa’s initiatives to accelerate and deepen digital transformation in Kenya and throughout Africa.

    Airtel Africa prides itself as a firm believer in the potential of the telecommunications sector. 

    Airtel’s Plans For Africa

    Ogunsanya explained that the telecoms company sector possesses both the inherent potential and the opportunity to unlock economic advantages through the development of new solutions that are tailored to the ever-evolving and expanding requirements of customers. 

    They recognize the importance of working ever more closely with governments to achieve the firm’s vision for Africa. 

    Read also: Airtel Nigeria acquires 5g, 4g spectrums for $317 Million

    According to Ogunsanya, “to effectively achieve this, and in pursuit of our vision to transform Africa, we acknowledge the importance of working ever more closely with governments to deliver on our vision for Africa and promise to our customers.”

    Airtel Provides Affordable 4G Network For Nigerian Customers 

    Meanwhile, to increase digital inclusion across Nigeria and the African continent, Airtel Nigeria has partnered with a phone maker, itel, to allow customers to acquire affordable 4G smartphones.

    To enjoy the 4G experience, customers are only required to purchase the itel A60 smartphone, insert an Airtel 4G SIM card, and get 5GB data to browse the internet and connect to different social media platforms.

    “The itel A60 is specially packaged with a 5GB data, which is accessible once you purchase and activate your phone with an Airtel 4G SIM,” the Marketing Director of Airtel Nigeria, Mr Ismail Adeshina, said at a briefing to announce the partnership between the two organisations in Lagos recently.

    “We believe in enriching the experience of our customers, and we are aware that affordability is a major challenge when it comes to enjoying a 4G service.

    “Therefore, this partnership allows us to offer our customers the opportunity to enjoy the 4G experience at a pocket-friendly price,” he added.

    Also, the Director of Corporate Communications and CSR at Airtel Nigeria, Mr Adefemi Adeniran, said, “At Airtel Nigeria, we are driven by the global sustainability and business agenda of Airtel to increase digital inclusion across Nigeria and the African continent, and we believe that this partnership will help in accelerating this goal as it is focused on migrating customers on 2G and 3G to 4G.”

    Microsoft to upskill lecturers expertise in Kenya

    On his part, the Marketing Manager of itel West Africa, Mr Oke Umurhohwo, said, “in line with the 4G for Everyone tagline, the itel A60 will bring a different dimension to how the brand’s target users surf the internet and engender an overall amazing experience for customers.”

    The entry-level Itel A60 has a number of unique features that set it apart from other phones in this category and provide the user with a unique experience while providing value.

    The device offers a 5000mAh battery for longer uptime, 6.6″HD+ waterdrop full screen for an immersive display experience, 32+2GB memory, 8MP+QVGA rear camera + 5MP FF camera+AI selfie, as well as facial recognition and fingerprint protection.

  • To accelerate digital transformation in Africa, Visa will invest $1 billion

    To accelerate digital transformation in Africa, Visa will invest $1 billion

    Visa, a global payments company, has pledged to invest $1 billion in Africa over the next five years in an effort to foster more robust, innovative, and inclusive economies. 

    Visa’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Alfred F. Kelly, Jr., made the announcement at the US-Africa Business Forum held in conjunction with the US-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington, DC.

    The additional investments show Visa’s long-term commitment to Africa’s economic potential and will enable wider access to digital payments as a gateway to growing formal financial services for individuals and merchants.

    The investment would expand Visa’s presence in Africa and strengthen the company’s ties to the continent’s governments, banks, mobile network providers, financial technology companies, and retailers.

    Investments will be made to better the payment ecosystem through the use of cutting-edge technologies, to encourage the digitization of economies, and to foster the growth of skilled workers and productive institutions.

    Read also: Visa, Thunes to Facilitate Cross border payments

     

    Al Kelly, Chairman and CEO of Visa, Inc., said, “Visa has been investing in Africa for several decades to create a truly local business, and today our commitment to the continent remains as robust and unshakable as ever.” Visa supports digital commerce and money transfer in every country on the continent every day, and Africa is crucial to Visa’s long-term growth ambitions. “We look forward to working together with our partners to enhance the financial ecosystem, accelerate digitization, and build resilient, innovative, and inclusive economies that will provide shared opportunity and further boost Africa’s digital economy.”

    Visa investment in Africa

    These investments will help Visa enhance financial inclusion in accordance with its mission to be the greatest way to pay and get paid. Visa’s operations and community activities support small African and women-led enterprises. 500 million Africans lack formal financial services; less than 50% of adults have made or received digital payments; and more than 40 million retailers do not accept digital payments.

    “Africa is seeing an unrivaled digital acceleration, with a rising number of consumers, merchants, and organizations understanding the benefits of secure and convenient digital payments to stimulate trade and money movement,” said Visa Sub-Saharan Africa Senior Vice President Aida Diarra. Visa invested in Africa last year with new offices, innovations, solutions, and financial inclusion projects. Our investment pledge pledges long-term support for Africa and financial ecosystem transformation.

    “Expanding financial inclusion is crucial to long-term economic growth, and we are thrilled to have collaborated with financial and public sector partners to establish new programs like She’s Next,” said Visa North Africa Levant and Pakistan Senior Vice President Leila Serhan. “We look forward to supporting projects that improve inclusiveness and prosperity while bringing innovative ideas to African consumers and businesses.”

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    The Visio and Mission of Visa in Africa

     By opening local offices in Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Sudan, Visa will support and enhance the local financial ecosystem. Visa hopes to support payments in 54 African nations from 10 locations.

    Its purpose are, to unveil the first Visa Sub-Saharan Africa Innovation Studio in Nairobi, Kenya, to bring clients and partners together to co-create future-ready payment and commerce solutions.

    Introducing and growing new technologies that allow African consumers and businesses to make and receive digital payments, such as Tap to Phone, which can turn a simple mobile phone into a payment device, and cutting remittance costs with innovative solutions like Visa Direct,

    Establishing Visa as the fintech partner of choice, working with innovative financial technology companies and entrepreneurs, including running the Visa Everywhere Initiative program, which launched dedicated country programs in Ethiopia and Egypt and attracted African entrants to the global program.