Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
An Algerian entrepreneur in Tokyo, Abderahmane Boucetta has launched DataInsta, a platform connecting companies with vetted AI and data experts. Founded in 2024, it enables firms to hire individuals or full teams, accelerating AI adoption across sectors through structured tools and global talent access.
Algeria’s Sid Ali Zerrouki has joined the Africa Artificial Intelligence Council, formed by the Smart Africa Alliance. His appointment places Algeria at the heart of continental AI policy, contributing to strategy, governance and collaboration as African nations align on digital transformation and technological sovereignty.
Botswana’s first satellite marks a turning point in Africa’s space journey. BOTSAT-1 strengthens national security, boosts agriculture, guides rural connectivity, and builds local engineering capacity. It positions Botswana as a serious player in the continent’s $22bn space economy while accelerating data-driven development across sectors.
Orange Côte d’Ivoire has launched Orange Sat, a satellite broadband service powered by Eutelsat to connect rural white zones. Offering both unlimited enterprise plans and low-cost prepaid passes, the initiative expands digital inclusion by bringing reliable internet to areas beyond 4G and fibre coverage.
Africa’s mobile money and digital economy boom is colliding with an escalating wave of cybercrime. With billions lost annually and attacks targeting banks, telecoms and governments, experts warn fragmented policies and external dependence are leaving the continent exposed. Sustainable growth now hinges on building strong, homegrown cybersecurity capacity.
Algeria has launched its third Earth observation satellite, Alsat-3A, enhancing national mapping and resource management, while Senegal plans a second satellite in 2026. Together, the moves highlight Africa’s accelerating space ambitions, with over 21 countries now running space programmes and more than 120 satellites in development.
Morocco has renewed satellite communication licenses for nine operators, covering VSAT, GMPCS, and frequency-sharing services. Backed by ANRT, the move reinforces satellite connectivity as core infrastructure and positions Morocco among Africa’s leading space actors, supporting communications, environmental monitoring, security, and rural connectivity across the country.
Nigeria is preparing to pass one of Africa’s first comprehensive AI laws, introducing risk-based oversight, annual impact reporting, and enforcement powers for regulators. The framework aims to balance innovation with accountability, positioning the country as a regional leader in ethical and transparent AI governance.
Nigeria and Egypt are emerging as Africa’s primary data center hubs as cloud adoption and AI workloads drive explosive demand. With strong growth forecasts, new hyperscale campuses, and strategic geography, both markets are reshaping the continent’s digital backbone—provided power, policy, and skills challenges are resolved.
Flutterwave has acquired Mono to integrate open banking and financial data infrastructure into its payments platform across Africa. The move enhances bank-based payments, identity verification, and fraud reduction while positioning open banking as a foundation for future payment innovation.