In The Spotlight
Eutelsat and InterSAT expand satellite partnership to boost fixed data services across Eastern and Central Africa. (Image source: InterSAT)
Eutelsat Group has renewed and expanded its collaboration with InterSAT through a new multi-year agreement for Ku-band capacity on the EUTELSAT 7C satellite
This renewed commitment enables InterSAT to strengthen its fixed data service delivery across Central and Eastern Africa. In addition to the new contract, InterSAT has extended its current agreement on the EUTELSAT 70B satellite. Both companies are also in active discussions to incorporate OneWeb’s low Earth orbit (LEO) capacity to support services in East Africa.
InterSAT Communication Services, a prominent satellite-based internet solutions provider in Africa, serves a wide range of clients including government agencies, corporate institutions, and private enterprises.
The EUTELSAT 7C satellite, stationed at 7° East, delivers robust coverage for African markets, while EUTELSAT 70B at 70.5° East offers extensive reach with four high-performance fixed beams and high on-board connectivity.
“We are delighted to deepen our relationship with our long-standing partner, InterSAT, to support their growth in Africa. This partnership highlights the ongoing relevance of our powerful geostationary in-orbit assets to deliver a cost-effective and reliable connectivity service to the remotest areas. Furthermore, we are excited to discuss the possibility of adding LEO capacity to further optimize the service offering,” said Philippe Baudrier, vice-president for Connectivity, Africa at Eutelsat OneWeb.
Hanif Kassam, CEO of InterSAT, added, “With their optimal orbital locations over Africa, EUTELSAT E7C and E70B provide InterSAT with wide coverage and efficiency across the Horizon. Additionally, our state-of-the-art Teleport investments leveraged in this solution provide growth capabilities for our diverse customers in the region. We look forward to adding One Web to our service portfolio whereby our customers across the African Continent can benefit from low-latency and reliable connectivity.”
Q-KON and Rivada Space Networks partner to deliver high-speed, secure satellite connectivity across Africa
Q-KON, a premier satellite services provider, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rivada Space Networks to bring cutting-edge connectivity solutions to Africa and beyond
This collaboration aims to drive digital transformation and expand network infrastructure across the continent.
Under the agreement, Q-KON will utilise Rivada’s Outernet—a revolutionary Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network—to enhance the reliability and security of specialised data networks, especially in sectors demanding high levels of data protection such as finance and banking. The Outernet’s multi-gigabit, bi-directional capabilities and global reach are expected to significantly boost network performance, supporting digital growth and new business opportunities.
Is Outernet ready?
With the rising importance of data sovereignty and resilience, Africa’s connectivity landscape is evolving. The Outernet promises a distinct advantage by delivering not just high-speed, low-latency service, but also robust cybersecurity infrastructure. Its architecture supports future-ready digital frameworks aligned with stringent data safety and privacy norms, fostering increased trust in digital applications and services.
Rivada’s Outernet differs from existing satellite networks by eliminating the need for data to pass through the public internet or third-party systems. It uses laser-linked satellites with onboard processing and an optical mesh structure that routes data entirely through space—from origin to destination. This unique design delivers ultra-secure, low-latency global connectivity, outperforming traditional terrestrial fibre on long routes.
Dr Dawie de Wet, Group CEO of Q-KON, said, “We are pleased to start working with Rivada to develop specialized LEO solutions for the advanced enterprise, industry and government markets in Africa and to complement our growing Twoobii LEO Smart Satellite Services portfolio. We view the Outernet as an evolution on the LEO architecture roadmap that will follow-on and advance the industry from the classic broadband LEO services currently being deployed in Africa, to unlock bespoke applications and high security service-specific user applications.”
Declan Ganley, CEO of Rivada Space Networks, concluded, “We are delighted to be partnering with Q-KON supporting the development of communications across Africa. Rivada’s Outernet is what data communications has been waiting for – a game-changing constellation which re-defines connectivity in terms of security, latency, capacity, efficiency, and coverage. As a completely new type of LEO constellation, the Outernet can provide Africa with a next-generation digital infrastructure for secure, resilient communications and network expansion.”
Cassava and Zindi unite to expand GPUaaS access and foster AI development across the African continent
Cassava Technologies, a global tech firm rooted in Africa, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Zindi, Africa’s largest network for data science professionals
The collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and provide GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS) across the continent.
Through this strategic alliance, both organisations will work together on multiple initiatives. Zindi will utilise Cassava’s advanced GPUaaS infrastructure to develop AI solutions, and both parties will explore synergies by leveraging each other’s platforms and ecosystems.
Empowering African innovation
“For Africa’s AI ecosystem to grow and thrive, it is essential to provide platforms and resources for the continent’s developers and start-ups. Combining our data centres’ advanced GPU capabilities with Zindi’s innovative data science platform creates a powerful foundation for digital advancement. Cassava is proud to support local stakeholders as they develop digital solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing problems,” said Hardy Pemhiwa, president and group CEO of Cassava Technologies.
Zindi, renowned for hosting AI challenges in collaboration with companies, NGOs, and government entities, remains focused on empowering local talent and sparking innovation.
“Zindi is thrilled at the opportunity to partner with Cassava Technologies to strengthen African datasets, address local problems with locally-developed solutions, and help more African AI builders access the resources they need to succeed. Collaborating on the launch of a challenge specifically aimed at nurturing Africa’s AI talent will not only expose entrepreneurs and innovative solutions; it will help build new skills and create employment opportunities,” remarked Zindi CEO and co-founder, Celina Lee.
This MoU marks a milestone in shaping Africa’s AI future. It aligns with Cassava’s mission to deliver top-tier digital services while promoting responsible AI growth. The announcement follows its plans to establish the continent’s first AI factory and the 2024 debut of Cassava’s dedicated AI business.
Sectigo partners with Altron Security to enhance digital certificate management and ensure secure migrations
Sectigo, a global leader in digital certificates and automated Certificate Lifecycle Management (CLM), has entered into a strategic channel partnership with Altron Security, a South African provider of comprehensive identity and digital security solutions
This collaboration enables Altron Security to integrate Sectigo's cloud-native CLM offerings into its existing digital certificate management services, helping mitigate the risks associated with mismanaged certificates. As a result, businesses can enhance their security and future-proof their operations against the challenges posed by quantum technologies.
In addition to expanding their offering, this partnership follows Sectigo’s acquisition of the Entrust public certificate business, which ensures a seamless transition for Entrust customers. With a structured migration plan in place, Sectigo is committed to providing trusted CLM solutions that minimise disruption and guide affected customers through the transition process smoothly.
"We look forward to collaborating with Altron Security as we expand our footprint in South Africa,” said Jairo Fraile, vice-president of global partner sales at Sectigo. “This partnership reinforces our dedication to providing trusted and compliant SSL/TLS certificates and PKI solutions. By working closely with Altron Security, we are ensuring that customers experience a smooth migration process to Sectigo while benefiting from our range of offerings."
As digital certificates become increasingly integral to online security, businesses face the growing challenge of adapting to the shortening lifespan of certificates. The shift from 398-day to 47-day certificate renewal periods demands greater automation in managing Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) environments. Through this partnership, Altron Security is now able to offer Sectigo’s flagship product, the Sectigo Certificate Manager. This solution provides the necessary automation and security to prevent lapses, ensuring businesses remain compliant and secure in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
"We are excited to partner with Sectigo, a globally recognized Certificate Authority renowned for its industry leadership,” said Andrew Whittaker, managing director at Altron Security. “Sectigo's significant presence in the CA/Browser Forum underscores its commitment to upholding the highest security standards, ensuring the delivery of trusted and compliant SSL/TLS certificates. With the shortening of certificate lifespans and increasing security challenges presented by the quantum era, this partnership allows us to provide advanced CLM solutions to the market, empowering businesses to navigate evolving cybersecurity demands confidently.”
This partnership strengthens Altron Security’s position in the digital trust market and supports its broader cybersecurity strategy:
1. Strengthening Market Leadership in Digital Trust:
Altron Security has been a leader in delivering digital trust solutions in South Africa for over 15 years. This new partnership with Sectigo further cements its position at the forefront of the market. It builds upon Altron Security’s existing SSL/TLS certificates and PKI offerings, ensuring they meet the highest industry standards for security and compliance.
2. Expanding Cybersecurity Portfolio:
The integration of Sectigo Certificate Manager enhances Altron Security’s certificate management services, bringing deeper automation and scalability. This allows businesses to reduce operational strain, mitigate risks, and maintain compliance with increasingly complex cybersecurity requirements.
3. Enhancing Customer Experience & Trust:
The partnership presents a significant opportunity for Altron Security to strengthen its relationships with customers, especially during the transition from Entrust to Sectigo. By ensuring a smooth migration process and offering long-term stability through Sectigo’s trusted certificate authority services, Altron Security continues to provide reliable, scalable, and secure digital solutions that cater to a wide range of industries.
With this strategic partnership, Sectigo and Altron Security are well-positioned to meet the growing demand for digital certificate management solutions, offering businesses the tools needed to stay secure and compliant in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
Bayobab enhances East Africa’s connectivity with resilient cross-border fibre via railway infrastructure
Bayobab, a subsidiary of MTN Group, has marked a key milestone in advancing digital infrastructure across East Africa with the official launch of the Kenya Railway–Uganda Railway NLD Mombasa to Kampala fibre route
This strategic cross-border initiative significantly enhances digital integration between Kenya and Uganda.
The newly commissioned fibre route covers 260 km along the Uganda Railway corridor from Kampala to Tororo, extending to Malaba at the Kenya–Uganda border. It links directly to Kenya’s National Long Distance (NLD) fibre, which was introduced in 2024 and runs along the Kenya Railways Meter Gauge Route from Mombasa to Malaba. The seamless interconnection at Malaba integrates into Bayobab’s subsea cable systems in Mombasa, further reinforcing East Africa’s data transport capabilities and enabling high-capacity, low-latency connectivity from Uganda to global networks.
Strengthening regional digital infrastructure
"Kenya’s position as a regional digital gateway is further cemented by this cross-border collaboration. By interconnecting with Uganda via this high-capacity route, we are enhancing regional digital resilience, creating alternative routes for traffic, and opening new opportunities for businesses and communities along the corridor. This is not just fibre in the ground — it’s a new pathway for digital transformation across East Africa," commented Sylvia Anampiu, managing director: Bayobab Kenya.
Constructed between December 2024 and February 2025, the Kampala-to-Malaba segment is securely deployed along railway infrastructure, ensuring protection from road-based risks such as construction damage and providing stable and uninterrupted network service. This initiative aligns with Bayobab’s broader strategy of enabling secure and seamless cross-border digital connectivity throughout Africa.
Delivering impact through interconnection
As a landlocked country, Uganda gains significant strategic advantage from the route, which provides a shorter and more resilient connection to Mombasa’s subsea cable landing points. The infrastructure supports both rural broadband development and high-bandwidth enterprise services, while linking key data centres across Uganda and Kenya.
Designed to meet the demands of hyperscalers, service providers, and enterprises expanding in East Africa, the route ensures reliable and scalable digital access across the region.
This project underscores Bayobab’s ongoing commitment to building a robust, secure, and interconnected digital ecosystem in Africa. The Mombasa–Malaba–Kampala corridor represents one of several initiatives designed to digitally unite the continent and connect it more effectively to the global digital economy.
Bayobab Uganda launches Kampala-Malaba fibre route, boosting East Africa’s digital connectivity backbone
Bayobab Uganda, a subsidiary of MTN Group, has announced the successful completion of its newest and most direct fibre optic route, linking Malaba to Kampala
As the digital infrastructure arm of MTN, Bayobab plays a leading role in transforming connectivity across the East African Corridor. This critical infrastructure milestone reflects MTN’s mission to extend connectivity to all by expanding its fibre reach across the markets it serves.
Spanning 260 kilometres, the strategic fibre route stretches from Kampala through Tororo to Malaba, creating a vital digital bridge between Uganda and Kenya. Completed between December 2024 and February 2025, this route ensures robust, high-capacity connectivity from Uganda’s capital to Mombasa’s subsea cable landing stations, leveraging the recent activation of the Mombasa–Malaba/Busia link in Kenya. Together, they form the complete East African digital backbone from Kampala to Mombasa.
During the unveiling in Kampala, Juliet Nsubuga, managing director of Bayobab Uganda, reiterated the company’s commitment to advancing technological development in Uganda and across the region.
“In collaboration with the Uganda Railway, we leveraged the existing rail network to deploy fibre, enhancing connectivity and providing high-speed internet access to communities along the line, connecting key routes between Kampala and Malaba at the Kenyan border - and beyond,” said Nsubuga. “This new route caters to the needs of international and national technology and digital players, as well as telecoms and ISPs that serve communities, demonstrating our commitment to connecting Africa.”
Connectivity route launched
This latest development builds on Bayobab’s broader infrastructure portfolio, adding to MTN’s existing fibre deployments, including the Busia–Jinja–Mabira–Kampala, Malaba–Kamuli–Kayunga–Jinja–Kampala, and Malaba–Tororo–Lira–Karuma–Masindi–Luweero–Kampala corridors.
Given Uganda’s landlocked geography, access to fast and reliable international internet depends heavily on cross-border fibre. The newly inaugurated route offers the most direct connection between Kampala and the Kenya–Uganda border, capitalising on Bayobab Kenya’s infrastructure to reach subsea cable facilities in Mombasa. This introduces a valuable alternative to legacy fibre systems, enhancing route diversity, lowering latency, and boosting network resilience.
Julianne Mweheire, director of industry affairs and content development at the Uganda Communications Commission, welcomed the advancement, noting its alignment with the country’s national objectives.“The new route adds to the existing fibre network, connecting Uganda to the Kenya border and should increase on the already existing redundancy of connectivity access for Uganda as a whole. This launch aligns perfectly with Uganda’s national agenda to digitise services, expand connectivity, and close the gap between urban and rural access.”
Sylvia Mulinge, CEO of MTN Uganda, highlighted the route’s transformative potential in unlocking digital opportunities for all Ugandans. “Imagine a startup in Lira testing its mobile app on cloud platforms without delays. A farmer in Kayunga checking real-time weather patterns to guide planting decisions. A remote school in Kisoro livestreaming science lessons from a national university. This is what a modern connected life looks like, and this is what we are enabling,” Mulinge said.
With over 1 terabyte of capacity, the new Bayobab fibre route connects major data centres in Kampala — including Raxio, Airtel House, and MTN Uganda — facilitating improved interconnection for service providers and hyperscalers. It addresses rising demand for reliable connectivity from telecom operators, ISPs, and global tech firms.
Bayobab continues to invest in high-impact, secure infrastructure projects that support digital transformation and economic growth. This latest cross-border fibre link underscores the company’s commitment to enabling Africa’s digital future by connecting communities, markets, and enterprises across the continent.
Intelsat empowers Mali’s digital future with satellite 4G rollout
Intelsat has partnered with Orange Mali to design and deploy an innovative satellite-powered solution aimed at overcoming Mali’s extensive geographic and logistical challenges
The collaboration has resulted in a milestone achievement: the first successful deployment of a satellite-powered 4G network in Francophone West Africa.
This transformative project was built on strong local partnerships and a deep understanding of Mali’s existing infrastructure and unique connectivity needs. By leveraging the capabilities of the Intelsat 23 (IS-23) and Intelsat 10-02 (IS-1002) satellites, Intelsat was able to deliver reliable 3G and 4G connectivity to some of the most remote regions of the country.
To ensure network resilience, Intelsat selected robust, field-proven equipment designed to withstand Mali’s challenging climate and terrain. The company managed every aspect of the network’s installation and operation, allowing Orange Mali to concentrate on its core business. By utilising existing infrastructure where feasible, Intelsat accelerated the deployment timeline and kept implementation costs in check.
Sustaining reliable service is a priority, with Intelsat and its partners providing round-the-clock in-country technical support. Proactive monitoring enables early issue detection and resolution—often before customers experience any disruption. Network experts specialising in VSAT and RAN technologies are also available to assist Orange Mali in optimising performance and efficiency.
The results have been far-reaching. Orange Mali’s satellite capacity has surged from 200 Mbps to over 5 Gbps, supporting connectivity across more than 60 remote sites in 30 regions. More than 360,000 people in previously unreachable areas now have access to mobile and internet services. This expanded connectivity has spurred economic growth, enhanced personal and professional opportunities, and improved quality of life across the country.
In the southern village of Kabala, reliable internet access has created new jobs and enabled local entrepreneurship. In northern Mali, improved communication has encouraged displaced populations to return, restoring community ties. Meanwhile, women across the country are gaining greater access to land, technology, finance, and markets—broadening their contributions to economic development.
For Orange Mali, the enhanced satellite infrastructure has opened doors to new service offerings tailored to businesses and enterprises, reinforcing its position as a key player in Mali’s digital evolution.
This landmark deployment not only connects rural communities but also lays the foundation for broader socio-economic transformation powered by digital inclusion.
This article is based on insights and information from Intelsat’s case study “Bridging Mali’s Digital Divide.” For full details and further information, please visit the original case study at: https://www.intelsat.com/resources/case-studies/bridging-malis-digital-divide/
Eutelsat and InterSAT expand satellite partnership to boost fixed data services across Eastern and Central Africa. (Image source: InterSAT)
Eutelsat Group has renewed and expanded its collaboration with InterSAT through a new multi-year agreement for Ku-band capacity on the EUTELSAT 7C satellite
This renewed commitment enables InterSAT to strengthen its fixed data service delivery across Central and Eastern Africa. In addition to the new contract, InterSAT has extended its current agreement on the EUTELSAT 70B satellite. Both companies are also in active discussions to incorporate OneWeb’s low Earth orbit (LEO) capacity to support services in East Africa.
InterSAT Communication Services, a prominent satellite-based internet solutions provider in Africa, serves a wide range of clients including government agencies, corporate institutions, and private enterprises.
The EUTELSAT 7C satellite, stationed at 7° East, delivers robust coverage for African markets, while EUTELSAT 70B at 70.5° East offers extensive reach with four high-performance fixed beams and high on-board connectivity.
“We are delighted to deepen our relationship with our long-standing partner, InterSAT, to support their growth in Africa. This partnership highlights the ongoing relevance of our powerful geostationary in-orbit assets to deliver a cost-effective and reliable connectivity service to the remotest areas. Furthermore, we are excited to discuss the possibility of adding LEO capacity to further optimize the service offering,” said Philippe Baudrier, vice-president for Connectivity, Africa at Eutelsat OneWeb.
Hanif Kassam, CEO of InterSAT, added, “With their optimal orbital locations over Africa, EUTELSAT E7C and E70B provide InterSAT with wide coverage and efficiency across the Horizon. Additionally, our state-of-the-art Teleport investments leveraged in this solution provide growth capabilities for our diverse customers in the region. We look forward to adding One Web to our service portfolio whereby our customers across the African Continent can benefit from low-latency and reliable connectivity.”
Cassava and Zindi unite to expand GPUaaS access and foster AI development across the African continent
Bayobab enhances East Africa’s connectivity with resilient cross-border fibre via railway infrastructure
Sub-Saharan Africa remains the most active region for mobile money, with East and West Africa seeing the highest growth in registered accounts and monthly usage. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The ‘State of the Industry Report on Mobile Money 2025’, published by the GSMA Mobile Money programme, highlights two major milestones for the mobile money industry in 2024—crossing two billion registered accounts and more than half a billion active monthly users worldwide
This marks a significant acceleration in adoption, as it took the industry 18 years to reach one billion registered accounts and 250 million active users, but only five more years to double that growth.
According to the report, transaction volumes and values saw strong double-digit increases in 2024. An estimated 108 billion transactions, worth over US$1.68 trillion, were processed through mobile money accounts. Compared to 2023, transaction volumes surged by 20%, while values rose by 16%, up from 13% the previous year.
Vivek Badrinath, GSMA director general, commented, “Mobile money has emerged as a powerful driver of financial inclusion and economic growth. Its continued success depends on supportive regulatory environments that promote innovation, accessibility and help unlock the full socio-economic potential. To ensure mobile money remains accessible, affordable, and safe, it is vital for governments and regulators to work with financial service providers to support financial literacy programs, empowering underserved populations and opening new opportunities for financial decision-making.”
Sub-Saharan Africa leads
The report also underlines mobile money’s growing economic impact. By the end of 2023, countries offering mobile money services experienced a collective GDP that was over US$720bn higher than it would have been without them, translating to a 1.7% increase. Sub-Saharan Africa alone accounted for US$190bn of this, affirming the region’s leading role in mobile money innovation.
Sub-Saharan Africa remains the most active region for mobile money, with East and West Africa seeing the highest growth in registered accounts and monthly usage. In 2024, East Africa led monthly active account growth, followed by Southeast Asia and West Africa. The East Asia-Pacific region also made significant gains, ranking second in growth of monthly active accounts—driven by favourable regulatory conditions in Cambodia, Fiji, the Philippines, and Vietnam.
According to the GSMA, providers in East Asia and the Pacific are increasingly evolving into full-service financial platforms. “The most successful providers are often those who are actively innovating the breadth of their offerings,” the report noted.
Mobile money services have expanded to include adjacent financial products like credit, savings, and insurance. As of June 2024, 44% of providers offered credit—making it the most common—while about a third offered savings, and 28% provided insurance products.
Despite this momentum, the report flags ongoing adoption challenges, particularly among women. Of the 12 countries surveyed, eight still report a gender gap in mobile money ownership, with minimal improvement since 2023. Barriers such as limited awareness and low digital financial literacy persist—especially for women.
However, women who do own accounts are nearly as likely as men to have used them within the last 30 days. “To address these challenges,” the GSMA explained, “nearly 60% of mobile money providers have launched digital financial literacy initiatives to improve financial skills and drive adoption over time.”
MTN partners with Synamedia to offer a cloud-based streaming platform for mobile and broadband users in Africa. (Image source: MTN)
By MTN South Sudan and NCA, launching eSIM technology for improved connectivity and customer experience in South Sudan’s telecom industry. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Q-KON and Rivada Space Networks partner to deliver high-speed, secure satellite connectivity across Africa
Q-KON, a premier satellite services provider, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rivada Space Networks to bring cutting-edge connectivity solutions to Africa and beyond
This collaboration aims to drive digital transformation and expand network infrastructure across the continent.
Under the agreement, Q-KON will utilise Rivada’s Outernet—a revolutionary Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network—to enhance the reliability and security of specialised data networks, especially in sectors demanding high levels of data protection such as finance and banking. The Outernet’s multi-gigabit, bi-directional capabilities and global reach are expected to significantly boost network performance, supporting digital growth and new business opportunities.
Is Outernet ready?
With the rising importance of data sovereignty and resilience, Africa’s connectivity landscape is evolving. The Outernet promises a distinct advantage by delivering not just high-speed, low-latency service, but also robust cybersecurity infrastructure. Its architecture supports future-ready digital frameworks aligned with stringent data safety and privacy norms, fostering increased trust in digital applications and services.
Rivada’s Outernet differs from existing satellite networks by eliminating the need for data to pass through the public internet or third-party systems. It uses laser-linked satellites with onboard processing and an optical mesh structure that routes data entirely through space—from origin to destination. This unique design delivers ultra-secure, low-latency global connectivity, outperforming traditional terrestrial fibre on long routes.
Dr Dawie de Wet, Group CEO of Q-KON, said, “We are pleased to start working with Rivada to develop specialized LEO solutions for the advanced enterprise, industry and government markets in Africa and to complement our growing Twoobii LEO Smart Satellite Services portfolio. We view the Outernet as an evolution on the LEO architecture roadmap that will follow-on and advance the industry from the classic broadband LEO services currently being deployed in Africa, to unlock bespoke applications and high security service-specific user applications.”
Declan Ganley, CEO of Rivada Space Networks, concluded, “We are delighted to be partnering with Q-KON supporting the development of communications across Africa. Rivada’s Outernet is what data communications has been waiting for – a game-changing constellation which re-defines connectivity in terms of security, latency, capacity, efficiency, and coverage. As a completely new type of LEO constellation, the Outernet can provide Africa with a next-generation digital infrastructure for secure, resilient communications and network expansion.”
Intelsat empowers Mali’s digital future with satellite 4G rollout
Vox joins Q-KON as a OneWeb Partner, enhancing LEO satellite connectivity options for enterprise customers in Southern Africa. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
EU and Botswana partner to boost digital skills, governance, and inclusion through strategic collaboration
The European Union (EU) and the Government of Botswana are set to formally launch the Digital Transformation Support Programme, a major initiative aimed at advancing Botswana’s transition into a knowledge-based economy
This initiative is part of the EU’s broader Global Gateway strategy, which seeks to strengthen smart, clean, and secure connectivity across the digital, energy, and transport sectors globally, while also enhancing systems in health, education, and research. Aligned with Botswana’s own digital ambitions, the programme underscores the robust and evolving partnership between Botswana and the EU.
The official launch, scheduled for May 6, will showcase key milestones already achieved through the EU-Botswana digital collaboration. It will also present the programme’s strategic goals: building digital skills and entrepreneurship, improving digital governance, and ensuring inclusive access to digital public services—especially for youth, women, and marginalised communities.
Drawing from Europe’s experience in digital governance, regulatory transformation, and entrepreneurial innovation, the programme has been tailored to align with Botswana’s specific development goals. Its implementation will be supported by Team Europe partners—France, Estonia, and Finland—who will provide technical know-how and investment to help power Botswana’s digital future.
The launch event will bring together high-level participants, including the ministers for state president, communication and innovation, senior government representatives, EU and Team Europe delegates, civil society actors, and private sector stakeholders—demonstrating a whole-of-society commitment to Botswana’s digital transformation journey.
James Saruchera, co-founder of Afrik. (Image source: Afrik)
The company has introduced its adaptable payment platform (CS+) to the South African market, bringing scalable, agile solutions tailored for business growth
Huawei supports African TowerCos with sustainable energy solutions and diversification strategies for telecom infrastructure. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Huawei, a global leader in ICT infrastructure and smart devices, has announced its commitment to assisting Tower Companies (TowerCos) in Africa in diversifying their energy sources and adopting sustainable energy practices for powering telecom infrastructure
This initiative aims to help TowerCos reduce their carbon emissions, improve operational efficiency, and explore new business opportunities.
During his speech, "Lighting Up the Road to Multiple Business Future for TowerCos," delivered at the TowerXchange Meetup Africa 2024 in Nairobi, Li Shaolong, president of site power facility domain at Huawei Digital Power, noted that Africa is accelerating the development of ICT infrastructure. TowerCos, as key players in this process, are facing new challenges and opportunities.
“As mobile connectivity demand rises, TowerCos are under increasing pressure to ensure energy reliability and sustainability, especially in areas with limited grid access. Tower sites, often in remote locations, depend heavily on diesel generators, which are costly, environmentally harmful, and vulnerable to fuel supply issues. Huawei’s energy solutions address these challenges by incorporating renewable energy technologies like solar power and advanced energy storage systems,” Li explained.
He emphasised Huawei's long-term commitment to helping Africa's TowerCos transition to greener energy solutions, leveraging the integration of digital and power electronics technologies. Huawei Site Power Facility aims to provide TowerCos with comprehensive energy infrastructure and intelligent operations and maintenance (O&M) solutions.
A path to diversification
In addition to energy sustainability, Huawei is supporting TowerCos in their efforts to diversify by helping them explore new business models and revenue streams.
“This will drive TowerCos to become energy producers through innovative solutions and business models, leading to diversified business development, revenue growth, and sustained success in energy operations,” Li said.
He highlighted that with Huawei's eMIMO smart power solution, TowerCos can centrally manage multiple energy inputs—such as grid power, photovoltaics (PV), and energy storage—and multiple outputs ranging from 12V to 220V devices through a single platform.
“In this way, revenue-generating services like environmental protection and emergency response can be developed alongside communications services,” he said.
Li further stated that Huawei Site Power Facility Domain's main goals are to support network evolution, increase tenancy ratios, help TowerCos reduce energy costs while achieving green development, improve power availability, and reduce site O&M costs.
“Huawei will continue collaborating with TowerCos to innovate and advance energy infrastructure towards a 'green, simple, and intelligent' future, accelerating the growth of African carrier networks and contributing to a digital Africa,” Li added.
Africa Data Centres & DPA SA pioneer solar farm for sustainable data solutions in South Africa. (Image source: African Data Centres)
Airtel Africa launches Nxtra Data Center in Lagos, advancing data sovereignty and connectivity for businesses, governments, and large corporations across Africa. (Image source: Airtel Africa)
Sectigo partners with Altron Security to enhance digital certificate management and ensure secure migrations
Sectigo, a global leader in digital certificates and automated Certificate Lifecycle Management (CLM), has entered into a strategic channel partnership with Altron Security, a South African provider of comprehensive identity and digital security solutions
This collaboration enables Altron Security to integrate Sectigo's cloud-native CLM offerings into its existing digital certificate management services, helping mitigate the risks associated with mismanaged certificates. As a result, businesses can enhance their security and future-proof their operations against the challenges posed by quantum technologies.
In addition to expanding their offering, this partnership follows Sectigo’s acquisition of the Entrust public certificate business, which ensures a seamless transition for Entrust customers. With a structured migration plan in place, Sectigo is committed to providing trusted CLM solutions that minimise disruption and guide affected customers through the transition process smoothly.
"We look forward to collaborating with Altron Security as we expand our footprint in South Africa,” said Jairo Fraile, vice-president of global partner sales at Sectigo. “This partnership reinforces our dedication to providing trusted and compliant SSL/TLS certificates and PKI solutions. By working closely with Altron Security, we are ensuring that customers experience a smooth migration process to Sectigo while benefiting from our range of offerings."
As digital certificates become increasingly integral to online security, businesses face the growing challenge of adapting to the shortening lifespan of certificates. The shift from 398-day to 47-day certificate renewal periods demands greater automation in managing Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) environments. Through this partnership, Altron Security is now able to offer Sectigo’s flagship product, the Sectigo Certificate Manager. This solution provides the necessary automation and security to prevent lapses, ensuring businesses remain compliant and secure in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
"We are excited to partner with Sectigo, a globally recognized Certificate Authority renowned for its industry leadership,” said Andrew Whittaker, managing director at Altron Security. “Sectigo's significant presence in the CA/Browser Forum underscores its commitment to upholding the highest security standards, ensuring the delivery of trusted and compliant SSL/TLS certificates. With the shortening of certificate lifespans and increasing security challenges presented by the quantum era, this partnership allows us to provide advanced CLM solutions to the market, empowering businesses to navigate evolving cybersecurity demands confidently.”
This partnership strengthens Altron Security’s position in the digital trust market and supports its broader cybersecurity strategy:
1. Strengthening Market Leadership in Digital Trust:
Altron Security has been a leader in delivering digital trust solutions in South Africa for over 15 years. This new partnership with Sectigo further cements its position at the forefront of the market. It builds upon Altron Security’s existing SSL/TLS certificates and PKI offerings, ensuring they meet the highest industry standards for security and compliance.
2. Expanding Cybersecurity Portfolio:
The integration of Sectigo Certificate Manager enhances Altron Security’s certificate management services, bringing deeper automation and scalability. This allows businesses to reduce operational strain, mitigate risks, and maintain compliance with increasingly complex cybersecurity requirements.
3. Enhancing Customer Experience & Trust:
The partnership presents a significant opportunity for Altron Security to strengthen its relationships with customers, especially during the transition from Entrust to Sectigo. By ensuring a smooth migration process and offering long-term stability through Sectigo’s trusted certificate authority services, Altron Security continues to provide reliable, scalable, and secure digital solutions that cater to a wide range of industries.
With this strategic partnership, Sectigo and Altron Security are well-positioned to meet the growing demand for digital certificate management solutions, offering businesses the tools needed to stay secure and compliant in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
NETSCOUT’s latest report highlights evolving, complex DDoS attacks targeting key sectors across southern Africa. (Image source: NETSCOUT)
Kaspersky and Smart Africa collaborate to enhance cybersecurity skills, policies, and infrastructure, strengthening Africa’s digital security landscape. (Image source: Kaspersky)
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Qualcomm empowers African tech startups with mentorship. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
GSMA's 2024 report reveals the transformative impact of mobile technology in Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting key challenges and growth opportunities. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
By MTN South Sudan and NCA, launching eSIM technology for improved connectivity and customer experience in South Sudan’s telecom industry. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Siemon's new LightStack and LightStack 8 offer cutting-edge ultra-high-density fibre solutions for data centers and enterprise networks, available globally. (Image source: Siemon)
For Ghanaian customers, this license means more efficient and secure money transfers across the country. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Angola Cables Network traffic climbs to record peak. (Image source: Angola Cables)
The introduction of Network One in Nigeria aligns with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s directive for in-country transaction routing, boosting local processing capabilities. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
OADC Texaf Digital - Kinshasa, a 2MW open-access, Tier-III data centre, boosts DRC's digital ecosystem with carrier-neutral, sustainable infrastructure. (Image source: Open Access Data Centres)
Eutelsat Group has a fleet of 35 GEO satellites and a constellation of more than 600 LEO satellites. (Image source: OneWeb)
Vodacom and Orange collaborate to build solar-powered towers in DRC, expanding telecom services to 19 million underserved people. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Teraco’s JB7 hyperscale data centre accelerates digital transformation and sustainable interconnection across sub-Saharan Africa's cloud ecosystem. (Image source: Teraco)
BradyVoice offers a faster, more efficient way to label. (Image source: Brady Corporation)
Spirion expands global presence with new data center in South Africa, supporting compliance and data protection. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
AfriLabs welcomes new hubs to its thriving innovation community, spanning across Africa. (Image source: AfriLabs)
Latest news
Eutelsat and InterSAT expand satellite partnership to boost fixed data services across Eastern and Central Africa. (Image source: InterSAT)
Q-KON and Rivada Space Networks partner to deliver high-speed, secure satellite connectivity across Africa
Cassava and Zindi unite to expand GPUaaS access and foster AI development across the African continent
Sectigo partners with Altron Security to enhance digital certificate management and ensure secure migrations
Bayobab enhances East Africa’s connectivity with resilient cross-border fibre via railway infrastructure
Bayobab Uganda launches Kampala-Malaba fibre route, boosting East Africa’s digital connectivity backbone
Intelsat empowers Mali’s digital future with satellite 4G rollout
This collaboration is set to improve high-speed connectivity for businesses, enterprises, and underserved socio-economic communities
EU and Botswana partner to boost digital skills, governance, and inclusion through strategic collaboration
James Saruchera, co-founder of Afrik. (Image source: Afrik)
MTN's subscribers are on the rise (Image source: Adobe Stock).
Morocco is bracing for an influx of tourists (Image source: Adobe Stock).
Orange and Camusat team up to cut CO₂ emissions from telecom infrastructure and advance net zero goals
The company has introduced its adaptable payment platform (CS+) to the South African market, bringing scalable, agile solutions tailored for business growth
IEA warns AI-driven data centre growth could strain sub-Saharan Africa’s already limited power capacity and supply chains
More Articles
Eutelsat and InterSAT expand satellite partnership to boost fixed data services across Eastern and Central Africa. (Image source: InterSAT)
Q-KON and Rivada Space Networks partner to deliver high-speed, secure satellite connectivity across Africa
Cassava and Zindi unite to expand GPUaaS access and foster AI development across the African continent
Sectigo partners with Altron Security to enhance digital certificate management and ensure secure migrations
Bayobab enhances East Africa’s connectivity with resilient cross-border fibre via railway infrastructure
Bayobab Uganda launches Kampala-Malaba fibre route, boosting East Africa’s digital connectivity backbone
Intelsat empowers Mali’s digital future with satellite 4G rollout
This collaboration is set to improve high-speed connectivity for businesses, enterprises, and underserved socio-economic communities
EU and Botswana partner to boost digital skills, governance, and inclusion through strategic collaboration
James Saruchera, co-founder of Afrik. (Image source: Afrik)
Connect Xperience to spotlight scalable cloud solutions tailored for Nigeria’s evolving digital economy
MTN's subscribers are on the rise (Image source: Adobe Stock).