In The Spotlight
This project will connect around 8,000 public institutions to broadband and provide over one million people with improved Internet access. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
World Bank funds Togo's digitalisation
The World Bank has approved an initial US$100mn financing (approx. FCFA 62 billion) under the International Development Association to support Togo's efforts to leverage digital technologies for growth, job creation, and sector competitiveness
This investment is part of a broader programmatic initiative aimed at advancing digital inclusion through enhanced broadband connectivity, skill development, entrepreneurship, and climate-resilient technology adoption.
This project will connect around 8,000 public institutions to broadband and provide over one million people with improved Internet access. It also aims to encourage private sector investment to expand connectivity for households and businesses. In partnership with the International Finance Corporation, the initiative will enhance digital skills to improve employability and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem, making it more attractive to institutional investors. Additionally, investments in climate-resilient infrastructure and the development of climate-informed guidelines will boost energy efficiency and support climate change adaptation.
Cina Lawson, Togolese minister of digital economy and transformation, remarked, “This initiative is a game-changer for Togo, as we connect our schools, health facilities, and public institutions to the very high-speed internet, unlocking opportunities for innovation and progress. By empowering our youth with digital skills and fostering an environment for entrepreneurship, we are laying the groundwork for a more competitive and resilient economy.”
Aligned with Togo’s development roadmap and the World Bank’s new country partnership framework, this initiative supports digital transformation as a key driver of inclusive and sustainable growth.
The World Bank resident representative for Togo, Fily Sissoko, stated, “By focusing on digital technologies, we aim to support the Government’s strategy to accelerate the country’s economic transformation, boost productivity and innovation. This will be achieved by connecting health and education facilities to Internet and helping people, especially young people and women, access educational content and develop digital skills and entrepreneurship."
This partnership highlights Safaricom M-PESA’s dedication to expanding digital financial inclusion in Ethiopia. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Safaricom, Nyala Insurance launch mobile insurance payments
Safaricom M-PESA has entered into a strategic partnership with Nyala Insurance, integrating the insurer into the M-PESA ecosystem
This collaboration enables Nyala Insurance customers to use M-PESA for premium payments, policy renewals, and other transactions, offering a secure and efficient mobile payment solution.
Through this initiative, customers will benefit from faster, more accessible insurance payment options, driving the adoption of mobile financial services across Ethiopia. Nyala Insurance will leverage the M-PESA platform to accept real-time payments, broadening its reach, streamlining processes, and providing clients with greater flexibility.
Elsa Muzzolini, chief digital financial services officer at Safaricom M-PESA, remarked, “This partnership underscores our commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s digital economy by providing businesses like Nyala Insurance with the digital tools they need to connect with customers in a more efficient way and enables mobile payments to be more accessible, convenient and time saving.”
Echoing this sentiment, Ato Tegegn Masresha, chief customer officer at Nyala Insurance, stated, “We are thrilled to partner with Safaricom M-PESA, a leader in digital financial services in Kenya with a promising foothold in Ethiopia. This collaboration allows us to deliver unparalleled convenience to our customers, enabling them to access our services seamlessly and securely through M-PESA. By leveraging this partnership, we are reinforcing our commitment to innovation and enhancing customer satisfaction by making insurance transactions simpler and more efficient.”
This partnership highlights Safaricom M-PESA’s dedication to expanding digital financial inclusion in Ethiopia. By collaborating with local businesses, it continues to support the country’s digital transformation, ensuring tailored solutions that empower Ethiopian consumers and businesses to thrive in the digital economy.
Safaricom Ethiopia expands network to Assosa, introducing M-PESA and donating laptops and routers to schools, enhancing connectivity and education. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Safaricom expands network, supports communities
Safaricom Ethiopia has extended its network to Assosa, marking a significant step in its mission to deliver reliable and high-quality connectivity across Ethiopia
In the past two weeks, the company has launched services in several key cities in Western Ethiopia, including Nekemte, Gambella, Metu, and Bedele. The Assosa launch further strengthens its presence in the region. Since starting operations in Ethiopia over two years ago, Safaricom has achieved remarkable network coverage, now reaching 50% of the Ethiopian population across Central, Northern, Southern, Eastern, and Western areas.
The rollout of M-PESA digital financial solutions in these areas will provide residents with secure, convenient, and cost-effective ways to manage financial transactions. This initiative reflects Safaricom’s broader mission to support social and economic growth through technological advancement.
To give back to the community, Safaricom has donated 80 laptops, 16 routers, and six months of free unlimited internet to schools in Assosa, Nekemte, Gambella, Metu, and Bedele. This initiative highlights the company’s dedication to combining network expansion with impactful community projects.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to local leaders and government officials, whose support has been instrumental in making these launches possible. Safaricom Ethiopia remains committed to connecting people and fostering development across Ethiopia,” the company stated in its press release.
ZTE and MTN South Africa showcase 5G-A technology with record-breaking speeds, innovative applications, and future-ready advancements. (Image source: ZTE Corporation)
Rui Faria represents Angola Cables on a global advisory body to strengthen submarine cable infrastructure and boost West Africa's connectivity. (Image source: Angola Cables)
Angola Cables strengthens submarine cable resilience
Angola Cables, a globally recognised provider of ICT, digital solutions, and network services, proudly announces the appointment of executive board member and chief commercial officer Rui Faria to the newly established International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience
This appointment places Angola Cables at the forefront of addressing a critical issue, following significant internet outages across several African nations earlier this year due to damage to undersea cables along the West African coastline. These incidents have highlighted the urgent need for robust infrastructure to support the region’s increasing reliance on digital networks for economic growth, trade, and innovation.
The International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience, formed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations Agency for Digital Technologies, and the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC), is dedicated to improving the safety and reliability of submarine cables. These cables are essential to global and regional connectivity, enabling over 99% of international data exchange, including communication, financial transactions, cloud services, and digital economies. The 42-member advisory group comprises government officials, regulatory authorities, industry leaders, and experts in telecommunication cables.
Faria, with over three decades of experience in Africa’s subsea cable sector, was invited by the Angolan Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technologies, and Social Communication (MINTTICS) to contribute to this critical initiative. The government aims to diversify Angola’s economy and enhance its telecom infrastructure.
“West Africa’s recent experience with submarine cable failures has highlighted the fragility of our connectivity networks and the critical need for proactive solutions. As part of the International Advisory Body, we will work towards identifying vulnerabilities and implementing measures to ensure these vital cables remain operational and resilient. Strengthened collaboration and innovation will help mitigate disruptions and secure West Africa’s digital future,” said Faria.
Fernando Fernandes, CEO of TelCables Nigeria, a subsidiary of Angola Cables, emphasised the significance of this development for the region: “We are honoured that Rui has been selected to represent West Africa on the Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience. Submarine cables are the foundation of modern economies, and their stability is paramount for enabling global and regional growth. We believe this initiative will go a long way towards building resilience, ensuring uninterrupted worldwide connectivity, and unlocking new economic opportunities for West Africa.”
Angola Cables’ involvement in the Advisory Body underscores its commitment to protecting essential telecom infrastructure and promoting regional and national development. The company also supports scientific research into naturally occurring cable failures, including groundbreaking studies by the Department of Geography and Earth Science at Durham University, focusing on the Congo River Canyon Crossing in West Africa.
“Consultation, cooperation, and collaboration between countries and all technical and scientific stakeholders will ensure that we can implement better measures to safeguard submarine cable infrastructure and the integrity of the undersea data corridors, the lifeblood of our global, digital-enabled economy. On a regional front, they will enable West Africa to remain connected, competitive, and positioned for sustained digital and economic growth,” concluded Faria.
Safaricom Ethiopia brings 4G connectivity to Gambella City, boosting education, infrastructure, and investment potential in the region. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Safaricom expands network to Gambella
Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC has officially launched its network in Gambella City and surrounding areas, marking a major milestone in its mission to provide fast 4G data connectivity across Ethiopia
Safaricom Ethiopia’s CEO, Wim Vanhelleputte, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the country, expressing excitement about welcoming Gambella into the 07 Family.
Alemitu Oumud, president of the Gambella Region, underscored the transformative effects of enhanced infrastructure on the region’s social and economic progress.
“We commend Safaricom Ethiopia for its role in creating jobs, enhancing connectivity, and positioning Gambella as an attractive destination for investment,” remarked Oumud.
As part of its dedication to fostering digital education, the company donated 20 laptops and 4 routers with six months of free internet to two high schools in Gambella City. This initiative aims to promote digital literacy and broaden educational opportunities for the region’s youth.
Nokia and Turkcell pioneer quantum-safe cryptography, securing mobile networks today and preparing for future quantum computing threats. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Nokia secures mobile networks with quantum cryptography
Nokia and Turkcell have achieved milestone by demonstrating the world’s first implementation of quantum-safe IPsec network cryptography for mobile subscribers
This achievement is a significant step forward in protecting mobile networks from future quantum computing threats. By adopting cutting-edge cryptographic standards, Nokia and Turkcell are proactively strengthening network security to ensure long-term resilience in mobile communications.
The rise of quantum computing poses serious risks to traditional cryptography, potentially enabling quantum attacks that can bypass current security measures. As this technology evolves, it is crucial for networks to adopt robust solutions to mitigate these emerging threats.
Safeguarding mobile communications
Turkcell’s mobile transport network now features quantum-safe IPsec cryptography, integrated as part of a defense-in-depth, crypto-resilient strategy. This landmark demonstration utilised Nokia’s widely deployed IPsec Security Gateway, showcasing its ability to safeguard critical data against quantum-era threats.
By embracing advanced cryptographic techniques, Nokia and Turkcell are not only enhancing security for today but also preparing for technological advancements in the future. Mobile users can trust that their communications remain protected now and in the years ahead.
Dr Vehbi Çağrı Güngör, Turkcell chief network technologies officer, remarked, “This test represents a significant milestone in the evolution of our network security. As part of our strategy to continually enhance the security of our mobile network, this collaboration with Nokia provides us with the confidence that our transport security can withstand the challenges of the quantum era. By demonstrating these quantum-safe cryptography capabilities today, we are preparing our network for the future.”
Rafael De Fermin, senior vice-president of Network Infrastructure Europe, Nokia, added, “Through our collaboration with Turkcell we’ve shown how our quantum-safe IPsec technology can protect mobile networks against the evolving security threat landscape. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to safeguard the privacy and integrity of mobile technology. Our solutions provide a proactive defense-in-depth crypto-resilient approach against future network security challenges, ensuring that Turkcell’s network remains secure for years to come.”
This achievement underscores Nokia’s leadership in network security, particularly in the mobile telecom sector. The implementation of quantum-safe cryptography reinforces Nokia’s role at the forefront of creating secure, reliable network infrastructures. It also reflects the company’s dedication to addressing risks associated with emerging technologies like quantum computing.
This partnership highlights Safaricom M-PESA’s dedication to expanding digital financial inclusion in Ethiopia. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Safaricom, Nyala Insurance launch mobile insurance payments
Safaricom M-PESA has entered into a strategic partnership with Nyala Insurance, integrating the insurer into the M-PESA ecosystem
This collaboration enables Nyala Insurance customers to use M-PESA for premium payments, policy renewals, and other transactions, offering a secure and efficient mobile payment solution.
Through this initiative, customers will benefit from faster, more accessible insurance payment options, driving the adoption of mobile financial services across Ethiopia. Nyala Insurance will leverage the M-PESA platform to accept real-time payments, broadening its reach, streamlining processes, and providing clients with greater flexibility.
Elsa Muzzolini, chief digital financial services officer at Safaricom M-PESA, remarked, “This partnership underscores our commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s digital economy by providing businesses like Nyala Insurance with the digital tools they need to connect with customers in a more efficient way and enables mobile payments to be more accessible, convenient and time saving.”
Echoing this sentiment, Ato Tegegn Masresha, chief customer officer at Nyala Insurance, stated, “We are thrilled to partner with Safaricom M-PESA, a leader in digital financial services in Kenya with a promising foothold in Ethiopia. This collaboration allows us to deliver unparalleled convenience to our customers, enabling them to access our services seamlessly and securely through M-PESA. By leveraging this partnership, we are reinforcing our commitment to innovation and enhancing customer satisfaction by making insurance transactions simpler and more efficient.”
This partnership highlights Safaricom M-PESA’s dedication to expanding digital financial inclusion in Ethiopia. By collaborating with local businesses, it continues to support the country’s digital transformation, ensuring tailored solutions that empower Ethiopian consumers and businesses to thrive in the digital economy.
Safaricom Ethiopia expands network to Assosa, introducing M-PESA and donating laptops and routers to schools, enhancing connectivity and education. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
ZTE and MTN South Africa showcase 5G-A technology with record-breaking speeds, innovative applications, and future-ready advancements. (Image source: ZTE Corporation)
Nokia and Turkcell pioneer quantum-safe cryptography, securing mobile networks today and preparing for future quantum computing threats. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Nokia secures mobile networks with quantum cryptography
Nokia and Turkcell have achieved milestone by demonstrating the world’s first implementation of quantum-safe IPsec network cryptography for mobile subscribers
This achievement is a significant step forward in protecting mobile networks from future quantum computing threats. By adopting cutting-edge cryptographic standards, Nokia and Turkcell are proactively strengthening network security to ensure long-term resilience in mobile communications.
The rise of quantum computing poses serious risks to traditional cryptography, potentially enabling quantum attacks that can bypass current security measures. As this technology evolves, it is crucial for networks to adopt robust solutions to mitigate these emerging threats.
Safeguarding mobile communications
Turkcell’s mobile transport network now features quantum-safe IPsec cryptography, integrated as part of a defense-in-depth, crypto-resilient strategy. This landmark demonstration utilised Nokia’s widely deployed IPsec Security Gateway, showcasing its ability to safeguard critical data against quantum-era threats.
By embracing advanced cryptographic techniques, Nokia and Turkcell are not only enhancing security for today but also preparing for technological advancements in the future. Mobile users can trust that their communications remain protected now and in the years ahead.
Dr Vehbi Çağrı Güngör, Turkcell chief network technologies officer, remarked, “This test represents a significant milestone in the evolution of our network security. As part of our strategy to continually enhance the security of our mobile network, this collaboration with Nokia provides us with the confidence that our transport security can withstand the challenges of the quantum era. By demonstrating these quantum-safe cryptography capabilities today, we are preparing our network for the future.”
Rafael De Fermin, senior vice-president of Network Infrastructure Europe, Nokia, added, “Through our collaboration with Turkcell we’ve shown how our quantum-safe IPsec technology can protect mobile networks against the evolving security threat landscape. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to safeguard the privacy and integrity of mobile technology. Our solutions provide a proactive defense-in-depth crypto-resilient approach against future network security challenges, ensuring that Turkcell’s network remains secure for years to come.”
This achievement underscores Nokia’s leadership in network security, particularly in the mobile telecom sector. The implementation of quantum-safe cryptography reinforces Nokia’s role at the forefront of creating secure, reliable network infrastructures. It also reflects the company’s dedication to addressing risks associated with emerging technologies like quantum computing.
Djezzy and Algeria Telecom form partnership to elevate services, enhance quality, and drive ICT growth in Algeria. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
MTN South Africa partners with KnowRoaming to introduce the Travel eSIM, offering cost-effective data roaming across 150+ destinations worldwide. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Deputy minister Gina unveils South Africa's first suborbital rocket launch facility, advancing aerospace innovation, AI, and economic growth in the region. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
A new era in South African space
The deputy minister of science, technology and innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, inaugurated a suborbital sounding rocket launch facility at the Denel Overberg Test Range in the Western Cape on 3 December 2024
This groundbreaking facility, funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation and executed by the Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), marks a significant milestone for South Africa in the field of aerospace technology and innovation.
"The space infrastructure program funded by the DSTI and built by the University of KwaZulu-Natal's Aerospace Systems Research Institute is a demonstration of what the combined efforts, resources, and expertise of government, industry, and institutions of knowledge production can achieve, working together for one national goal. This facility here today is a beacon of this partnership," stated Gina.
Designed as a vital resource for next-generation aerospace projects, the facility will support advanced rocket system testing, critical research initiatives, and technological advancements in the aerospace sector.
"This gantry is a national asset that will be used to launch suborbital rockets built by ASRI but can also accommodate much larger solid-propellant vehicles of the type operated by space-faring nations, including other potential international clients on the continent and worldwide," noted Gina.
Unlike orbital launch vehicles, which are self-guided, suborbital rockets require precise aiming from a gantry tailored to specific flight trajectories, mission needs, and safety considerations.
The newly constructed launch gantry incorporates an advanced aiming and control system, allowing the boom to rotate a full 360 degrees horizontally and elevate to a vertical position. This ensures pinpoint accuracy in all directions and quick adjustments for conditions like wind shifts on launch days.
When vertical, the gantry stands as tall as a six-storey building but can be lowered horizontally during rocket loading and the installation of ground support systems for fueling and launching operations.
Mike Brooks, director of ASRI, stated, "The facility is designed to enable suborbital sounding rocket missions into the high atmosphere, and beyond into space. Many countries use sounding rockets to conduct research related to atmospheric physics, radiation, and magnetism in regions that are too high for balloons and too low for orbiting satellites.
"Sounding rockets help advance our understanding of the Earth and its atmosphere, but they are sizeable vehicles and need a purpose-built gantry from which to launch. The new facility makes it possible to launch ASRI's smaller Phoenix hybrid rockets that reach around 18 km and are used for training young engineers, but it can also accommodate much larger commercial sounding rockets that can achieve altitudes above 200 km, which is well into space," he explained.
ASRI envisions the facility as a driving force for South Africa's national priorities, including economic growth, job creation, and skills development. By fostering innovation in aerospace technology, the facility aims to attract investments, boost local industries, and open new markets. It also aims to create highly skilled jobs and offer training opportunities for future engineers and scientists. These initiatives aim to position South Africa as a global leader in space exploration and technological advancement.
"Having a local facility from which to launch such rockets will act as a catalyst to bring rockets to South Africa for scientific missions. Importantly, it will also catalyse the local aerospace industry to develop a South African sounding rocket, as well as the payloads, onboard sensors, and subsystems that go into these advanced machines. These activities will stimulate South Africa's aerospace industry, creating new economic opportunities for the local advanced manufacturing industry," Prof. Brooks remarked.
The facility’s capabilities were showcased with successful launches of the Phoenix-1D on 2 December 2024 and the Phoenix-1E on 4 December 2024.
Cape Verde embraces Starlink's satellite internet, enhancing connectivity in underserved areas and supporting economic growth with improved infrastructure. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Intelsat confirms the total loss of its Intelsat 33e satellite after an October 19 anomaly, with service restoration plans underway for customers. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
This project will connect around 8,000 public institutions to broadband and provide over one million people with improved Internet access. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
World Bank funds Togo's digitalisation
The World Bank has approved an initial US$100mn financing (approx. FCFA 62 billion) under the International Development Association to support Togo's efforts to leverage digital technologies for growth, job creation, and sector competitiveness
This investment is part of a broader programmatic initiative aimed at advancing digital inclusion through enhanced broadband connectivity, skill development, entrepreneurship, and climate-resilient technology adoption.
This project will connect around 8,000 public institutions to broadband and provide over one million people with improved Internet access. It also aims to encourage private sector investment to expand connectivity for households and businesses. In partnership with the International Finance Corporation, the initiative will enhance digital skills to improve employability and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem, making it more attractive to institutional investors. Additionally, investments in climate-resilient infrastructure and the development of climate-informed guidelines will boost energy efficiency and support climate change adaptation.
Cina Lawson, Togolese minister of digital economy and transformation, remarked, “This initiative is a game-changer for Togo, as we connect our schools, health facilities, and public institutions to the very high-speed internet, unlocking opportunities for innovation and progress. By empowering our youth with digital skills and fostering an environment for entrepreneurship, we are laying the groundwork for a more competitive and resilient economy.”
Aligned with Togo’s development roadmap and the World Bank’s new country partnership framework, this initiative supports digital transformation as a key driver of inclusive and sustainable growth.
The World Bank resident representative for Togo, Fily Sissoko, stated, “By focusing on digital technologies, we aim to support the Government’s strategy to accelerate the country’s economic transformation, boost productivity and innovation. This will be achieved by connecting health and education facilities to Internet and helping people, especially young people and women, access educational content and develop digital skills and entrepreneurship."
Rui Faria represents Angola Cables on a global advisory body to strengthen submarine cable infrastructure and boost West Africa's connectivity. (Image source: Angola Cables)
Safaricom Ethiopia brings 4G connectivity to Gambella City, boosting education, infrastructure, and investment potential in the region. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Huawei supports African TowerCos with sustainable energy solutions and diversification strategies for telecom infrastructure. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Huawei aids African TowerCos in green energy
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)
Cynoia wins Best SaaS Startup at AfricArena Summit 2024, revolutionizing African team collaboration with AI and cost-effective solutions. (Image source: Cynoia)
Cynoia wins best SaaS Startup award
Cynoia, the African-built team workspace platform, has been recognised as the Best SaaS Startup at the prestigious AfricArena Grand Summit 2024, held in Cape Town
The event, now in its seventh year, is known as Africa's top tech ecosystem accelerator, drawing over 100 startups from 31 African nations.
At the Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cynoia’s chief financial officer, Manar Labidi, accepted the award after competing with 45 other startups in a competition described by AfricArena founder Christophe Viarnaud as “the stage of Africa’s future.” This recognition strengthens Cynoia’s position as a key innovator in Africa’s SaaS sector.
2024 has proven transformative for Cynoia, which enables teams to collaborate more efficiently while slashing software costs by up to 80%. With a new leadership structure, growing international recognition, and continental expansion, the company is preparing to redefine the future of African teamwork with the upcoming launch of its AI engine, Hannibal.
In an important internal promotion, Nermine Slimane transitioned from Team Lead to Chief Technology Officer, bringing valuable expertise in Cynoia’s architecture to the executive team. This allowed co-founder Ayoub Rabeh to focus on his new role as Chief Product Officer, further strengthening the company's commitment to product development. Felipe Millan also joined as Chief Marketing Officer, completing the leadership team, which prioritizes diversity with women representing 47% of the company.
"We're building something special here," remarked Nassreddine Riahi, CEO of Cynoia. "Our team is stronger than ever, and we're reaching more businesses across Africa than we imagined possible when we started. We're not just creating another collaboration tool – we're building the workspace that African teams actually need."
November saw the release of Cynoia Version 2.0, featuring upgraded project management tools, chat, video calls, and file-sharing, all within a single bandwidth-efficient platform suitable for various budgets. The company has also expanded its footprint, establishing a legal entity in Senegal and growing its user base in Ivory Coast, Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, and Rwanda. "Being closer to our users helps us understand their real needs," explained Ayoub Rabeh, chief product officer. "Every market is unique, and we’re adapting our platform accordingly, especially for areas with limited internet connectivity."
Looking ahead to 2025, Cynoia is set to launch Hannibal, its AI engine tailored for African teams. "Hannibal will make advanced AI accessible to businesses across the continent, regardless of their size or location," concluded Nermine Slimane, chief technical officer. "We’re focusing on practical AI applications that make sense for how African teams actually work."
NETSCOUT's 1H2024 report highlights rising DDoS attacks in Northern Africa, urging nations to enhance cybersecurity for critical infrastructure resilience. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
KnowBe4 predicts 2025 cybersecurity trends, highlighting AI's dual role, ransomware threats, and Africa's cybercrime-human trafficking intersection. (Image source: KnowBe4)
Most Read
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)
Angola Cables Network traffic climbs to record peak. (Image source: Angola Cables)
For Ghanaian customers, this license means more efficient and secure money transfers across the country. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
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)
BradyVoice offers a faster, more efficient way to label. (Image source: Brady Corporation)
Eutelsat Group has a fleet of 35 GEO satellites and a constellation of more than 600 LEO satellites. (Image source: OneWeb)
Teraco’s JB7 hyperscale data centre accelerates digital transformation and sustainable interconnection across sub-Saharan Africa's cloud ecosystem. (Image source: Teraco)
Nium, Ecobank partner to streamline cross-border payments, reaching 32M African customers with faster, efficient international transactions. (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)
Qualcomm empowers African tech startups with mentorship. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
The development will enable mobile service providers to deliver 5G services to their subscribers. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Grid operators rely on Brady's portable printers to ensure fast, reliable cable and cabinet identification, enhancing service restoration efficiency. (Image source: Brady Corporation)
Latest news
This project will connect around 8,000 public institutions to broadband and provide over one million people with improved Internet access. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
This partnership highlights Safaricom M-PESA’s dedication to expanding digital financial inclusion in Ethiopia. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Safaricom Ethiopia expands network to Assosa, introducing M-PESA and donating laptops and routers to schools, enhancing connectivity and education. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
ZTE and MTN South Africa showcase 5G-A technology with record-breaking speeds, innovative applications, and future-ready advancements. (Image source: ZTE Corporation)
Rui Faria represents Angola Cables on a global advisory body to strengthen submarine cable infrastructure and boost West Africa's connectivity. (Image source: Angola Cables)
Safaricom Ethiopia brings 4G connectivity to Gambella City, boosting education, infrastructure, and investment potential in the region. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Nokia and Turkcell pioneer quantum-safe cryptography, securing mobile networks today and preparing for future quantum computing threats. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Revolutionising network installations, Siemon unveils bundled fibre trunks, combining performance, durability, and ease for faster project delivery. (Image source: Siemon)
Mastercard, MTN, and Arifu collaborate to digitise small businesses in Côte d’Ivoire and Uganda, boosting their growth and resilience through MoMo Coach. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
ITU initiatives empower underserved communities with digital skills, fostering inclusion and innovation for Africa’s sustainable digital future. (Image source: ITU)
The collaboration between UnoTelos and Niral Networks is built on a shared vision to overcome the persistent infrastructure limitations that have traditionally impeded technological growth in Africa. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO of Safaricom Ethiopia, at the launch ceremony. (Image source: CIO Africa)
Managing Director, PalmPay, Chika Nwosu with Sunil Natraj, CEO, Jumia Nigeria, at the recent press conference to announce the PalmPay / Jumia partnership. (Image source: Palmpay)
Transforming West Africa's connectivity landscape with AMS-IX Lagos, driving growth, efficiency, and digital inclusion across the region. (Image source: AMS-IX Lagos)
More Articles
This project will connect around 8,000 public institutions to broadband and provide over one million people with improved Internet access. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
World Bank funds Togo's digitalisation
This partnership highlights Safaricom M-PESA’s dedication to expanding digital financial inclusion in Ethiopia. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Safaricom, Nyala Insurance launch mobile insurance payments
Safaricom Ethiopia expands network to Assosa, introducing M-PESA and donating laptops and routers to schools, enhancing connectivity and education. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Safaricom expands network, supports communities
ZTE and MTN South Africa showcase 5G-A technology with record-breaking speeds, innovative applications, and future-ready advancements. (Image source: ZTE Corporation)
ZTE, MTN launch 5G-A experience
Rui Faria represents Angola Cables on a global advisory body to strengthen submarine cable infrastructure and boost West Africa's connectivity. (Image source: Angola Cables)
Angola Cables strengthens submarine cable resilience
Safaricom Ethiopia brings 4G connectivity to Gambella City, boosting education, infrastructure, and investment potential in the region. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Safaricom expands network to Gambella
Nokia and Turkcell pioneer quantum-safe cryptography, securing mobile networks today and preparing for future quantum computing threats. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Nokia secures mobile networks with quantum cryptography
Revolutionising network installations, Siemon unveils bundled fibre trunks, combining performance, durability, and ease for faster project delivery. (Image source: Siemon)
Speed up networks with Siemon’s trunks
Mastercard, MTN, and Arifu collaborate to digitise small businesses in Côte d’Ivoire and Uganda, boosting their growth and resilience through MoMo Coach. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Transforming small businesses through digital tools
ITU initiatives empower underserved communities with digital skills, fostering inclusion and innovation for Africa’s sustainable digital future. (Image source: ITU)
ITU powers Africa's digital revolution
The collaboration between UnoTelos and Niral Networks is built on a shared vision to overcome the persistent infrastructure limitations that have traditionally impeded technological growth in Africa. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Transforming Africa’s connectivity with advanced 5G solution
Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO of Safaricom Ethiopia, at the launch ceremony. (Image source: CIO Africa)