Africa

Balancing digital sovereignty and growth in Africa discussed at IGF 2024

At the IGF 2024 preparatory session, stakeholders discussed the critical challenges surrounding digital sovereignty in developing countries, particularly in Africa. The dialogue, led by AFICTA and global experts, explored balancing data localisation with economic growth, infrastructure constraints, and regulatory policies.

Jimson Olufuye and Ulandi Exner highlighted the financial and technical hurdles of establishing local data centres, including unreliable electricity supplies and limited expertise. Nigeria‘s Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi stressed the importance of data classification, advocating for clear regulations that differentiate sensitive government data from less critical commercial information.

The conversation extended to renewable energy’s role in powering local infrastructure. Jimson Olufuye pointed to successful solar-powered centres in Nigeria, while Kossi Amessinou noted the need for governments to utilise data effectively for economic development. Participants, including Martin Koyabe and Mary Uduma, underscored the importance of harmonised regional policies to streamline cross-border data flows without compromising security.

Speakers like Melissa Sassi and Dr Toshikazu Sakano argued for public-private partnerships to foster skills development and job creation. The call for capacity building remained a recurring theme, with Rachael Shitanda and Melissa Sassi urging governments to prioritise technical training while retaining talent in their countries.

The discussion concluded on an optimistic note, acknowledging that solutions, such as renewable energy integration and smart regulations, can help achieve digital sovereignty. Speakers emphasised the need for continued collaboration to overcome economic, technical, and policy challenges while fostering innovation and growth.

All transcripts from the Internet Governance Forum sessions can be found on dig.watch.

Challenges and opportunities in Africa’s digital transformation: Data governance and sharing under scrutiny

The ongoing digital transformation across Africa has put data governance and sharing at the forefront of economic growth and innovation. In an Internet Governance Forum session titled ‘Data Without Borders? Navigating Policy Impacts in Africa’, experts emphasised the importance of harmonised data policies to support the African Union’s (AU) Data Policy Framework.

Souhila Amazouz from the African Union Commission highlighted the framework’s principles of transparency and cooperation, while Thelma Quaye of Smart Africa stressed the urgency of aligning national policies to ensure seamless cross-border data flows. Lillian Nalwoga noted the need for robust national data strategies, noting that two-thirds of African countries have data protection laws, though challenges remain in unifying national and continental interests.

The conversation revealed critical hurdles to effective data governance, including gaps in legal frameworks, limited institutional capacities, inadequate infrastructure, and cybersecurity risks. Souhila Amazouz discussed efforts to address these gaps through regional data centres and capacity-building initiatives.

Meanwhile, the concept of data localisation sparked debate. Vincent Olatunji from the Nigeria Data Protection Commission argued for practical data categorisation over full localisation, which Paul Baker (International Economics Consulting Limited) warned could burden businesses with high costs.

The balance between localisation and cross-border data sharing remains a contentious issue, particularly with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aiming to boost trade and integration across the continent.

The panellists also highlighted the importance of trust and collaboration between governments and businesses. Transparent data practices and inclusive policy development were essential to fostering confidence in data-sharing initiatives. Paul Baker noted the vital role of cross-border data flows for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), though an audience member pointed out that many countries still rely on manual systems, hampering digital progress.

Ultimately, the discussion underscored the need for a unified approach to data governance, with capacity development, infrastructure investment, and multistakeholder collaboration as key priorities. While challenges like the digital divide and data fragmentation persist, the dialogue demonstrated a collective commitment to advancing Africa’s digital transformation through effective data governance strategies.  

All transcripts from the Internet Governance Forum sessions can be found on dig.watch.

Digital bridges unlock Africa’s private sector potential

Opportunities often need to be gathered in a single place to be easily accessible and visible, and that is the purpose of innovative digital platforms, which build bridges connecting Africa’s private sector with development opportunities. Egypt’s ‘Hafiz’ platform, introduced by Tamer Taha during the IGF 2024 session ‘Building Bridges in Africa in the Digital Age‘ in Riyadh, is the basis for this purpose. Hafiz addresses the persistent information and financial gaps plaguing Egyptian companies seeking to expand into Africa. ‘We gathered the right information and financial tools in a structured way so businesses can access opportunities and grow regionally,’ said Taha, highlighting its role as a game-changer for sectors like manufacturing and construction.

The discussion, moderated by Mahitab Assran, underscored how platforms like Hafiz and Uganda’s iVenture empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups. Manija Gardizi of GIZ emphasised inclusivity, saying ‘These platforms allow smaller players to participate in development projects traditionally dominated by larger corporations, fostering innovation and equal opportunity.’

Alan Ananulu of iVenture shared success stories from East Africa, including Maarifasasa, a startup offering job-market training. His solution to Africa’s infrastructure challenges was simple but effective: low-tech solutions like WhatsApp and Facebook allow platforms to reach underserved entrepreneurs with limited connectivity.

Despite progress, significant hurdles remain—regulatory barriers, such as inconsistent recognition of e-signatures, hamper cross-border trade. ‘Mutual agreements on digital signatures are vital for facilitating trade and reducing friction,’ Gardizi noted. Ananulu added that startups often struggle with market entry restrictions, citing visa challenges as obstacles to regional expansion, and Taha suggested introducing soft-landing programs to help entrepreneurs navigate regulatory landscapes and establish trust across borders.

The session also revealed growing optimism among stakeholders. An interactive poll showed that participants viewed South-South collaboration as key to improving Africa’s investment climate. Traditional industries emerged as the sector that needs the most solutions, reflecting a desire to modernise and connect legacy businesses with emerging opportunities.

As the conversation drew close, audience questions reinforced the need for awareness campaigns and venture capital integration. Taha confirmed plans for capacity-building initiatives and nationwide roadshows to help SMEs sharpen their competitive edge. ‘It’s not just about opportunities—it’s about ensuring businesses have the tools to succeed,’ he concluded.

What’s clearly emerging from this session is the consensus that digital platforms are more than tools; they are catalysts for change, enabling businesses to overcome systemic barriers and unlock Africa’s immense economic potential. These platforms hold the key to a more connected and prosperous future by fostering trust, inclusivity, and innovation.

MTN South Africa, China Telecom and Huawei partner on 5G and AI in Africa

MTN South Africa, China Telecom, and Huawei collaborate strategically to advance 5G, cloud, AI, and business solutions. The partnership combines China Telecom’s global expertise in network solutions, MTN’s extensive regional reach, and Huawei’s advanced technology to drive digital infrastructure development across Africa.

The Executive Vice President of China Telecom Global emphasised that the alliance will unlock new business opportunities and enhance technological offerings in the region. The collaboration is also set to promote the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling non-computer devices like fridges to connect to the internet.

Why does it matter?

MTN South Africa anticipates that improvements in network services will provide new possibilities for business customers, especially in sectors like smart mining and industrial applications.

MTN plans satellite partnerships for rural internet

Africa’s largest mobile operator, MTN, is exploring partnerships with low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite providers to improve internet access in rural and remote areas, CEO Ralph Mupita announced on Monday. Satellite-based internet, increasingly popular in Africa through providers like Elon Musk’s Starlink, offers high-speed connectivity where traditional infrastructure is costly or impractical.

MTN is conducting trials with several LEO satellite operators and considering becoming a reseller for enterprise customers in specific regions. Competitors like Vodacom and Cell C are also embracing LEO partnerships, with Vodacom teaming up with Amazon’s Project Kuiper.

Mupita emphasised the need for regulatory fairness, calling for satellite providers to meet the same requirements as terrestrial operators, such as compliance with data privacy and spectrum access rules. While Starlink is operational in parts of Africa, regulatory hurdles remain in countries like South Africa, where a clear framework for satellite internet is still being developed.

Google calls for better protection of Africa’s fibre optic infrastructure

Governments across Africa should increase the protection of fibre optic cables from theft and vandalism, while also aligning regulations to boost tech infrastructure development, according to a Google executive. Charles Murito, Google’s head of government relations and public policy in Africa, emphasised the need to classify fibre cables as critical infrastructure, which would ensure severe consequences for those who damage them. Theft and vandalism targeting batteries, generators, and cables have driven up costs for infrastructure providers.

Murito, speaking at the Africa Tech conference, highlighted Google’s investments in subsea cables, including Equiano, connecting Africa with Europe, and the upcoming Umoja cable linking Africa and Australia. He stressed that better protections and regulatory harmonisation could make the continent more appealing to tech investors. Industry leaders agree that such measures are essential to encouraging business expansion in Africa.

Additionally, Murito has called for more infrastructure sharing among internet service providers to reduce data costs. The diverse regulations across African nations concerning permissions for cable installations hinder the expansion of fibre networks. Although South Africa‘s authorities have acknowledged the issue, urging law enforcement to act and proposing legal updates, fibre optic cables have yet to receive a new critical classification.

MTN and Huawei to launch Africa’s first 5.5G trial

MTN South Africa and Huawei have completed Africa’s first 5.5G network trial, marking a significant milestone in the region’s telecommunications landscape. The trial demonstrated the transformative potential of 5.5G technology, which offers key features such as 10 Gbps connection speeds, ten times the number of Internet of Things (IoT) connections, reduced latency, and improved energy efficiency.

These advancements represent a tenfold increase in network performance compared to current 5G networks, positioning South Africa at the forefront of digital innovation. Moreover, with ultra-fast speeds and advanced services like 24K extended reality (XR), high-speed Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), holographic conferencing, and enhanced private networks, 5.5G will not only drive the development of South Africa’s digital economy but also support new business opportunities.

In addition, it will bridge the digital divide, enabling previously unconnected regions and individuals to benefit from high-speed connectivity. As a result, this technological leap will be crucial in accelerating digital transformation, enhancing network efficiency, and creating new opportunities for consumers and enterprises across the country.

The successful trial utilised Huawei’s commercial SingleRAN technology, ultra-wideband, active-antenna units, and advanced beamforming techniques, ultimately achieving an ultra-high-speed experience of 8.6 Gbps. In particular, the trial leveraged millimetre wave and C-band spectrum resources in 5G standalone mode, showcasing the capabilities of 5.5G in real-world conditions.

Why does it matter?

Furthermore, the collaboration between MTN and Huawei reflects a shared vision of advancing Africa’s digital future by providing cutting-edge technologies and accelerating the region’s digital economy. As Huawei continues to support Africa’s development, this partnership demonstrates MTN’s ongoing commitment to innovation and the delivery of enhanced solutions that improve the lives of South Africans.

INTRO Technology and SWDC to enhance Egypt’s digital landscape

INTRO Technology has entered into a strategic partnership with Sterling and Wilson Data Center (SWDC) by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the Kemet Data Center project located in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE). Under this agreement, SWDC will serve as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor, overseeing key responsibilities such as design, planning, budgeting, and timeline management.

That partnership is significant for enhancing Egypt’s digital infrastructure and solidifying the country’s role as a leader in the data centre and cloud services industry. The Kemet Data Center is designed to meet the growing demand for cloud services, the Internet of Things (IoT), and digital transformation across the Middle East and Africa, providing secure and scalable data storage solutions.

Both Hatem Suliman, Vice Chairman and Group CEO of INTRO Holding, and Prasanna Sarambale, CEO of SWDC, expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasising their commitment to international standards and alignment with Egypt’s Vision 2030. The partnership is crucial as it combines the technological expertise of INTRO Technology with SWDC’s extensive experience in constructing high-quality data centres.

Why does it matter?

By enhancing the digital infrastructure in Egypt, the Kemet Data Center will position the country as a competitive hub for international investments, foster economic growth, and support job creation. Ultimately, this collaboration will facilitate access to advanced digital solutions, driving innovation and contributing to Egypt’s strategic vision for a digitally transformed economy.

Digital technology experts urge cybersecurity collaboration in Africa

Digital technology experts highlighted the need for collaboration and partnerships among African nations to tackle shared cybersecurity threats effectively. By emphasising a unified approach, participants recognised that regional cooperation is essential in addressing the complexities of cyber risks that impact businesses and governments.

Public-private partnerships were also advocated, as collaboration between the private sector and governmental agencies can foster the development of effective cybersecurity solutions, creating a safer business environment and promoting resilience against cyber threats. Additionally, they underscored the importance of identifying and valuing critical infrastructure, which is vital for informing robust security strategies. Sharing best practices among African countries can enhance defences without reinventing solutions, creating a collective strength across the continent.

Specifically, the call for harmonised cybersecurity laws across Africa aims to create consistent regulations that address capacity gaps and enhance digital security. Additionally, capacity-building initiatives are essential for equipping individuals and organisations to tackle evolving cyber challenges.

Moreover, they emphasised the need for effective incident response frameworks, as these strategies are crucial for minimising the impact of cyber incidents on businesses and governments. Ultimately, this proactive approach boosts resilience and fosters trust in the digital ecosystem, enabling Africa to navigate the complexities of the digital age confidently.

Google accused of censorship against African stream

Google is facing accusations of censorship after locking the pan-African media platform African Stream out of its Gmail Workspace, resulting in the loss of two years’ worth of emails and files stored in the cloud. The organisation has claimed that this action is part of a broader crackdown by US tech companies on its content, which is dedicated to providing a voice for Africans and challenging negative stereotypes.

The controversy escalated following remarks from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who suggested that African Stream is influenced by Russian propaganda, labelling the outlet as ‘Kremlin propagandists.’ Within the last two weeks, African Stream pointed out that it had also been banned from other platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and Threads, and criticised Google for not providing any credible reasons for the ban.

In response to the allegations, African Stream has denied any wrongdoing and questioned why major tech companies would bow to a single speech by a US official. The organisation emphasises its commitment to delivering African-centered content and amplifying African voices globally, raising significant concerns about the implications of censorship and the influence of political narratives on the policies of major tech firms.