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How African Tech Entrepreneurs Can Supercharge Their Content Strategy with Online Video Tools

Ronald Bwire
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How African Tech Entrepreneurs Can Supercharge Their Content Strategy with Online Video Tools

The African technology and startup ecosystem is evolving at a breathtaking pace. From Nairobi to Lagos, Cape Town to Kampala, a new generation of entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators is reshaping the continent’s economic landscape. Platforms like TechMoran have played a pivotal role in this transformation, serving as the go-to independent media for Africa’s startup founders, tech geeks, and investors. With over one million monthly visitors and more than three million monthly page views, TechMoran has established itself as the definitive voice covering Africa’s technology innovations  from AI and blockchain to SaaS, fintech, and e-commerce.

But as Africa’s digital ecosystem grows, so does the demand for engaging, high-quality content. Text-based reporting remains essential, yet video content is rapidly becoming the most powerful medium for storytelling, brand building, and audience engagement. For tech entrepreneurs, startup founders, and content creators who follow platforms like TechMoran, mastering video production is no longer optional , it is a competitive necessity. The challenge, however, is that professional video editing software can be expensive, complex, and inaccessible, especially for lean startups and solo creators. To explore a simpler solution, creators can Visit Clideo and discover an online platform that makes video editing fast, accessible, and beginner-friendly.

That is precisely where modern browser-based tools are changing the game.Many startups are now turning to browser-based video tools such as Clideo and similar online editors that allow creators to produce professional content without installing complex software.

Why Video Content Matters for Africa’s Tech Community

The rise of mobile internet across Sub-Saharan Africa has fundamentally changed how people consume information. Social media platforms including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are now primary channels through which startup stories are told, products are launched, and thought leadership is established. For the entrepreneurs and innovators that TechMoran covers daily, video content offers an unmatched opportunity to connect with audiences on a personal and emotional level.

Consider the numbers: video content generates significantly higher engagement than static text or images across virtually every social media platform. A well-crafted product demo, a compelling founder interview, or a concise explainer video can do more to attract investors and customers than an entire portfolio of blog posts. Yet many African startups still struggle to produce consistent, high-quality video content ,  not because of a lack of creativity, but because of perceived barriers around technical skill and equipment.

This is where cloud-based tools like Clideo become transformative. By democratising access to professional-grade video editing capabilities, they level the playing field and allow Africa’s next generation of entrepreneurs to compete on a global content stage.

What Is Clideo and Why Should Tech Creators Use It?

Several modern online video editors provide features for editing, converting, compressing, and managing multimedia content directly from a web browser, making video creation easier for startups and small teams. There is no software to install, no powerful machine required, and no steep learning curve to navigate. Whether you are working on a Mac, Windows PC, Android phone, or iPhone, Clideo works seamlessly across every device and operating system.

Founded with the mission of making video editing accessible to everyone, Clideo has grown into one of the most comprehensive online video tools available today. It supports a wide range of formats including MP4, MOV, AVI, WMV, WebM, GIF, and more, and it allows creators to export videos in resolutions ranging from 480p all the way up to crystal-clear 4K quality.

For African tech entrepreneurs, startup marketers, and content creators who want to produce compelling digital media without a large budget or technical team, Clideo offers a practical and powerful solution.

Key Features That Make Clideo Stand Out

A Full-Featured Multi-Track Video Editor

At the core of the Clideo platform is its fully-featured online video editor, which includes a multi-track timeline that allows users to combine video clips, images, audio tracks, and text elements into a single, cohesive production. Creators can add text overlays with customisable fonts, sizes, and colours; insert stickers, GIFs, emojis, and shapes; apply filters and visual effects; and adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation ,  all within the same intuitive interface.

The editor also supports advanced compositions such as picture-in-picture layouts, split-screen videos, and collage-style arrangements, giving creators the flexibility to produce visually dynamic content suited for platforms like YouTube, Instagram Reels, and TikTok.

Specialised Tools for Every Editing Need

One of Clideo’s greatest strengths is the breadth of its individual tools, each designed to accomplish a specific task quickly and efficiently. Key tools include:

Video Compressor  Reduce file sizes for easier sharing via email, messaging apps like WhatsApp, or cloud storage platforms without sacrificing visible quality.

  • Video Cutter and Trimmer  Precisely cut or trim any segment from a video in seconds.
  • Merge Video  Combine multiple clips and images into one seamless video with a single click.
  • Add Subtitles  Automatically generate or manually add subtitles to videos in any format, an invaluable feature for reaching multilingual African audiences.
  • Resize and Crop Video  Instantly reformat videos for specific social platforms using built-in presets for YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and more.
  • Speed Control  Slow down or speed up footage with precision, ideal for creating dramatic effects or quick-paced promotional clips.
  • Meme Maker  A dedicated tool for creating shareable meme videos with text overlays and emojis, perfect for social media engagement.
  • GIF Maker and Editor  Create animated GIFs from any video or image, customize speed and size, and add text directly in the browser.
  • Screen and Presentation Recorder  Record your screen, webcam, or a combination of both, then edit the recording immediately in the same tool.

AI-Powered Capabilities

In 2025 and 2026, Clideo has significantly expanded its artificial intelligence capabilities, introducing tools including an AI Video Enhancer, an AI Script-to-Video generator, an Auto Subtitle Generator, and a Video Translator that can automatically translate video subtitles and add AI voiceovers in multiple languages. For Africa’s diverse multilingual tech community, the video translation feature alone is a game-changer ,  enabling creators to reach audiences across different linguistic regions with minimal extra effort.

Format Conversion at Scale

Beyond video editing, Clideo functions as a comprehensive media conversion hub. The platform supports video-to-video conversion, audio format conversion (MP3, WAV, OGG, M4A, FLAC, and more), and image format conversion (JPG, PNG, GIF, WEBP, HEIC, TIFF, SVG). This means creators can handle virtually all their multimedia processing needs without ever leaving the platform.

How African Startups and Content Creators Can Use Clideo

Startup Pitches and Investor Presentations

For founders looking to attract funding, a compelling video pitch can be far more persuasive than a traditional deck alone. Clideo’s video editor makes it easy to record a presentation, clean up the footage, add professional-looking text overlays and branding, and export it in a high-resolution format ready for sharing with potential investors.

Product Launches and Demos

When launching a new product or feature, video demonstrations are among the most effective marketing assets a startup can deploy. Clideo’s screen recorder and video editor combination allows founders and product teams to record product walkthroughs, annotate them with text and callouts, and publish polished demos with minimal effort.

Social Media Content at Scale

Africa’s tech community is highly active on social platforms. Consistently producing video content optimised for different platforms , square for Instagram, vertical for TikTok, widescreen for YouTube , is a significant operational challenge. Clideo’s built-in aspect ratio presets and one-click resize tool eliminate this friction, enabling teams to repurpose a single piece of content across multiple channels in minutes.

Event Coverage and Highlight Reels

TechMoran and similar media platforms regularly cover major events such as startup festivals, investor summits, and tech conferences. With Clideo’s merge and editing tools, event organisers and media teams can quickly assemble highlight reels from raw footage, add music, titles, and transitions, and publish polished event recaps that drive ongoing engagement long after the event ends.

Pricing: Accessible for Startups of Every Size

Clideo offers a free version that provides access to most of its core tools, though videos exported on the free plan will carry a Clideo watermark. For professional use, the Clideo Pro plan is available at approximately $9 per month, or around $6 per month when billed annually , a saving of $36 per year. The Pro plan removes watermarks entirely, unlocks premium AI features, allows larger file uploads, and provides extended cloud storage for projects.

For cash-conscious startups operating across Africa’s emerging markets, this pricing model is a compelling alternative to expensive desktop software subscriptions that can run into hundreds of dollars annually.

Security and Privacy

A common concern among users of cloud-based tools is the safety of uploaded content. Clideo addresses this directly: all uploaded files are stored securely, and only the account owner can access and manage their projects. Files are processed over secure connections, and the platform’s privacy practices are designed to ensure that sensitive content , such as investor presentations or unreleased product demos , remains protected.

Getting Started with Clideo

One of Clideo’s defining advantages is how effortlessly a new user can get started. There is no account required for basic use simply open your browser, navigate to the platform, upload a file, and begin editing. For those who want to save projects and access premium features, account creation is straightforward and takes only a few minutes.

The mobile app, available for both iOS and Android, synchronises seamlessly with the web platform, allowing creators to start a project on their laptop and continue editing on their smartphone, an important feature in a mobile-first continent like Africa where much digital work happens on smartphones.

Entrepreneurs and creators can explore different browser-based video editing platforms to find tools that fit their workflow and help them produce engaging video content more efficiently.

Communications Authority Scrutinise Airtel-Starlink Direct-to-Cell Deal Over Interference Fears

Diana Mutheu
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Communications Authority Scrutinise Airtel-Starlink Direct-to-Cell Deal Over Interference Fears

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has launched a formal regulatory review into a landmark partnership between Airtel and SpaceX’s Starlink, amid growing concerns that satellite signals could disrupt the country’s existing mobile networks.

This proposed deal aims to deploy “direct-to-cell” technology, which allows standard smartphones to connect directly to Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites without the need for specialized hardware.

However, regulators are currently assessing whether these orbital transmissions will cause harmful interference with ground-based 3G, 4G, and 5G infrastructure.

At the heart of the inquiry is the challenge of maintaining “spectrum integrity,” as the service introduces space-based signals into frequency bands traditionally reserved for terrestrial towers.

Consequently, the CA confirmed it is examining a formal application from Airtel Networks Kenya Limited to determine if satellite mobile coverage can operate within existing rules without degrading service for millions of current users.

While expanding coverage to underserved regions remains a national priority, officials stressed that protecting the performance of existing networks remains a core mandate.

Airtel Africa has partnered with SpaceX to roll out these services across 14 markets.

Under the current roadmap, the service will initially support internet-based messaging and voice apps, such as WhatsApp, before expanding to native carrier calls and SMS in 2028.

As of March 2026, Starlink’s global presence has grown significantly, with approximately 9,920 active units in orbit, including a specialized fleet of 650 direct-to-cell units.

Since its July 2023 Kenyan launch, Starlink has captured 98% of the local satellite market, though its total fixed-internet share remains at 0.8%.

The regulatory hurdle comes at a time of shifting market dynamics within the country.

Latest industry figures indicate that Safaricom maintains a lead with 62.9% of the mobile broadband market and 63.4% of voice traffic, while Airtel has solidified its position as a challenger brand with 32.7% of broadband and 36.2% of voice traffic.

Furthermore, the race for space-based connectivity is intensifying; on March 9, 2026, MTN Zambia became the first African operator to complete successful field tests, and Amazon’s Project Kuiper signaled its intention to enter the Kenyan market on March 2, 2026.

While the CA weighs the risks of signal “noise” and reduced throughput, the industry is moving toward a hybrid connectivity model.

Rather than replacing terrestrial towers, satellite connectivity is expected to act as a supplemental layer for rural areas where fiber and towers are economically unviable.

If cleared, the Airtel-Starlink partnership will provide a critical bridge for those outside the reach of traditional infrastructure, though full native calling capabilities are not scheduled for deployment until 2028.

TikTok Pledges $200,000 to Bolster AI Literacy Across Africa

Diana Mutheu
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TikTok Pledges $200,000 to Bolster AI Literacy Across Africa

TikTok has announced a fresh $200,000 investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI) media literacy for Sub-Saharan Africa, as the social media giant faces growing pressure to police misinformation on the continent.

The funding was unveiled during the third annual Sub-Saharan Africa Safer Internet Summit in Nairobi this week.

Under the theme “#SaferTogether: Innovation and Safety,” the two-day event brought together a high-level coalition of government officials, tech innovators, and safety advocates to tackle the unique digital challenges facing the region.

This year’s gathering marks a significant expansion of a series that began in Ghana in 2024 and moved to Cape Town in 2025, with discussions now focusing heavily on the dual nature of Artificial Intelligence, balancing its creative power against its potential to spread sophisticated misinformation.

“Our mission is clear: to share learnings, tackle common challenges, and collaboratively advance solutions that protect citizens online,” said Tokunbo Ibrahim, TikTok’s Head of Government Relations and Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa.

This sentiment was echoed by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for ICT, William Kabogo, who emphasized during his opening remarks that regional partnerships are essential for a “secure and thriving online ecosystem.”

The new $200,000 in advertising credits serves as an extension of TikTok’s $2 million Global AI Literacy Fund launched late last year.

This funding is specifically designed to empower local organizations that understand the cultural nuances of the African digital space.

Current partners include Mtoto News, which helps children navigate AI technology responsibly; Africa Check, which is expanding fact-checking efforts in Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya; and the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), which is leveraging its DUBAWA platform to combat information disorder.

“We are partnering with trusted local organizations because their deep local connections are essential to making AI literacy programs truly impactful,” noted Valiant Richey, TikTok’s Global Head of Partnerships, Elections & Market Integrity.

Beyond local outreach, a major portion of the summit was dedicated to demystifying how TikTok handles the 100 million pieces of content uploaded to the platform daily.

The company highlighted a multi-layered approach to transparency, including mandatory labeling for realistic AI-generated content and the use of digital watermarking through C2PA technology to track the origin of media.

While TikTok is increasingly leaning on AI to moderate content faster, the company maintains that human oversight remains a critical component of the process.

While AI handles the bulk of proactive detection, human teams remain the final arbiters for complex context.

This strategy appears to be yielding high-volume results; according to TikTok’s latest enforcement report, the platform removed over 14 million videos across Sub-Saharan Africa in Q3 2025 alone.

Notably, 96.7% of these were caught by automated systems before a user even reported them.

The summit concluded with commitments from attendees to continue advancing digital safety initiatives, building on the partnerships and insights shared over the two-day event.

Nation Media Group Sold to Tanzania’s Taarifa Ltd After 66 Years

Ronald Bwire
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Nation Media Group Sold to Tanzania’s Taarifa Ltd After 66 Years

Nation Media Group (NMG), East Africa’s largest independent media company, owned by the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED), has been sold, ending Aga Khan’s 66-year relationship with the Nairobi-listed publisher.

AKFED said on Monday it would sell its 100% shareholding in NPRT Holdings Africa Limited to Taarifa Ltd., a company owned by East African businessman Rostam Azizi. NPRT holds 54.08% of Nation Media Group, controlling stake and equivalent to 92,618,177 ordinary shares.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to be completed within three to four months, AKFED said in a statement.

Nation Media Group, founded in 1959, publishes some of East Africa’s most influential newspapers including Daily Nation, Business Daily, Sunday Nation, The EastAfrican, Daily Monitor in Uganda and Mwananchi and The Citizen in Tanzania. The group also operates NTV Kenya and Nation FM, and its digital platforms reach more than 62 million users.

AKFED Director Sultan Allana said the organisation was proud of its role in building one of Africa’s most respected media institutions.

“We are confident NMG will continue to uphold the values of independent journalism and service to the public that have defined it for over six decades,” Allana said.

Taarifa Ltd. said it would support the company’s ongoing digital transformation while maintaining its editorial independence.

“We are honoured and deeply committed to becoming the majority shareholder of Nation Media Group,” Azizi said. “NMG is an institution of profound importance to East Africa.”

Taarifa said it does not currently plan to make a mandatory or voluntary offer for the remaining shares or seek to delist the company from stock exchanges where it is listed.

Nation Media Group has been listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange since 1973 and is also cross-listed in Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda.

The Aga Khan Development Network said it will continue supporting journalism in the region through the Aga Khan University’s Graduate School of Media and Communications in Nairobi.

AKFED, part of the Aga Khan Development Network, invests in businesses across Africa and Asia in sectors including banking, insurance, industry and tourism.

Gebeya and InterNetX Strike Deal to Bridge Africa’s ‘Domain Gap’

Diana Mutheu
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Gebeya and InterNetX Strike Deal to Bridge Africa’s ‘Domain Gap’

Gebeya, an African AI firm has announced a strategic partnership with European domain registrar InterNetX, aimed at allowing entrepreneurs across the continent to bypass international payment hurdles when securing web addresses.

The collaboration integrates InterNetX’s AutoDNS platform directly into Gebeya’s digital ecosystem.

Consequently, users can now search for and purchase domains using local payment methods, such as mobile money, rather than being restricted to international credit cards or foreign currency.

This move is designed to dismantle the financial barriers that have historically sidelined African builders from the global web.

While Africa’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, domain ownership remains significantly lower than global averages.

This disparity is often attributed to the “friction” of international transactions.

Many African builders find themselves unable to establish a professional web presence because they lack access to USD-denominated accounts.

To address this, Gebeya is embedding domain search, registration, and SSL provisioning into its existing platforms, including the Jitume AI service marketplace and the Dala AI creator studio.

“We are building the operating system for Africa’s service economy, and a professional web presence is fundamental to that vision,” said Amadou Daffe, CEO of Gebeya. “By partnering with InterNetX, we can offer our users seamless domain access without the friction of international payments. This is about enabling millions of African entrepreneurs to own their digital identity and compete globally.”

The partnership comes as Gebeya, a leading “Agentic AI” company, reports having already onboarded more than 90,000 users.

However, feedback from this growing community consistently highlighted the inability to secure professional domains as a primary roadblock to growth.

By partnering with InterNetX, a subsidiary of the IONOS Group, Gebeya aims to scale its subscriber base to 1 million.

This expansion is supported by a white-label integration that simplifies the journey from creator to established online business.

Elias Rendón Berger, CEO of InterNetX, noted that the partnership combines European infrastructure with Gebeya’s “deep market understanding” and local payment rails.

He added: “Partnering with Gebeya allows InterNetX to support Africa’s next wave of digital entrepreneurs. We’re making it easier than ever for African businesses to establish a credible, secure online presence.”

For the subscribers already using Gebeya’s platforms, ranging from service professionals to digital creators and SMEs, the integration offers a complete professional presence.

By bundling domains, SSL certificates, and websites into one seamless flow, the initiative supports African digital sovereignty.

Furthermore, by allowing transactions in local currencies, the partnership ensures that as Gebeya scales, its users have access to the same professional toolkits available in Western markets, but tailored specifically for the African financial landscape.

Standard Bank and AWIF Inject KES 92.2 Million into Female-led Investment Firms

Diana Mutheu
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Standard Bank and AWIF Inject KES 92.2 Million into Female-led Investment Firms

Standard Bank, has reached a significant milestone in its mission to transform the continent’s financial landscape.

As the lead sponsor of the African Women Impact Fund (AWIF), the bank has successfully provided critical grant funding to 10 women-led fund managers, a move designed to dismantle the systemic barriers facing female investment professionals in Africa.

Operating through its Foundation arm, the initiative has deployed  KES 92.2 million  in working capital grants to strengthen the operational and investment management capabilities of these firms.

This financial injection is specifically aimed at addressing the “perfect storm” of challenges women face in the sector, including high up-front costs, limited exposure to institutional systems, and a historical lack of support networks.

This latest phase of support builds upon a substantial commitment made last year, when Standard Bank allocated US$10 million in investment capital to the initiative. While that capital serves to help managers build a professional track record and scale their operations, the new grant funding focuses on immediate business sustainability.

Thobile Finca, Programme Manager for the AWIF at Standard Bank, noted that reaching this point followed an “extensive build-up phase,” adding that “capital allocation coupled with working capital facility is key to ensuring the emergence of African women fund managers.”

The programme is a collaborative effort aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals 5 and 8.

To operationalise the vision, the African Women Leadership Network (AWLN) has partnered with Standard Bank as the promoter, RisCura Invest as the investment manager and provider of incubation services, and MiDA Advisors as a strategic advisor.

Together, they have created a robust ecosystem that spans the continent, supporting managers in regions ranging from East Africa to the Southern tip.

Among the primary beneficiaries are firms like Altree Capital, focusing on Gender and Climate in East Africa, and West Africa’s HealthCap, which targets healthtech and fintech. In Southern Africa, firms such as Raindance and Cartesian Capital are prioritizing Sustainability and ESG.

These managers are often the primary gateway for investment into underserved sectors, including women-owned and women-led enterprises that might otherwise be overlooked by traditional finance.

The impact of this support is already being felt on the ground.

Nkareng Siwale, founder and Managing Director for RainDance Asset Management, one of the first managers financed through Standard Bank Securities, emphasized how the funding has bolstered their professional standing.

“We have been able to show strength in our balance sheet which has built confidence in our stakeholders, including asset allocators and regulatory bodies,” Ms Siwale said.

QAQShe noted that this support has provided a “firm foundation for long-term growth,” effectively positioning these firms to bridge the funding gap for women across the continent.

SpaceX Unveils ‘Cell Tower in Space’ to Bridge Africa’s Digital Divide

Diana Mutheu
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SpaceX Unveils ‘Cell Tower in Space’ to Bridge Africa’s Digital Divide

SpaceX is preparing to overhaul global mobile connectivity with the debut of its “Direct-to-Cell” satellites, a move that promises to deliver high-speed internet directly to standard smartphones without the need for any additional hardware or satellite dishes.

This new generation of technology, known as the Mobile V2 satellites, represents a significant leap forward in orbital infrastructure.

By functioning essentially as a “cell tower in space,” these satellites utilize existing LTE frequencies to allow users to text, call, and stream video seamlessly, bypassing the traditional requirement for Starlink terminals.

According to technical specifications released by Starlink, the new network is expected to deliver “full 5G-level cellular connectivity” to the majority of covered regions.

These V2 models boast up to 100 times more data capacity than previous satellite iterations and are designed to achieve peak download speeds of 150 Mbps per user once the constellation is fully deployed.

To facilitate this ambitious rollout, Elon Musk’s SpaceX intends to launch approximately 15,000 V2 satellites into low-Earth orbit over the coming years, bolstered by a strategic partnership with T-Mobile that allows handsets to switch intelligently between terrestrial towers and orbital signals.

Since its inception in 2019, Starlink’s growth has been meteoric, surging from 1 million subscribers in 2022 to over 4.6 million by late 2024.

With annual revenues now exceeding $8 billion, the company is increasingly looking toward Africa as its next major growth engine, projecting a global user base of 7 million by 2025.

The opportunity on the continent is vast; data from GSMA indicates that while 320 million people in sub-Saharan Africa use mobile internet, a staggering 710 million people, roughly 60% of the population, remain offline despite often living within existing network coverage areas.

Consequently, Starlink has moved aggressively to capture this market.

Starlink officially entered the Kenyan market in July 2023. Since its debut, the satellite internet service has experienced a significant growth trajectory, despite facing early challenges with network congestion in major cities.

Upon its launch, the service initially targeted high-end users and those in remote areas where traditional fiber or 4G coverage was non-existent, rapidly becoming the dominant player in the country’s satellite internet niche.

As of early 2026, Starlink has reached a record high of approximately 19,470 active users.

This figure follows a notable recovery period; between late 2024 and mid-2025, the company actually had to pause new sign-ups in dense urban areas like Nairobi and Mombasa to manage capacity issues.

After activating a local ground station in Nairobi and upgrading its infrastructure, the service reopened for all regions in June 2025 and saw an 11.7% surge in subscribers in the following quarter alone.

While Starlink now commands about 98% of the satellite internet market in Kenya, it still represents a relatively small slice of the overall fixed internet landscape.

With a market share of roughly 0.8%, it currently ranks as the ninth-largest Internet Service Provider (ISP) in the country.

To drive further adoption and compete with local giants like Safaricom, Starlink introduced installment payment plans for hardware in early 2026, lowering the barrier for entry for many Kenyan households and businesses.

This expansion is viewed as a critical step in closing the digital divide, as the “Direct-to-Cell” model removes the financial barrier of expensive ground equipment that previously cost users hundreds of dollars.

The economic implications of this connectivity are profound, as research suggests that a 10% increase in mobile internet penetration can result in a 2.5% boost to GDP per capita across Africa.

Beyond economics, the network provides a vital safety net for disaster and emergency communication, as satellite signals remain resilient during power outages or civil conflicts when traditional infrastructure often fails.

However, the rapid expansion has faced hurdles; several African governments, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, have raised concerns regarding national security and market disruption, while traditional telecom giants fear the “Direct-to-Phone” model could render their terrestrial business models obsolete.

Ultimately, the launch of the Mobile V2 satellites marks a pivotal moment in the race for “connectivity from space.”

For the millions in Africa currently residing in the digital dark, the prospect of 5G speeds via a simple smartphone and a clear view of the sky may soon become a reality.

As Starlink continues to enhance its orbital services, the boundary between traditional telecom networks and space-based connectivity is expected to blur, potentially transforming the lives of millions across the continent.

Huawei & Konza Launch an AI-powered BPO Platform in Siaya County

Sam Wakoba
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Huawei & Konza Launch an AI-powered BPO Platform in Siaya County

Huawei and Konza Technopolis Development Authority have launched an AI-powered business process outsourcing (BPO) platform at a community digital hub in Siaya County, marking the first such deployment within Kenya’s digital hub network.

The initiative, unveiled during the Siaya Digital Summit 2026 in Bondo, aims to create jobs for young people while expanding access to digital services in rural areas. The hub is part of the government-backed Jitume Digital Hubs programme, which seeks to establish technology access points across all 1,450 wards nationwide.

Twenty youth have been trained to operate the AI-assisted contact centre platform, enabling them to handle customer service requests across messaging, web and voice channels. The system uses artificial intelligence to generate responses, log interactions and analyse case data to improve efficiency and service quality.

Officials said the BPO will serve both local and international clients, positioning rural Kenya as a competitive player in the global outsourcing market.

“This initiative reflects the power of technology to transform communities,” said Ruth Mokaya, a cloud solutions engineer at Huawei, adding that the programme aligns with the company’s global Tech4All initiative and Kenya’s digital economy agenda.

Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo Gitau, said the project demonstrates how partnerships between government and private sector players can expand digital opportunities beyond major cities.

“The success of Kenya’s digital transformation will ultimately be measured by how widely opportunities are shared,” Kabogo said, noting that digital hubs provide infrastructure, skills and platforms for youth participation in the economy.

The government is expanding its digital infrastructure under the Digital Superhighway project, which includes over 100,000 km of fibre optic cable. Officials say the rollout is creating jobs in installation, maintenance and ICT services.

As part of the summit, Huawei also trained 100 youth under its Huawei Certified ICT Associate (HCIA) programme, focusing on networking, cabling and infrastructure management skills.

John Paul Okwiri, CEO of Konza Technopolis Development Authority, said digital hubs are key to building a broader innovation ecosystem by providing access to infrastructure, mentorship and collaboration spaces.

The Siaya hub is one of 290 already established across Kenya, benefiting more than 400,000 young people, according to government data.

Participants in the BPO training programme said the skills gained would enable them to access online work opportunities and compete globally.

The project is expected to be replicated in other digital hubs across the country as Kenya seeks to leverage its youthful population—over 75% of whom are under 35—to drive digital job creation and economic growth.

Officials said continued collaboration between government, private sector and communities will be critical to ensuring digital transformation translates into tangible employment opportunities.

NCBA Steers Parents Through Post-Midterm Back-to-School

Diana Mutheu
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NCBA Steers Parents Through Post-Midterm Back-to-School

As students across Kenya resume classes following the first-term midterm break, the “back-to-school” rhythm has returned to full swing.

While the initial start-of-year rush has passed, the reality of mid-term financial planning remains a key priority for many households.

NCBA Bank is stepping in as a strategic partner, providing tailored financial solutions to ensure that educational continuity remains uninterrupted for learners nationwide.

NCBA’s 2026 education strategy is built on the understanding that school-related expenses often extend beyond tuition.

To help parents and guardians navigate these mid-term obligations with minimal disruption, the bank has streamlined its credit facilities:

  • School Fees Loans: Parents can access financing of up to KES 1,500,000 to manage tuition obligations directly. The process is designed for speed—parents simply need to present a school fees invoice at any NCBA branch to begin the application.

  • Salary Advances: For immediate, day-to-day school expenses such as uniforms, transport, and supplies, NCBA offers salary advances of up to KES 250,000, providing a flexible buffer during tight budget periods.

  • Comprehensive Personal Loans: For those with broader financial needs, the bank continues to offer unsecured personal loans ranging from KES 100,000 up to KES 4,000,000, subject to individual credit assessment and terms.

Beyond individual support, NCBA is fundamentally changing how institutions operate.

Recognizing that administrative efficiency directly impacts student outcomes, the bank has been actively deploying its Soma Plus platform.

This digital school management system enables administrators to:

  • Automate Collections: Integrate seamless fee payments to reduce manual reconciliation errors.

  • Enhance Transparency: Provide parents and school leaders with real-time, data-driven insights into institutional finances.

  • Modernize Operations: Move away from paper-based records toward a digital-first ecosystem, ensuring schools can focus their resources on academic excellence rather than administrative overhead.

NCBA’s impact extends to its long-standing citizenship agenda.

Through its Youth Education and Enterprise pillar, the bank continues to support bright students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

By annually sponsoring over 90 students through strategic partnerships with organizations like the Dr. Choksey Albinism Foundation, Edumed Trust, and the M-Pesa Foundation Academy, NCBA is reinforcing the role of education as a powerful tool for social mobility and poverty alleviation.

“At NCBA, we view education as the engine of Kenya’s future,” said an NCBA spokesperson. “Whether it is through a fee loan for a parent or a digital management tool for a school, our goal is to provide the stability required for students to focus on what matters most: their learning journey.

Kenya’s NTSA Launches Automated Instant Traffic Fines System

Ronald Bwire
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Kenya’s NTSA Launches Automated Instant Traffic Fines System

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has launched a new automated system that instantly issues traffic fines to motorists, marking a major step in Kenya’s push to digitise road traffic enforcement.

In a public notice on Monday, the regulator said the Instant Fines Traffic Management System is now live and will automatically send traffic violation notifications to motorists via SMS when offences are detected.

The system is designed to operate without human intervention, a move the authority says will improve transparency, efficiency and accountability in the enforcement of traffic regulations.

Under the new framework, motorists who receive violation notifications will be required to settle the fines within seven days through the branch network of **KCB Group.

Failure to pay within the stipulated period will result in the fine attracting interest, while drivers or vehicle owners with outstanding penalties will be blocked from accessing NTSA services until the fines are cleared.

Those services include key transactions on NTSA platforms such as vehicle ownership transfers, driving licence processing and other motor vehicle services.

The authority advised motorists to comply with traffic regulations and respond promptly to official notifications, noting that additional details on the system’s operation would be communicated through official government channels.

Kenya has in recent years accelerated efforts to digitise public services and modernise traffic management systems as part of a broader strategy to improve road safety and reduce corruption associated with manual enforcement.

The rollout of automated fines comes as authorities explore greater use of digital monitoring tools, including traffic cameras and integrated vehicle databases, to detect violations and streamline enforcement across the country.

Safaricom’s Ziidi Fund Secures Top Global Fintech Honour

Diana Mutheu
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Safaricom’s Ziidi Fund Secures Top Global Fintech Honour

Safaricom has solidified its position as a global leader in digital finance after its Ziidi Money Market Fund was named the “Best Fintech and Digital Commerce Innovation” at the 2026 Global Mobile Award (GLOMO).

The prestigious accolade was announced during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 in Barcelona, where the Kenyan telecommunications giant emerged victorious from a highly competitive shortlist of five international finalists.

This award specifically recognises digital solutions that are currently redefining the landscape of global financial services and commerce through innovative technology.

The Ziidi Investment Platform was singled out for its success in democratising capital markets and expanding access to investment opportunities.

By leveraging mobile technology, the fund has significantly lowered traditional barriers to entry, allowing Kenyans to save and participate in capital markets more easily and securely than ever before.

This recognition comes at a pivotal time as M-PESA marks its 19th anniversary, highlighting its evolution from a simple mobile money transfer service into a broad digital financial platform spanning payments, savings, credit, and now, sophisticated wealth creation.

Speaking on the win, Stephen Chege, Safaricom’s Chief Corporate and External Affairs Officer, noted that the award reflects the company’s long-term commitment to financial inclusion.

“This global recognition is a proud moment for Safaricom and for Kenya,” Mr. Chege stated. “Ziidi reflects our commitment to harnessing technology to create meaningful financial opportunities for our customers. As we mark 19 years of M-PESA, this milestone underscores our journey from enabling simple money transfers to providing a comprehensive digital financial ecosystem.”

Furthermore, the platform’s success is underpinned by a strategic partnership with Huawei, which has been central in enabling “Fintech 2.0.”

By providing next-generation digital rails, Huawei has supported the real-time processing and strengthened security necessary for the rapid rollout of new financial products.

Consequently, this infrastructure has allowed Safaricom to scale the Ziidi Investment Platform effectively, ensuring that users can move seamlessly from basic savings to active investing within the existing M-PESA ecosystem.

The GLOMO Awards are widely regarded as the mobile industry’s top honours, and this latest win adds to Safaricom’s extensive trophy cabinet.

The company has previously secured multiple awards in Barcelona, including recognition for the M-PESA Super App and the BLAZE DigiTruck in 2022, as well as earlier wins for the DigiFarm platform.

By winning again in 2026, Safaricom continues to demonstrate its role as a pioneer in technology-driven wealth creation and inclusive financial services on the global stage.

African Tech Rebound in February 2026: Funding Doubles to $346m as Electric Vehicles and Green Energy Lead the Way

Diana Mutheu
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0
African Tech Rebound in February 2026: Funding Doubles to $346m as Electric Vehicles and Green Energy Lead the Way

Investment in African startups surged in February 2026, with the continent’s tech ecosystem securing $346.9 million in a month defined by a pivot toward green technology and electric mobility.

According to a funding report by Africa: The Big Deal, the total marks a dramatic recovery from the $174 million recorded in January.

“This strong rebound suggests that while traditional financial services remain a pillar of the economy, investor appetite is rapidly diversifying into renewable energy and climate-focused infrastructure.”

Despite a growing spread of deals across the continent, the “big four” markets—South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, and Kenya—continue to attract the lion’s share of capital.

Southern Africa emerged as the top-performing region, accounting for $127.65 million.

The bulk of this was concentrated in South Africa, where $116.4 million was raised.

Key Deal include renewable energy firm,  Solar Africa which secured a massive $94 million round to expand its infrastructure.

Other Notables are Fintech and climate startups like Lula and Talk360 that also bolstered the region’s figures.

In West Africa, which ranked second with $79.5 million, the spotlight shifted away from Nigeria toward Côte d’Ivoire.

The Ivorian mobility startup GoCab raised $45 million, a signal of growing confidence in Francophone Africa’s urban transport solutions.

Meanwhile, Nigeria secured $23.5 million, notably led by a $22 million investment in defense technology.

East and North Africa

East Africa followed closely with $73 million in total funding.

Kenya dominated this region by securing $68 million, a figure propelled by electric mobility firm Spiro, which raised $57 million.

Other Kenyan investments flowed into health supply chain firm Axmed and mobility platform Arc Ride, while Ethiopia’s Lovegrass added $5 million to the regional tally.

In North Africa, Egypt maintained its dominance by bringing in $62.6 million of the region’s $66.76 million total.

Breadfast, an online grocery platform, and Flextock, a logistics firm, were the primary drivers of Egyptian growth.

Morocco also saw activity in the legal tech and fintech sectors.

While fintech has historically been the “darling” of African venture capital, February’s data reveals a significant structural shift in where the money is going.

“The distribution of funding across sectors suggests a broader diversification of Africa’s technology ecosystem beyond fintech alone,” the report noted.

Beyond the top four sectors, significant capital was also deployed into defense technology ($22 million), e-commerce logistics ($12.6 million), and agritech ($6.5 million).

The transition from January’s modest figures to February’s windfall signals “stronger momentum” for the year ahead. Analysts suggest that the continent is becoming a central player in global climate transition strategies, evidenced by the heavy backing of electric vehicles and solar power.

Furthermore, while funding remains concentrated in major hubs, the geographical spread is widening.

If the current trend in climate tech and digital commerce holds, experts believe 2026 could deliver the most “balanced funding landscape” seen in the history of the African startup scene.

OpenClaw and the Rise of Autonomous AI Assistants

Ronald Bwire
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0
OpenClaw and the Rise of Autonomous AI Assistants

OpenClaw and the Rise of Autonomous AI Assistants: Why the Next Wave of AI Will Do More Than Just Talk

Artificial intelligence has spent the past three years transforming how people search for information, write content, code software, and generate ideas. Tools like ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini have demonstrated how conversational interfaces can make knowledge and productivity more accessible than ever before.

But a new class of technology is emerging that may shift AI from being a conversational partner to an autonomous digital worker.

At the center of that conversation is OpenClaw, an open-source AI agent designed to do more than answer questions. Instead, it can take action on a user’s behalf—sending emails, browsing the web, executing scripts, and managing digital workflows.

For technologists, founders and knowledge workers, this shift signals something bigger than another AI tool. It represents the early stages of agentic AI, a model where software systems operate independently to complete tasks.

From Chatbots to AI Agents

OpenClaw belongs to a new generation of autonomous AI agents—software that connects language models with tools that interact with computers, APIs and online services.

Instead of simply generating responses, these agents can:

  • Access files on a computer
  • Navigate websites
  • Send emails or messages
  • Execute scripts and workflows
  • Monitor information sources
  • Complete multi-step tasks independently

In practice, this means a user could instruct an agent with a simple message:

“Research competitors in African fintech, summarize the findings and email me the report.”

The AI system then performs the entire process—gathering information, organizing it, generating the summary and delivering it.

That shift—from AI that informs to AI that acts—is what makes the emerging category so significant.

The Birth of the “Digital Worker”

The rise of AI agents has sparked discussion about the emergence of digital workers: software systems capable of performing routine knowledge tasks without continuous human supervision.

For businesses, the implications are considerable.

Startups are already experimenting with agents that can:

  • Run marketing campaigns
  • Monitor markets and generate reports
  • Manage customer service inquiries
  • Coordinate project management tasks
  • Automate research and documentation

In effect, these systems could function as 24/7 operational assistants, dramatically reducing the time humans spend on repetitive digital work.

For entrepreneurs and lean startups, the productivity boost could be transformative.

A small team equipped with autonomous AI systems may soon be able to operate at a scale that once required dozens of employees.

Why Open Source Matters

One of the reasons OpenClaw is gaining attention in developer communities is its open-source nature.

Unlike many proprietary AI platforms, open-source agents allow developers to:

  • Modify the system’s capabilities
  • Integrate custom tools and APIs
  • Run the software locally or on private servers
  • Maintain control over data and workflows

This flexibility makes such platforms attractive to startups and technical teams that want to experiment with custom AI automation.

Open ecosystems also tend to accelerate innovation. Developers around the world can contribute improvements, extensions and new integrations.

In the AI economy, that collaborative momentum often determines how quickly technologies mature.

The Productivity Revolution Ahead

The emergence of AI agents comes at a moment when companies are already reevaluating how work gets done.

Knowledge work—research, documentation, analysis, scheduling, reporting—has traditionally required significant human effort.

Agentic systems could change that equation.

Rather than asking employees to manually perform routine tasks, organizations may begin delegating them to AI systems that operate continuously in the background.

The result could be:

  • Faster decision cycles
  • Reduced operational costs
  • Greater productivity per employee
  • More focus on strategic and creative work

For industries driven by information—media, finance, technology, consulting—this transformation could be particularly pronounced.

The Security Question

The same capabilities that make AI agents powerful also introduce risks.

Because systems like OpenClaw may require access to emails, files, accounts and APIs, they can create significant security vulnerabilities if poorly configured.

Potential concerns include:

  • Exposure of sensitive credentials
  • Unauthorized automation actions
  • Data leaks through integrations
  • Malicious extensions or plugins

Security experts caution that organizations experimenting with agentic AI must implement strong safeguards, access controls and monitoring.

As the technology matures, governance frameworks for AI agents will likely become an essential part of enterprise IT strategy.

The Beginning of Agentic AI

The broader story surrounding OpenClaw is not just about one software project.

It reflects the beginning of a new phase in artificial intelligence—one where machines are not merely tools for thinking, but systems capable of executing complex work.

The shift from chat interfaces to autonomous agents may ultimately prove as significant as the introduction of cloud computing or smartphones.

For businesses and individuals alike, the question is no longer simply how to use AI to generate information.

It is how to manage a future where AI systems actively participate in the work itself.

And if the early momentum behind agentic platforms continues, the digital workforce may be arriving sooner than many expect.

 

MTN Zambia Completes Starlink Direct-to-Cell Test as Airtel Africa Plans Wider Rollout

James Musoba
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0
MTN Zambia Completes Starlink Direct-to-Cell Test as Airtel Africa Plans Wider Rollout

MTN Zambia said it has completed field testing of satellite-to-mobile connectivity using Starlink Direct-to-Cell technology, a milestone the operator described as the first such test by a mobile network in Africa.

The trial involved transmitting a data session and a fintech transaction using MTN Zambia’s licensed spectrum combined with Starlink’s low-Earth-orbit satellite constellation, the company said in a statement.

The successful tests pave the way for a potential commercial launch in the coming weeks, subject to regulatory approval.

Direct-to-Cell technology allows standard LTE/4G smartphones to connect directly to satellites when outside terrestrial mobile coverage, enabling services such as voice and video calls, messaging and access to mobile applications including WhatsApp and MTN’s mobile money platform MTN MoMo.

The satellites act as cellphone towers in space using phased-array antennas and connect across the Starlink network through laser links, enabling integration with mobile networks in a manner similar to international roaming.

MTN Zambia said the technology could significantly extend coverage to remote regions including rural communities, national parks and areas surrounded by rivers and water bodies where building terrestrial infrastructure is difficult.

The development comes as satellite-to-mobile connectivity gains traction across Africa. In December, Airtel Africa announced a partnership with Starlink to introduce the same Direct-to-Cell satellite technology across its 14 African markets, targeting areas without traditional cellular coverage.

The Airtel rollout, expected to begin in 2026, aims to allow compatible smartphones to send messages and access data services directly via Starlink satellites without additional hardware.

Telecom operators globally are increasingly partnering with satellite providers as they seek to close connectivity gaps in rural and underserved regions where deploying conventional cell towers is expensive or impractical.

 

Cassava Technologies Unveils Dedicated AI Division

Diana Mutheu
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Cassava Technologies Unveils Dedicated AI Division

Cassava Technologies, the UK-based systems integrator, has announced the launch of a specialist business unit, Cassava AI, to consolidate its artificial intelligence operations.

The move marks a significant shift for the group as it seeks to capitalise on the surging demand for Generative AI across emerging markets.

Headquartered in London, the new entity aims to bridge the gap between global AI innovators and enterprise customers in developing economies.

Underpinning this new venture is a series of strategic alliances with industry titans.

Since the rise of Generative AI, Cassava has secured partnerships with Microsoft, Google, AWS, Anthropic, Oracle, Atlas AI, Cerebras, and Palo Alto Networks.

By leveraging these relationships, Cassava AI intends to provide high-level systems integration and support.

Furthermore, this initiative complements the group’s existing portfolio, which already spans: Data centres and cloud computing, cybersecurity and fibre connectivity and renewable energy solutions.

To facilitate this technological leap, the organisation has already begun a large-scale internal upskilling programme.

Consequently, more than 200 members of Cassava’s 5,000-strong workforce have been trained and deployed to assist clients in adopting Generative AI tools.

The group, founded by African entrepreneur Strive Masiyiwa, is backed by several prominent global institutional investors.

Leadership of the new London-based unit has been handed to Ahmed El Beheiry, a veteran of the telecommunications and technology sectors.

While the unit is managed from the UK, its operational footprint is extensive.

Hardy Pemhiwa, President and Group CEO, noted the scale of the rollout, stating: “Cassava AI is headquartered in London and can already provide services in any of the 40-plus markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, where the Cassava Technologies group companies operate.”

Smile ID Report: East Africa Grapples with Surge in AI-Driven Fraud and ‘Execution Gap’

Diana Mutheu
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0
Smile ID Report: East Africa Grapples with Surge in AI-Driven Fraud and ‘Execution Gap’

The rapid expansion of East Africa’s digital economy is outstripping its security foundations, as fraudsters increasingly use artificial intelligence to exploit the region’s mobile-first infrastructure.

According to the 2026 Digital Identity Fraud Report by Smile ID, the landscape of cybercrime in East Africa has reached a critical turning point.

While the region remains a global leader in digital payments, with mobile money now accounting for 53% of Kenya’s GDP, this digital maturity has inadvertently widened the attack surface.

In 2025 alone, Kenya recorded a staggering 4.5 billion cyber threat events, losing an estimated KSh 29.9 billion ($230 million) to cybercrime.

A significant finding in the report is the emergence of what experts call an “execution gap.”

Despite 74% of East African organisations ranking cyber risk as their top strategic priority, only 29% currently conduct regular tabletop exercises to prepare for breaches.

This lack of operational resilience is being exploited by attackers who have shifted their strategy from “breaking in” to “logging in.”

By using AI-generated deepfakes and stolen credentials, fraudsters are now targeting the very trust layers that mobile money systems rely on, with nearly 48% of regional attacks now focused on authentication.

The report highlights a particularly sharp rise in sophisticated biometric attacks within the region.

In Tanzania, deepfake-driven fraud attempts surged by a massive 317% over the last year, while Kenya saw an 87% increase in mobile banking fraud.

These statistics underscore a shift toward “injection-style” attacks, where criminals use emulators to bypass smartphone cameras and feed synthetic media directly into verification systems.

Smile ID reported that across Africa, these injection attempts reached 100,000 per month in 2025, a trend that has now been elevated to a central threat category for 2026.

As the tactics become more industrialised, the “Modern Fraudster” in East Africa is increasingly identified as young, tech-savvy, and operating within coordinated networks.

In one instance, Smile ID traced more than 160,000 fraudulent attempts back to just 100 facial identities, with some individual faces appearing over 12,000 times across multiple platforms.

This level of automation allows criminal syndicates to move funds across platforms at scale, often targeting high-value actions such as account recovery and device changes rather than initial sign-ups.

“Fraud is no longer a ‘KYC’ problem — it is a continuous cybersecurity challenge,” said Mark Straub, CEO of Smile ID. “AI enables fraudsters to operate at unprecedented scale and sophistication. Effective defence now requires network intelligence.”

To counter this, the report advocates for a “network defence” model.

By leveraging internally tuned Large Language Models (LLMs) and privacy-preserving metadata, Smile ID has been able to surface hundreds of thousands of examples of coordinated abuse that would otherwise appear legitimate in isolation.

For East African businesses, the message from the 2026 report is clear: as identity enters the “security era,” staying ahead of AI-driven threats requires moving beyond one-time checkpoints toward continuous, ecosystem-wide protection.

CEO Weekends: Ryan Mule on Why Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is ‘Best in the Market’

Sam Wakoba
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CEO Weekends: Ryan Mule on Why Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is ‘Best in the Market’

Samsung Electronics recently launched its flagship devices, the Galaxy S26 series at its #GalaxyUnpacked event, emphasizing AI integration, advanced hardware, and user-centric design.

Ryan Mule, Samsung East Africa’s Product Manager for the Mobile Experience Division shared insights on the devices’ capabilities, including AI-driven features, One UI enhancements, and practical upgrades for everyday users.

From Smartphone to AI Phone

Samsung has declared 2026 as the year of “AI-First,” advancing from simple AI tools to what the company calls agentic AI – where the device performs multi-step tasks autonomously. “For instance, with the S26, you can instruct it to order an Uber, and it will complete the process within the app itself, rather than just notifying you to do so,” Mule explained.

He noted that AI development began with the Galaxy S24 and progressed with the S25, gradually enhancing tasks like meeting transcription, photo editing, and productivity management. “Features like AI transcription have been practical for me personally. With a hand injury, I record meetings and use transcription to take notes automatically,” Mule said.

Photography and Privacy Upgrades

The Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces improvements in photography and privacy. The device’s Privacy Display protects sensitive content natively, adjusting automatically in crowded spaces or public transport. “It’s simple but practical – you don’t need external privacy screen protectors anymore,” Mule noted.

Camera performance is also enhanced. The Ultra features lenses with apertures down to F1.2, allowing more light for high-quality photos in various conditions. Integrated AI optimizations improve both photos and videos, catering to content creators and professional users alike.

AI for Productivity

For day-to-day practical use, Samsung’s Galaxy AI features include Now Nudge, which anticipates user needs by contextual understanding. “Your phone can proactively suggest contact details or actions, speeding up tasks and improving productivity,” Mule said. Other AI capabilities, including photo editing by text prompt, highlight Samsung’s focus on blending AI into daily routines.

Performance and One UI Enhancements

The S26 Ultra runs on Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, while the S26 Plus and Base models feature the Exynos 2600. Mule emphasized that Exynos 2600 ranks among the top processors globally, ensuring strong performance for users outside the U.S.

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 powers enhanced automated actions, Circle to Search, and AI Select, delivering smoother navigation and optimized AI experiences across the new devices. Initially exclusive to the S26, these features will later roll out to older models.

Local Adaptation and Financing

Samsung considered user feedback from Kenya and Africa in shaping the S26 series, focusing on durability, affordability, and battery performance. The devices feature armored aluminum construction, water and dust resistance, and fast charging up to 60 watts – achieving 75% battery in 30 minutes.

While Samsung does not currently offer a trade-in program, financing options are available through Loop, allowing installment plans with deposits starting at around Ksh 10,000.

Why the Galaxy S26 Ultra Stands Out

“Samsung is taking AI on mobile seriously,” Mule said. “Beyond enhancing photos, the S26 integrates AI into lifestyle and productivity. Features like Now Nudge and enhanced automated actions demonstrate practical AI that makes the device genuinely useful for daily life.”

With its combination of high-performance hardware, AI-first functionality, and user-centric design, the Galaxy S26 Ultra positions itself as a leading contender in the global smartphone market.

 

M-PESA hits 40 Million Customers as Safaricom Expands Beyond Payments

Ronald Bwire
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0
M-PESA hits 40 Million Customers as Safaricom Expands Beyond Payments

Kenya’s Safaricom said on Friday its mobile money platform M-PESA has reached 40 million monthly active customers, marking a major milestone as the service celebrates 19 years since launch and continues to expand its role in the country’s financial ecosystem.

Launched on March 6, 2007 as a simple person-to-person money transfer service, M-PESA has evolved into a comprehensive digital financial platform offering savings, credit, investment and merchant payment services used daily by millions of individuals and businesses.

Today, the platform supports a growing suite of financial products including investment and wealth management tools such as Ziidi MMF and Ziidi Trader, credit services like Fuliza and KCB M-PESA, and business payment solutions such as Lipa na M-PESA, Pochi la Biashara and Global Pay.

“Our goal is to give Kenyans, and Africa at large, digital financial tools to empower them to be more prosperous,” Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa said in a statement. “Reaching 40 million monthly active customers in Kenya is a milestone we celebrate as we recommit to enable every Kenyan to transact safely, grow their savings and build their wealth.”

Over the past year, Safaricom said it has continued investing in technology upgrades, fraud-prevention systems and customer education, measures aimed at improving the security, usability and reliability of M-PESA as digital transactions increase.

The company’s Fintech 2.0 strategy has accelerated M-PESA’s transformation from a payments platform into a broader financial services ecosystem, enabling users to save, borrow, invest and manage money directly from their mobile devices while maintaining strong safeguards for personal data and funds.

By lowering barriers to entry for financial products such as savings and investments, Safaricom says the platform is helping more Kenyans participate in wealth-building opportunities that were previously limited to traditional banking channels.

The growth of M-PESA reflects a wider shift across Africa toward mobile-led financial inclusion, where digital platforms are bridging long-standing gaps in access to formal financial systems.

Since its introduction nearly two decades ago, mobile money has played a central role in expanding financial access in Kenya, enabling millions of people to transact, save and borrow money using basic mobile phones.

Safaricom says it will continue innovating on the platform as it looks to deepen financial wellness and digital access for customers across the country.

“M-PESA remains committed to ensuring that everyone has the confidence and tools to navigate life’s financial journey,” Ndegwa said.

Safaricom, listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, serves more than 60 million customers across Kenya and Ethiopia and reported annual revenues of nearly 388 billion Kenyan shillings for the financial year ending March 2025. M-PESA remains the company’s largest fintech platform and one of the world’s most successful mobile money systems.

Cybervergent Raises $3 Million Seed to Expand AI-Driven Cybersecurity Platform in Africa

Ronald Bwire
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0
Cybervergent Raises $3 Million Seed to Expand AI-Driven Cybersecurity Platform in Africa

Cybersecurity startup Cybervergent has raised $3 million in a seed funding round co-led by venture capital firms Ventures Platform and Atlantica Ventures to expand its artificial intelligence-driven governance, risk and compliance platform across Africa, the company said on Thursday.

The funding will support the company’s regional expansion and accelerate development of its AI-native posture management platform, which helps organizations continuously monitor and manage security, compliance and digital risk across cloud environments and third-party systems.

Africa’s fast-growing digital economy has increased the complexity of cybersecurity and regulatory compliance for companies operating across multiple jurisdictions. Many organizations still rely on spreadsheets, fragmented tools and periodic audits to manage compliance, approaches that are increasingly inadequate as digital operations become continuous.

Cybervergent said its platform enables organizations to move from periodic compliance checks to real-time monitoring of their security and regulatory posture.

“We built Cybervergent to make digital trust a continuous reality for organizations across Africa,” said co-founder and Chief Executive Adetokunbo Omotosho.

The company said more than 150 organizations across West, East and Southern Africa currently use its platform to manage governance, risk, compliance and data security processes.

Cybervergent’s system supports more than 4,500 regulatory and security controls mapped across multiple frameworks and uses automated workflows to help companies implement and maintain compliance.

The startup said automation within the platform can accelerate compliance, risk management and audit initiatives by more than 70%.

Cybervergent plans to use the funding to expand into additional African markets and strengthen its AI capabilities, including deeper automation of governance and compliance workflows and more advanced security posture intelligence.

Investment in cybersecurity startups has been rising globally as companies face increasing regulatory requirements and growing threats linked to cloud adoption, fintech growth and digital infrastructure expansion. In Africa, the shift toward digital financial services and cloud computing has created new demand for tools that help organizations manage security and regulatory risk.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Wins ‘Best in Show’ at MWC 2026

Sam Wakoba
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0
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Wins ‘Best in Show’ at MWC 2026

Samsung Electronics said its flagship Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has won the “Best in Show” award at the Global Mobile Awards (GLOMO) during the Mobile World Congress 2026.

The awards, presented annually by the GSMA during MWC, recognize standout innovations across the global mobile industry. The Best in Show category highlights consumer-focused products judged to set new benchmarks for technology and real-world impact.

Samsung said the Galaxy S26 Ultra was recognized for combining advanced hardware with its latest software platform, One UI 8.5, designed to deliver a more intuitive and AI-driven mobile experience.

The smartphone features Galaxy AI, which the company said enables adaptive and context-aware assistance for everyday tasks while maintaining strong privacy and security protections.

Samsung also introduced what it described as the world’s first built-in Privacy Display, a technology designed to limit viewing angles and prevent others from seeing the screen while maintaining brightness and clarity for the user.

The device is powered by a customized chipset aimed at improving on-device AI processing, enabling faster performance for AI-powered applications and features.

“This year’s competition was exceptionally strong,” said Shaun Collins, chair of the Best in Show judging panel. “The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra stood out for pushing the boundaries of mobile technology while delivering meaningful real-world impact.”

Among more than 3,000 exhibitors at Mobile World Congress, judges said the device distinguished itself by bringing forward-looking technologies into a commercially available product.

Stephanie Choi, executive vice president and head of the Mobile Marketing Center for Samsung’s Mobile eXperience (MX) Business, said the recognition reflects the company’s efforts to advance AI-powered smartphones designed to anticipate users’ needs.

Mobile World Congress, held annually in Barcelona, is one of the world’s largest technology trade shows, bringing together mobile device makers, telecom operators and technology firms to showcase new products and innovations.

 

Communications Authority of Kenya to Map National Fiber Network to End ‘Wasteful’ Spending

Diana Mutheu
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Communications Authority of Kenya to Map National Fiber Network to End ‘Wasteful’ Spending

Kenya’s communications regulator has launched a major push to create a national database of fiber optic cables, warning that a lack of coordination is leading to the “unnecessary duplication” of infrastructure and a waste of public funds.

Speaking at a workshop at Nairobi’s Utalii Hotel on Tuesday, the Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), David Mugonyi, told telecom operators that the country can no longer afford to “operate with this level of confusion.”

While Kenya has invested heavily in broadband, boasting a network that spans all 47 counties and includes multiple submarine cables, the terrestrial map remains a patchwork of inconsistent data.

Consequently, public initiatives like the Digital Superhighway have occasionally funded new cables along routes where fiber already exists, simply because there was no reliable central record to check.

The regulator is now proposing the adoption of the Open Fiber Data Standard (OFDS), an international benchmark designed to harmonise how infrastructure is reported.

This move is supported by World Bank funding through the Kenya Digital Economy Acceleration Project.

Mr Mugonyi highlighted the physical and financial risks of the current system, noting that construction crews frequently damage cables they did not know were there.

“Investment decisions have at times advanced without knowledge of existing infrastructure,” he said, “resulting in the unnecessary duplication of routes, inefficient allocation of capital, preventable damage during construction, and the inability to accurately identify underserved areas.”

Despite the push for transparency, the CA chief was quick to reassure private operators that the database would not be a “free-for-all” for sensitive corporate data.

In a competitive market where network maps are often guarded as trade secrets, the regulator has promised a “thoughtful” rollout.

“It is not a platform for the indiscriminate disclosure of sensitive information or a pathway to compromising commercial interests,” Mr Mugonyi pointed out.

To address these concerns, the Communications Authority has outlined a phased approach that begins with a limited set of non-sensitive data fields.

By starting with basic information, the regulator aims to build the foundation of the national map without immediately requiring the disclosure of highly strategic assets.

Furthermore, access to the database will be strictly controlled on a “need-to-know” basis to ensure that information is only available to relevant stakeholders.

In an effort to foster collaboration, the CA intends to include industry representatives directly in the governance of the system.

This inclusion is designed to give telecom operators a voice in how their data is managed and used.

To further bolster confidence, the regulator has committed to appointing independent cybersecurity auditors from the outset, ensuring that the platform remains secure and that commercial interests are protected against unauthorized access.

The workshop marks the beginning of a consultation period rather than a final policy directive.

The CA is calling on the private sector to help define the technical parameters and the governance model to ensure the system is “founded on trust.”

Ultimately, the regulator argues that a shared map will benefit everyone by lowering deployment costs and improving the resilience of the national network.

As Mr Mugonyi concluded: “We need each other – government, industry, and development partners. This is good for all of us.”

Zeno Raises $25 Million to Scale Electric Vehicle Ecosystem in East Africa

James Musoba
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0
Zeno Raises $25 Million to Scale Electric Vehicle Ecosystem in East Africa

 

Electric mobility startup Zeno has raised $25 million in a Series A funding round to expand its electric motorcycle production and battery‑charging infrastructure across East Africa, as demand for cleaner and cheaper transport alternatives grows in the region.

The funding round combines equity and debt financing and will support the scale‑up of the company’s Emara electric motorcycle alongside the rollout of battery‑swap stations and charging points across major urban centres.

The equity portion of the round was led by Congruent Ventures, with participation from investors including Active Impact Investments and Lowercarbon Capital, while debt financing was provided by Trifecta Capital and Camber Road.

Zeno said the new funding will help accelerate production of its electric motorcycles and expand its multi‑modal charging network, which includes battery‑swap stations, public charging hubs and home‑charging options for riders and fleet operators.

The company currently operates in several East African cities and has deployed more than 150 charging points serving close to 1,000 customers, including delivery fleets and motorcycle taxi riders.

Electric motorcycles are increasingly viewed as a key entry point for Africa’s energy transition because they offer significantly lower operating costs compared with petrol‑powered bikes. Zeno estimates riders can cut operating expenses by roughly half by switching to electric models.

The investment comes amid a rising wave of activity in Africa’s electric mobility sector. Established players such as Ampersand, which operates thousands of e‑motorcycles and an extensive battery‑swap network in Rwanda and Kenya, are scaling rapidly, while companies like Spiro are expanding across multiple countries with tens of thousands of bikes and hundreds of swap stations. Other startups, including Ghana‑based Kofa, are developing battery swapping systems and tailored e‑motorcycles, further intensifying competition and innovation in the region’s EV ecosystem.

Zeno said it plans to use the new capital to expand its presence across additional East African markets while strengthening its charging infrastructure and energy subscription services.

 

NCBA Drives Sustainable Homeownership with Electric Property Tour and Solar Leasing Solution

Brand Voice
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NCBA Drives Sustainable Homeownership with Electric Property Tour and Solar Leasing Solution

NCBA Bank has reinforced its commitment to sustainable and affordable homeownership by hosting its annual Property Investment Tour using fully electric buses and unveiling its new Solar Leasing Solution aimed at making clean energy more accessible for Kenyan households.

The initiative comes at a time when homeownership rates in Kenya are facing increasing pressure due to rising property prices, stagnant household incomes, and limited access to long-term mortgage financing. These challenges have made it increasingly difficult for many Kenyans to transition from renting to owning homes.

Through the Property Investment Tour, NCBA brought together prospective homeowners, property developers, and financial advisors in an immersive experience designed to simplify the home-buying journey. Participants were transported to various residential developments where they had the opportunity to explore different housing options, interact directly with developers, and gain practical insights into property investment and homeownership.

The use of fully electric buses for the tour also reflected NCBA’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate-conscious innovation. By integrating clean mobility into the event, the bank sought to demonstrate how sustainability can be embedded across different sectors, including housing and finance.

During the tour, NCBA also introduced its Solar Leasing Solution, a financing model designed to enable homeowners to adopt solar energy without the high upfront costs typically associated with solar installations. Through the leasing model, customers can access solar power systems and pay for them through manageable installments, helping households reduce electricity costs while contributing to a cleaner energy mix.

The bank highlighted that the Solar Leasing Solution complements its broader property finance offering, which includes mortgages, home improvement financing, insurance solutions, and green energy financing options designed to support more sustainable living.

By combining property exposure, financing guidance, and renewable energy solutions in a single initiative, NCBA aims to empower customers with the tools and knowledge needed to make informed property investment decisions.

The initiative underscores NCBA’s broader commitment to advancing inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient homeownership across Kenya while helping more families access housing solutions that are both financially viable and environmentally responsible.

NCBA Urges Kenyan Corporates to Tap Global Capital as it Unveils Five-year Strategy

Brand Voice
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NCBA Urges Kenyan Corporates to Tap Global Capital as it Unveils Five-year Strategy

NCBA Group has urged Kenyan corporates to position themselves to attract global investment as the lender unveiled a new five-year strategy aimed at strengthening its role in financing key sectors of the economy.

The bank made the call during the 2026 NCBA Corporate Golf Day at Karen Country Club in Nairobi, where business leaders gathered to discuss Kenya’s growing appeal to international investors.

Recent developments including Nedbank Group’s proposed acquisition of a 66% stake in NCBA, the Kenyan government’s sale of a 15% stake in Safaricom to Vodacom, and Diageo’s plan to sell its 65% stake in East African Breweries Limited to Japan’s Asahi Group Holdings highlight increasing foreign capital flows into the country’s strategic sectors.

“Kenya’s role as a regional financial hub, supported by strong institutions, sophisticated markets and a dynamic technology sector, makes it a natural anchor for investment,” said James Gossip, managing director for NCBA Kenya.

He said the bank was strengthening its digital banking offerings, including its Connect Plus platform, to help businesses integrate across value chains and operate more efficiently in a digital-first economy.

Agriculture remains central to Kenya’s economy, contributing more than 20% of gross domestic product directly and over 30% when value chain linkages are included, while financial services and ICT each account for about 8–9% of GDP.

NCBA said its corporate banking footprint spans several key sectors, including banking seven of the country’s top 10 SACCOs, financing 60% of the sugar industry, and supporting more than half of the tea sector and about 30% of the floriculture industry.

The lender also launched its UBUNTU Strategy 2026–2030, which it said aims to strengthen collaboration with businesses and institutions while focusing on long-term growth.

As part of its sustainability agenda, the bank distributed 5,000 tree seedlings to participants at the event, contributing to its target of growing 10 million trees by 2030.

Absa Integrates M-Pesa into New Premium Metal Card to Capture Kenya’s Dual-Payment Market

Diana Mutheu
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Absa Integrates M-Pesa into New Premium Metal Card to Capture Kenya’s Dual-Payment Market

Absa Bank Kenya has entered the high-end payment market with the launch of its new Visa Infinite Metal card, a product designed to bridge the gap between global luxury and local utility.

The new offering, available in both debit and credit variants, was officially introduced by a senior executive team including Consumer Banking Director, Moses Muthui and Head of Card Payments, Linda Kimani.

The move signals a strategic shift for the lender as it attempts to capture a larger share of the affluent banking segment.

While the card carries the prestige associated with the “Infinite” branding, its most distinctive feature is its integration with Kenya’s local economy.

Most notably, the card allows for direct payments to M-Pesa Paybill and Till numbers, a functionality that acknowledges the dominance of mobile money in the country.

Beyond its local mobile money integration, the card is equipped with several modern payment technologies, including NFC capabilities that support “Tap n’ Pay” via smartphones as well as wearable technology compatibility for seamless contactless transactions through Garmin smartwatches.

Also, it supports flexible financing via the  “Buy Now Pay Later” (BNPL) feature accessible through the Absa Mobile App.

In addition to its digital features, the metal card focuses heavily on the needs of frequent international travelers.

Cardholders are granted access to curated travel offers in major global hubs such as Dubai, London, and New York via the Visa Destination proposition.

Safety also remains a priority for the premium tier.

Consequently, the card includes an international travel insurance cover valued at up to USD 2.5 million, providing a significant safety net for globetrotting professionals.

According to Moses Muthui, Absa’s Director of Consumer Banking, this launch is merely the beginning of a broader overhaul of the bank’s financial products.

“The Visa Infinite card marks the first phase of a wider refresh of the bank’s card solutions,” Mr. Muthui stated.

He further explained that the strategy is centered on merging mobility and premium benefits into a single, seamless product.

As Kenya’s payment ecosystem becomes increasingly “hybrid,” Absa’s latest move places it in direct competition with other top-tier banks targeting the “affluent” demographic.

By embedding M-Pesa compatibility within a global Visa framework, the bank is betting that even the most elite customers still value the convenience of local mobile money solutions.

BasiGo Launches Kenya’s First Electric School Bus Fleet in Nairobi

Diana Mutheu
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BasiGo Launches Kenya’s First Electric School Bus Fleet in Nairobi

In a landmark move for Kenya’s education sector, the School of the Nations has become the first institution in the country to begin electrifying its student transport fleet.

The Nairobi-based school took delivery of its first electric bus from BasiGo this week, marking the start of an ambitious transition.

Under the new agreement, the school plans to convert its entire transport operation to electric power over the course of 2026.

The debut vehicle is a 25-seat BYD electric bus, which arrived in Kenya in 2023.

While the technology is cutting-edge, the vehicle itself has a proven track record; it has spent the last three years operating within Nairobi’s rigorous public transport network.

Following this initial delivery, the fleet is set to expand rapidly. In the coming months, 10 BasiGo Ma3E electric vans will join the primary bus to complete the school’s 11-vehicle order.

To support the rollout, BasiGo is installing dedicated charging infrastructure on the school grounds and providing the institution with access to its wider network of charging depots.

The partnership highlights a new “refurbishment programme” designed by BasiGo to lower the barrier to entry for green technology.

By restoring used public transport buses to near-new condition, the company can offer electric mobility at a significantly lower price point than new models.

Jit Bhattacharya, Chief Executive and Co-Founder of BasiGo, believes this model is the key to scaling the technology.

He stated: “Forward-looking institutions like the School of the Nations are proving that clean mobility is not just viable, but practical and scalable across new sectors. Schools in particular represent a strong and sustainable market for second-hand electric buses, enabling institutions to access clean transport solutions at a lower cost.”

For the School of the Nations, the move is as much about education as it is about logistics.

The school intends to use the fleet as a practical example of environmental stewardship for its students.

Dr Hwaock Im, the school’s Principal, noted that the investment serves both the environment and the student body.

“It provides clean, quiet transport for our learners while helping us reduce emissions,” Dr Im said. “More importantly, it allows our students to see sustainability in action, not just in textbooks, but in their daily commute. By adopting electric transport, we are showing them that the future they study is one we are actively building.”

As interest in low-emission mobility grows across East Africa, the school’s 2026 target positions it as an early adopter in a rapidly evolving transport landscape.

Showmax to Shutdown, MultiChoice Claims Heavy Losses

Diana Mutheu
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Showmax to Shutdown, MultiChoice Claims Heavy Losses

The ambitious attempt to create an “African Netflix” has come to an abrupt end.

Canal+, the French media giant that recently seized the reins of MultiChoice, has confirmed it will shutter its streaming service, Showmax, claiming it has been making loses.

The move comes as part of a ruthless cost-cutting drive following Canal+’s acquisition of the South African pay-TV group in September 2025.

While a specific “dark day” for the platform has not yet been set due to lingering legal complexities, sources indicate the service will be discontinued “soon.”

The closure marks a dramatic fall for a platform that was once the crown jewel of MultiChoice’s digital strategy.

Launched 11 years ago in August 2015, Showmax was designed to defend the company’s legacy pay-TV base against the encroaching global might of Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video.

Despite a high-profile relaunch just two years ago in February 2024—leveraging NBCUniversal’s Peacock technology, the service failed to gain the necessary altitude.

Even with a combined $309 million in equity funding from MultiChoice and NBCUniversal, the aggressive subscriber targets promised to investors remained out of reach.

In a recent call with investors, Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada was blunt about the platform’s performance, describing its failure as “quite obvious” and noting it was “not a commercial success.”

The financial bleeding at Showmax had become unsustainable for the new parent company.

According to recent financial disclosures, the streaming service’s fiscal health deteriorated sharply as trading losses surged by 88% in the final year leading up to the takeover.

Despite heavy capital investment, revenue experienced a significant decline, leaving a financial void that the new parent company intends to fill through aggressive restructuring.

Consequently, Canal+ has established a rigorous savings target, aiming to shave 400 million euro off its combined budget by 2030 to ensure long-term stability.

“The decision to axe Showmax reflects the continued focus on financial discipline and investment optimization,” the company stated, citing an “increasingly competitive and capital-intensive” global market.

While the standalone app is disappearing, the content itself is being repurposed. MultiChoice has already begun rebranding “Showmax Originals” under its traditional broadcast banners, such as Africa Magic, M-Net, and kykNET.

This content will now transition to DStv’s linear channels.

Furthermore, Canal+ appears to be pivoting away from direct competition with global giants in favor of collaboration.

Following a June agreement to bundle Netflix into its offerings across 24 Francophone countries, insiders suggest this strategy will likely be rolled out across the rest of the continent.

The news has sent shockwaves through the African film community, coming just two years after Amazon MGM Studios halted original commissions in the region in January 2024.

One award-winning South African director-producer told Variety that the loss of Showmax is a “huge blow” to the industry.

“Showmax was one of the only platforms willing to back stories that were bold and authentic. Losing it leaves very little hope that Canal+ will fill that gap with anything of value,” the filmmaker said. “It feels like this horse is getting sent to the factory to be turned into glue.”

In a rare piece of silver lining, there will be no immediate job losses. Under the terms of the acquisition, Canal+ is prohibited from retrenching staff for a period of three years.

Consequently, Showmax employees will be reassigned to other roles within the broader MultiChoice group.

All eyes now turn to March 11, when Canal+ is scheduled to report its first full-year combined financial results since taking control of MultiChoice.

Anthropic, Rwanda Sign AI Partnership to Boost Health and Education

Ronald Bwire
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Anthropic, Rwanda Sign AI Partnership to Boost Health and Education

U.S.-based artificial intelligence company Anthropic and the Government of Rwanda have signed a three-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) to expand AI use in the country’s health, education, and public sectors.

The agreement formalizes Anthropic’s multi-sector collaboration in Africa, building on a November 2025 education partnership providing AI tools and training to teachers.

Under the MOU, Anthropic will support Rwanda’s health goals, including efforts to eliminate cervical cancer, reduce malaria, and lower maternal mortality. It will also provide government developers with access to its Claude AI models and training, and expand AI literacy programs for public servants and educators, deploying AI learning tools across eight African countries.

“This partnership is an important milestone in Rwanda’s AI journey,” said Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation.

Anthropic’s Elizabeth Kelly said the focus is on “training, technical support and capacity building so AI can be used safely and independently” across Rwanda.

 

Apple Launches MacBook Neo at $599, Targets Education Market

James Musoba
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Apple Launches MacBook Neo at $599, Targets Education Market

Apple on Thursday unveiled MacBook Neo, a new 13-inch laptop with Apple silicon, a Liquid Retina display, and all-day battery life, starting at $599. Apple positions the device as its most affordable Mac yet, designed to compete with Chromebooks and other education-focused laptops.

The MacBook Neo is available in blush, indigo, silver, and citrus and weighs 2.7 pounds, making it portable for students and classrooms. The 13-inch display offers 2408-by-1506 resolution, 500 nits of brightness, and support for 1 billion colors.

Powered by the A18 Pro chip, Apple says the laptop is up to 50% faster than Intel Core Ultra 5 PCs for everyday tasks and up to three times faster for AI workloads. It also features a 16-core Neural Engine, fanless design, and integrated GPU for graphics-intensive tasks.

The laptop delivers up to 16 hours of battery life, and includes a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, dual mics, Spatial Audio speakers, a Magic Keyboard, and a Multi-Touch trackpad. Touch ID is included on select models.

Apple highlighted MacBook Neo’s environmental credentials, with 60% recycled content, including 90% recycled aluminum, and manufacturing using 45% renewable electricity.

Pre-orders start immediately, with in-store availability beginning March 11. Education pricing is $499, giving Apple a stronger foothold in classrooms traditionally dominated by Chromebooks.

John Ternus, Apple’s senior VP of Hardware Engineering, said the MacBook Neo “delivers the magic of the Mac at a breakthrough price,” emphasizing performance, design, and value tailored for students and educators.

Apple Unveils Lower-cost iPhone 17e with A19 Chip, MagSafe & 256GB Storage

James Musoba
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Apple Unveils Lower-cost iPhone 17e with A19 Chip, MagSafe & 256GB Storage

Apple on Tuesday introduced the iPhone 17e, a more affordable addition to its iPhone 17 lineup, aiming to offer high-end performance and features at a lower price point as competition intensifies in the global smartphone market.

Priced from $599, the iPhone 17e starts with 256GB of storage, doubling the entry capacity of the previous generation at the same price, Apple said. Pre-orders open on March 4, with availability beginning March 11 in more than 70 countries.

The device is powered by Apple’s latest A19 processor, built on advanced 3-nanometer technology, delivering up to twice the CPU performance of iPhone 11, according to the company. It also debuts C1X, Apple’s newest in-house cellular modem, which Apple says is up to 2x faster than the modem used in the iPhone 16e while consuming less power.

Apple is positioning the iPhone 17e as a long-lasting upgrade option, combining performance gains with durability improvements. The phone features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display protected by Ceramic Shield 2, offering improved scratch resistance and reduced glare, and carries an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.

On imaging, the iPhone 17e includes a 48-megapixel Fusion camera, enabling optical-quality 2x zoom and enhanced portrait photography using machine learning. Video recording supports 4K Dolby Vision at up to 60 frames per second, along with Spatial Audio for immersive playback on compatible devices.

The model also brings MagSafe back to Apple’s lower-priced iPhone tier, enabling faster wireless charging and compatibility with a wide range of accessories. Wired charging via USB-C can reach 50% in about 30 minutes, Apple said.

Safety and connectivity features include Emergency SOS, Messages, Find My, and Roadside Assistance via satellite, as well as Crash Detection, extending capabilities first introduced on higher-end models.

iPhone 17e ships with iOS 26, introducing Apple Intelligence features such as Live Translation, call screening, and on-screen visual intelligence, though some functions remain in beta and vary by region and language.

Available in black, white, and soft pink, Apple said the iPhone 17e is manufactured with 30% recycled content as part of its broader Apple 2030 carbon-neutral initiative.

“With iPhone 17e, we’re bringing powerful performance, smarter cameras, and long-term value to more customers,” said Kaiann Drance, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide iPhone Product Marketing.

Apple is offering trade-in credits of up to $599 in select markets through carrier and Apple Trade In programs, the company said.

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