Mauritania's telecom companies Mattel, Mauritel, and Chinguitel have been directed by the Regulatory Authority (ARE) to introduce national roaming in all regions where only one of them currently provides coverage. This directive is to be carried out before December 31st.
General News
North African Market Welcomes TecAlliance
The Moroccan automotive market has showcased significant potential, propelled by factors such as long-term industry growth projections, substantial foreign investment, government incentives, and advantageous trade agreements that position Morocco as a burgeoning hub for automotive production and export.
ITU Africa Forum Names New President
In a significant milestone for Ethiopia's tech and communications sector, Eng. Balcha Reba, director general of the Ethiopian Communications Authority, has been chosen to lead the International Telecommunication Union Regional Development Forum for Africa (RDF-AFR) in 2023.
Kenya Capitalizes on Renewable Energy Leadership to Attract Green Data Centers
Kenya Power, the utility company, intends to harness off-peak capacity to support Kenya's shift towards electric mobility. Kenya boasts an electricity generation capacity of 3,321 MW, with a peak demand of 2,200 MW and a low overnight off-peak demand of 1,100 MW.
Zambia to Tax Mobile Money in 2024
The Zambian government is considering the implementation of a tax on mobile money transactions.
Kenya Welcomes Investment From Silicon Valley
William Ruto, President of Kenya, has extended an invitation to American technology firms to establish manufacturing facilities and regional offices in Kenya.
Starlink and Jumia Partner to Expand Services in Africa
SpaceX and e-commerce giant Jumia Technologies AG have joined forces to accelerate the deployment of Starlink's satellite Internet network services in Africa. Through this partnership, Jumia will make Starlink terminals and satellite kits available in the African nations where it operates.
Gambia's Second Submarine Cable Project Receives World Bank Support
The Gambia is working on its second international fiber optic cable, expected to be operational by 2025. Minister Ousman A. Bah, responsible for communication and digital economy, announced that the World Bank is funding the project with an estimated cost of between $30 and $35 million. While exact technical specifications were not given, Bah mentioned The Gambia's participation in the Cabral submarine cable project under ECOWAS. By teaming up with Guinea Conakry, they've managed to lower expenses, and the cable will run directly from Cape Verde to The Gambia.
Africa Witnesses an Increase in Q2 2023 Smartphone Sales
In Q2 2023, Africa experienced a 7.6% increase in smartphone shipments, rising from 18.1 million to 19.6 million units compared to Q2 in 2022, according to the International Data Corporation (IDC).
Ethiopia Extends Deadline for International Investors to Apply for Telecom License
The Ethiopian Communications Authority (ECA) has extended the deadline for international operators interested in applying for a new license to operate within the country.