In a sign of the challenges posed by the current global economic landscape, mobile operators worldwide are experiencing a noticeable decrease in their investments. This downturn comes as a result of the intricate interaction between economic uncertainties and evolving consumer behaviors.
General News
Zimbabwe Plans Free Internet Access for Citizens
Tatenda Mavetera - minister of information and communication technology, postal services, and courier in Zimbabwe - has unveiled a government initiative to offer free public internet access to the population. While the Minister didn't provide specific details about the project, she emphasized its potential to enhance citizens' information accessibility and boost e-commerce in the country.
Kenya Opens First Smartphone Factory
Kenya has inaugurated its first smartphone assembly plant in Machakos, aiming to produce cost-effective devices for the local population. The East Africa Device Assembly Kenya Limited (EADAK), a collaboration between local mobile network operators and international device manufacturers, will oversee the production.
Mozambique to Introduce Digital Economy Taxation in 2024
Mozambique is set to implement a tax on the digital economy starting next year. This move is aimed at addressing tax administration challenges and bolstering government revenue.
Zimbabwe Considers Dropping Mobile Money Tax
The Zimbabwean central bank has suggested eliminating the 2% tax on mobile money and digital transactions, potentially benefiting both operators and customers. This move aims to promote electronic payments in the country.
FG Partners with IHS Towers to Build 3MTT Communities
Dr. Bosun Tijani, the minister of communications, innovation, and digital economy, announced that the Federal Government has entered a N1 billion agreement with IHS Towers, a telecommunications company, to establish educational communities across Nigeria as part of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative.
Uganda Teams Up with China for Faster Internet Access
The Ugandan government is collaborating with China to establish essential infrastructure aimed at ensuring universal internet access.
Enjoy Free Public Internet Access in Malawi
The Malawian government has recently initiated a project to provide free internet access to public institutions across the country, including schools, courts, police stations, prisons, hospitals, and markets.
Mauritius Embarks on SIM Card Registration Initiative
Mauritius has recently launched a SIM card registration initiative, encompassing both new card purchases and the re-registration of existing ones. The government's objective is to ensure that each SIM card holder's identity is duly linked to their card.
Axian Telecom Boosts Ownership in Free to 80%
Madagascar's Axian has successfully completed its acquisition of additional shares in Senegal's Free. Initially announced on July 24th, this transaction will result in Axian increasing its ownership in Free from 40% to 80%. Free Senegal, boasting 5.36 million subscribers as of July 2023, holds a substantial 25% market share, solidifying its position as the second-largest operator in the market.