Home Blog

GrowthAfrica Opens Programme Lead Applications in Kenya, Ghana, Uganda and Rwanda

Lindsay Eke
-
0
GrowthAfrica Opens Programme Lead Applications in Kenya, Ghana, Uganda and Rwanda

GrowthAfrica, a leading business accelerator and entrepreneur support organisation, is recruiting Programme Leads in Kenya, Ghana, Uganda and Rwanda as it expands efforts to strengthen startup ecosystems and support women-led businesses across Africa.

The organisation is seeking experienced professionals with strong knowledge of their local innovation landscapes to oversee programme delivery, build partnerships and help entrepreneurs access opportunities for growth.

The recruitment drive is part of GrowthAfrica’s wider mission to promote digital innovation, entrepreneurship and inclusive economic development across sub-Saharan Africa.

Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Nairobi, GrowthAfrica has supported more than 5,000 businesses through business acceleration, incubation, investment readiness programmes and ecosystem development initiatives. The organisation works with entrepreneurs, investors, development partners and public institutions to improve access to capital, markets, technology and business support.

Under the new roles, Programme Leads will serve as GrowthAfrica’s main representatives in their assigned countries and will be responsible for turning regional strategies into local action. Around two-thirds of the position will focus on delivering acceleration programmes and supporting participating entrepreneurs.

Key responsibilities include managing entrepreneur recruitment, coordinating incubation and accelerator activities, organising workshops and training sessions, leading local programme teams and building relationships with investors, mentors, innovation hubs and government agencies.

The successful candidates will also oversee compliance with grant and safeguarding requirements while contributing to programme monitoring and evaluation.

A major priority of the initiative is supporting women entrepreneurs and expanding access to business opportunities beyond major cities. GrowthAfrica said Programme Leads will play an important role in identifying promising women-led ventures, encouraging participation from underserved communities and creating pathways for long-term business growth.

Applicants are expected to have between eight and ten years of programme or project management experience, particularly in entrepreneurship support, incubation or accelerator programmes. A degree in business, development studies, social sciences or a related field is required, while postgraduate qualifications and local language skills would be an added advantage.

The organisation is also looking for candidates with experience managing teams, engaging multiple stakeholders and working within startup ecosystems across sub-Saharan Africa. Existing relationships with innovation hubs, investors and entrepreneurship networks are considered beneficial.

GrowthAfrica said the positions offer an opportunity to contribute directly to Africa’s innovation economy by helping startups become market-ready and investment-ready while supporting job creation and economic development.

The organisation noted that successful candidates will gain exposure to regional innovation networks, multi-country programme implementation and entrepreneurship ecosystem development while working in a diverse international environment.

Applications are open to qualified professionals residing in Kenya, Ghana, Uganda and Rwanda who have legal authorisation to work in their chosen country. The deadline for submissions is 25 June 2026.

GrowthAfrica added that it is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Apply HERE.

Senegal’s Nixacom Launches Auto Apply to Simplify Digital Onboarding for Financial Institutions

Lindsay Eke
-
0
Senegal’s Nixacom Launches Auto Apply to Simplify Digital Onboarding for Financial Institutions

Senegalese technology financing startup Nixacom has introduced Auto Apply, a digital onboarding platform designed to help organisations replace slow, manual application processes with a faster and more automated system.

Founded in October 2023 by CEO Cheikh Gueye, CFO Elhaji Fall and CTO Wangel Yohannes, Nixacom initially focused on making premium technology products such as smartphones, laptops and tablets more accessible to individuals and businesses through financing solutions.

According to Gueye, the company’s experience in financial infrastructure revealed a wider challenge facing many organisations across Africa. As Nixacom expanded, it found that inefficient onboarding, identity verification and application processing were creating delays for both institutions and customers.

To solve this problem, the startup developed Auto Apply, a platform that digitises customer onboarding and automates document generation for institutions operating in emerging markets.

Gueye explained that many organisations still depend on paper forms and repetitive manual processes, requiring customers to submit the same information multiple times while staff spend hours entering, checking and organising data.

Auto Apply streamlines this workflow by allowing institutions to collect customer information through a single digital process. The platform can then automatically generate the necessary documents and contracts while performing identity verification in real time.

According to Nixacom, tasks that previously took hours or even days can now be completed within minutes, producing a structured and compliance-ready onboarding file that is delivered directly to the institution.

The company is already working with financial institutions to roll out the platform and says early feedback has been encouraging.

“There is a clear market need for solutions that improve efficiency while maintaining compliance standards,” Gueye said, noting that organisations are increasingly looking for technology that simplifies operations without compromising regulatory requirements.

With digital transformation gathering pace across Africa’s financial sector, platforms like Auto Apply could help institutions improve customer experiences, reduce administrative workloads and speed up access to financial services.

FEI and Norfund Fund Solar Expansion at 4,000 African Telecom Towers

Habeeb Ajala
-
0
FEI and Norfund Fund Solar Expansion at 4,000 African Telecom Towers

FEI, Norfund Back Solar Rollout at 4,000 Telecom Sites Across Africa

Africa’s transition toward cleaner and more resilient digital infrastructure received a major boost after the Facility for Energy Inclusion (FEI) and Norwegian development finance institution Norfund announced a combined $90 million financing package to support renewable energy deployment at telecom sites across the continent.

The funding will enable Communication & Renewable Energy Infrastructure (CREI) to expand solar-powered energy systems for telecommunications infrastructure in several African markets, including Mali, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic.

FEI and Norfund Provide $90 Million for Telecom Energy Projects

The financing package consists of a long-term debt facility valued at $90 million. According to the institutions, the funding refinances $55 million in bridge facilities provided in 2024 while introducing an additional $35 million in fresh capital to accelerate project deployment.

The investment will support CREI’s efforts to expand renewable energy assets that power telecommunications infrastructure across Africa. As telecom operators continue to extend connectivity into underserved regions, reliable and sustainable energy solutions are becoming increasingly critical to network performance and operational efficiency.

FEI, which is managed by Cygnum Capital, served as the lead arranger for the transaction.

Solar-Powered Telecom Infrastructure Gains Momentum

In a separate announcement, Norfund confirmed a $30 million investment specifically targeted at deploying solar-powered energy systems across approximately 4,000 telecom tower sites in Mali, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic.

The initiative aims to replace traditional diesel-dependent power generation with hybrid energy infrastructure that combines solar technology and battery storage solutions. As a result, telecom operators can reduce fuel costs, improve energy reliability, and lower carbon emissions.

The rollout aligns with broader efforts across Africa to modernize critical digital infrastructure while improving energy sustainability in regions where grid access remains limited.

CREI Expands Its Energy-as-a-Service Model

CREI plans to use the funding to scale its energy-as-a-service model for mobile network operators. Under this approach, the company develops, owns, and manages energy infrastructure while telecom operators focus on delivering connectivity services.

The company said the investment will accelerate the deployment of renewable energy systems at telecom sites and strengthen network resilience across challenging operating environments.

Furthermore, CREI is working alongside two33 Group’s ieng unit to increase renewable energy’s contribution to power generation at the targeted sites. The initiative is expected to raise the share of renewable energy in overall electricity production to nearly 50%.

Supporting Connectivity in Underserved African Markets

The investment focuses on some of Africa’s most infrastructure-constrained markets. Mali, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic are classified as Least Developed Countries and continue to face challenges related to energy access, infrastructure development, and security.

Despite these obstacles, telecommunications networks remain essential for financial inclusion, digital services, and economic participation. Consequently, investments that improve energy reliability at telecom sites can play a significant role in expanding digital access and supporting broader development goals.

Renewable Energy and Digital Infrastructure Converge

As demand for mobile connectivity, digital services, and data consumption continues to grow across Africa, operators are increasingly seeking sustainable energy alternatives to power network infrastructure.

The FEI and Norfund financing demonstrates the growing convergence between renewable energy investment and digital infrastructure development. By reducing reliance on diesel generators and expanding the use of solar-powered systems, the initiative supports both environmental sustainability and the long-term resilience of Africa’s telecommunications sector.

The project also highlights how development finance institutions are playing an increasingly important role in funding infrastructure that supports both digital transformation and energy transition objectives across the continent.

Cybastion Highlights Senegal’s Digital Growth at SENEGAL REK Forum

Habeeb Ajala
-
0
Cybastion Highlights Senegal’s Digital Growth at SENEGAL REK Forum

Cybastion Highlights Senegal’s Digital Growth at SENEGAL REK Investment Forum

Cybastion has highlighted Senegal’s growing digital economy during the SENEGAL REK business and investment forum, where industry leaders, investors, and policymakers gathered to explore opportunities in technology, innovation, and economic development.

Held on June 14–15 at Rutgers University in the United States, the forum formed part of broader business engagements surrounding World Cup-related activities in the New York City area. The event sought to strengthen commercial and cultural ties between Senegal, the United States, the African diaspora, and global investment partners.

Senegal Digital Growth Takes Center Stage

As both a sponsor and participant, Cybastion played an active role in discussions focused on Africa’s digital future. The company’s Chief Operating Officer, Antoine Puget, moderated a panel session titled “AI, Fintech, Innovation & Digital Transformation.”

The discussion examined how emerging technologies are reshaping economic development across Africa while highlighting Senegal’s progress in building a modern digital ecosystem.

Participants noted that Senegal has established a strong foundation for digital transformation through significant investments in connectivity and digital financial services. These developments are helping to position the country as an emerging technology and innovation hub in West Africa.

Strong Connectivity and Mobile Money Adoption Drive Senegal Digital Growth

Panelists pointed to several indicators that demonstrate Senegal’s digital advancement.

According to discussions at the forum, approximately 97% of the country is covered by 4G networks, providing widespread access to mobile broadband services. In addition, high mobile money adoption rates continue to support financial inclusion and digital commerce across the economy.

These factors are creating an environment that encourages innovation, expands access to financial services, and enables businesses to participate more effectively in the digital economy.

Speakers also highlighted the growing opportunities for fintech companies, artificial intelligence solutions, and digital entrepreneurs seeking to scale operations within Senegal and across the broader African market.

Cybastion Reinforces Commitment to Africa’s Digital Ecosystem

During the event, Cybastion reaffirmed its commitment to supporting digital transformation initiatives across Africa through strategic partnerships and capacity-building programs.

The company emphasized its ongoing work in cybersecurity, digital infrastructure development, and workforce training through its Digital Fast Track initiative.

According to Cybastion, strengthening digital skills and improving access to secure digital infrastructure remain critical components of Africa’s long-term technology growth and competitiveness.

Investment Forums Support Digital Transformation Goals

Cybastion noted that platforms such as SENEGAL REK play an important role in attracting international investment and fostering collaboration between governments, businesses, and technology stakeholders.

By bringing together investors and industry leaders, such forums help accelerate conversations around innovation, digital inclusion, and economic development while creating opportunities to support emerging digital markets across Africa.

As Senegal continues to strengthen its digital foundations, stakeholders believe the country is well positioned to leverage technology-driven growth and attract greater investment into key sectors including fintech, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure.

Launch Africa Returns $2.5 Million to Investors Following 11 Startup Exits

Lindsay Eke
-
0
Launch Africa Returns $2.5 Million to Investors Following 11 Startup Exits

Pan-African venture capital firm Launch Africa Ventures has made its first cash distribution to investors, returning about $2.5 million to limited partners in its Launch Africa Seed Fund I after completing 11 successful startup exits.

The payout represents roughly 7% of the fund and marks an important milestone for the investment firm, which launched the fund in 2020. It also comes at a time when many venture capital funds established during the global investment surge of 2020 have yet to deliver returns to their investors.

Founded by Zachariah George and Janade du Plessis, Launch Africa has become one of the continent’s most active early-stage investors, backing startups at the pre-seed, seed and pre-Series A stages.

Speaking about the achievement, Managing Partner Zachariah George said the true test of venture capital lies in generating actual returns rather than unrealised valuations. He added that the distribution shows African technology companies can create liquidity for investors while still retaining significant future growth potential.

Co-founder Janade du Plessis described the payout as the result of years of supporting founders, building strategic partnerships and creating opportunities for successful exits.

Since its launch, Fund I has raised more than $36 million and invested around $31 million in 133 startups across 22 African countries. The firm has focused on sectors including fintech, healthtech, agritech, logistics, education technology and enterprise software, while also helping portfolio companies access follow-on funding and international investor networks.

The latest distribution was driven by 11 exits spanning seven industries and multiple regions across Africa. According to Launch Africa, five of the exited companies operated in fintech, covering areas such as embedded lending, digital credit infrastructure, remittances, debt recovery and credit intelligence.

Additional exits came from businesses involved in payments infrastructure, agritech, logistics, business-to-business e-commerce, human resources technology and employee wellness.

The transactions were spread across several countries, with three exits each in South Africa, Nigeria and Ghana, and Senegal, alongside one exit in Tanzania and another in Egypt.

While the company did not reveal the names of the startups or financial details of the deals, it disclosed that several investments generated returns of more than twice the original capital invested, with some producing returns of up to five times the initial investment.

The distribution is seen as a positive development for Africa’s venture capital industry, where profitable exits remain less common than in more mature startup ecosystems. As global funding conditions remain challenging, successful investor payouts are increasingly viewed as evidence that the continent’s technology sector can deliver sustainable long-term value.

For Launch Africa, the milestone strengthens confidence in its investment strategy and supports its continued efforts to back high-growth startups while pursuing future fundraising opportunities across Africa.

Payaza to Launch ShopAza E-commerce Platform Across Six Markets to Help African Merchants Sell Online

Lindsay Eke
-
0
Payaza to Launch ShopAza E-commerce Platform Across Six Markets to Help African Merchants Sell Online

Payaza Africa is set to launch ShopAza, a new cloud-based e-commerce platform designed to help businesses create online stores, manage inventory and accept payments from customers across multiple markets.

The platform will officially launch on 18 June 2026 in Lagos, Nigeria, with an event featuring a keynote speech by Payaza’s Global Head of Operations, Taiwo Adeeko, a live demonstration of the product and a panel discussion on scaling e-commerce businesses across Africa.

ShopAza aims to solve a common problem faced by many small businesses, particularly in Nigeria, where merchants often rely on WhatsApp Business, Instagram or Facebook to display products and receive orders. While these platforms help businesses reach customers, they usually lack features such as shopping carts, automated checkouts and integrated inventory management, creating extra steps for buyers and sellers.

Payaza says ShopAza will provide merchants with an all-in-one solution that combines branded online storefronts, payment processing and inventory tracking without the need to use multiple separate tools.

The platform is expected to launch in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Tanzania, while also supporting merchants serving customers in North America and Europe. It will offer multi-currency capabilities, allowing businesses to sell across different regions and accept payments in various currencies.

The move comes as Africa’s social commerce market continues to grow rapidly. A significant share of online buying and selling on the continent now takes place through messaging and social media platforms rather than dedicated websites. However, businesses operating this way often face challenges such as manual order processing, payment disputes, poor customer data management and limited opportunities to build their brands.

Several fintech companies have introduced tools to address these issues. Payment providers including Paystack, Flutterwave and Interswitch have integrated online storefront features into their payment platforms, while specialised e-commerce solutions such as Bumpa, Sellevo and Selar also serve the market. Even so, merchants frequently cite limited customisation, inventory management and customer retention features as ongoing challenges.

For Payaza, entering the e-commerce space also represents an opportunity to expand beyond payment processing. As transaction services become increasingly competitive and profit margins narrow, offering digital storefronts gives payment companies deeper insights into merchant activity and creates opportunities to provide additional services such as lending, analytics and business management tools.

ShopAza forms part of Payaza’s wider ecosystem of digital products, which includes ChatPay, Payaza Give, EventPorte and Payaza Branches. By connecting these services, the company appears to be building an integrated platform that supports online selling, payments, events and customer engagement within a single ecosystem.

With growing demand from African businesses serving both local and international customers, Payaza hopes ShopAza’s multi-currency support and integrated payment infrastructure will make it easier for merchants to expand across borders and reach diaspora markets.

South-West Nigeria and NITDA Sign Five-Year Partnership to Boost Digital Skills and Innovation

Lindsay Eke
-
0
South-West Nigeria and NITDA Sign Five-Year Partnership to Boost Digital Skills and Innovation

The Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) have signed a five-year agreement to promote digital transformation, strengthen innovation and support economic growth across South-west Nigeria.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in Abuja, will run from 2025 to 2030 and cover the six South-west states of Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo.

The partnership aims to make the region a leading centre for technology and innovation by improving access to digital tools, developing skills and creating new opportunities for startups, entrepreneurs and businesses.

Under the agreement, DAWN and NITDA will work together on several initiatives, including digital literacy programmes, innovation hubs, technology development centres, startup support schemes and the implementation of policies that promote Nigeria’s digital economy.

A key priority is contributing to the national goal of equipping 100 million Nigerians with digital skills by 2030 through the Digital Literacy-for-All initiative. With its large population, universities and growing technology talent, the South-west is expected to play an important role in reaching that target.

To guide the project, the DAWN Commission has developed a Digital Literacy and Startup Act Implementation Plan that will serve as the regional framework for coordinating activities and tracking progress across the six states.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi said stronger regional partnerships are essential for balanced economic development across Nigeria. He noted that while Lagos has become a major technology hub, other South-west states also have significant potential that can be unlocked through targeted investment and collaboration.

Abdullahi revealed that NITDA plans to establish digital learning centres and operational innovation hubs in every state. Rather than applying the same strategy everywhere, the agency intends to encourage each state to build technology ecosystems around its own strengths and economic needs.

He explained that although the South-west is widely recognised for its thriving fintech sector, individual states should also develop innovation clusters linked to industries where they hold competitive advantages.

The NITDA chief also welcomed the creation of regional development commissions, describing them as long-term institutions designed to drive sustainable economic progress instead of responding only to emergencies. He added that organisations such as the DAWN Commission can help bridge the gap between national policies and local implementation.

DAWN Commission Director-General Seye Oyeleye described the agreement as an important step towards preparing the region for the future digital economy. He said the commission would ensure that NITDA’s programmes and frameworks are actively implemented and monitored across the South-west rather than simply adopted on paper.

Oyeleye stressed that the success of the partnership would be measured by real outcomes, including stronger digital infrastructure, improved access to skills training and greater support for innovation-led businesses.

For entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses, the collaboration is expected to expand opportunities for digital skills development, technology adoption, innovation support and startup growth programmes. It is also intended to strengthen the region’s digital ecosystem and create new pathways for economic development.

Under the agreement, the DAWN Commission will coordinate implementation between NITDA and the six state governments, ensuring that national digital initiatives are translated into practical projects that benefit local communities and businesses. Both organisations have agreed to establish governance structures to oversee the partnership and monitor its progress.

DOA Business Series 2026 Highlights Nigeria’s Digital Future as Bunce Wins ₦10 Million Startup Prize

Lindsay Eke
-
0
DOA Business Series 2026 Highlights Nigeria’s Digital Future as Bunce Wins ₦10 Million Startup Prize

The fifth edition of the DOA Business Series has brought together regulators, investors, business leaders and technology experts to discuss the future of Nigeria’s digital economy, with startup Bunce emerging as the winner of the 2026 Next Big Bet Pitch Competition and receiving prizes worth ₦10 million.

Organised by Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe (DOA), the event took place on 4 June 2026 at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos. This year’s theme, “Regulation, Capital and Business Competitiveness: Nigeria’s Digital Frontier,” focused on the role of policy, investment and infrastructure in driving sustainable digital growth.

Throughout the summit, speakers agreed that innovation alone will not determine Nigeria’s digital future. They stressed that reliable infrastructure, patient investment and effective regulation are equally important for building a competitive and resilient economy.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), said trust created through sound regulation encourages investment, which in turn supports the digital infrastructure needed for economic development.

He pointed to the growth of Nigeria’s data centre industry, highlighting facilities operated by Equinix, Rack Centre, NTT Nigeria and Airtel, as well as planned projects such as LG3 and Kasi Cloud. According to Dr Maida, these investments represent more than technology assets because they improve connectivity for communities and create new opportunities for businesses.

He also acknowledged challenges including infrastructure shortages, energy constraints, skills gaps and regulatory hurdles, but urged government agencies, private companies and investors to work together to overcome them and accelerate digital transformation.

The first panel discussion examined the financing and infrastructure needed to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy. Industry leaders from finance and technology sectors discussed broadband quality, investment in digital infrastructure and the importance of stable regulatory policies to attract long-term funding.

A second panel focused on artificial intelligence, data governance and digital innovation. Speakers explored how Nigeria and Africa can play a larger role in the global AI economy while protecting data privacy, encouraging responsible innovation and creating value from locally developed technologies. They argued that African businesses should aim to build and own digital solutions instead of relying mainly on imported technologies.

One of the event’s biggest highlights was the final of The Next Big Bet Pitch Competition, a platform created to support promising early-stage technology startups.

After presentations from six finalists, Bunce was selected as the 2026 winner and awarded cash and prizes worth ₦10 million, along with access to investor networks and increased market visibility. Judges praised the startup’s business model, scalability and commercial potential.

The organisers noted that Bunce follows in the footsteps of 2025 winner Trashcoin, a climate technology startup that uses artificial intelligence and blockchain technology to improve waste collection and recycling in Nigeria.

The event’s lead sponsor, i-invest, also promoted financial inclusion by rewarding six attendees with fixed-term investments through its digital investment platform.

Speaking after the event, DOA Managing Partner Adeleke Alex-Adedipe said the next stage of Nigeria’s digital economy will depend on effective execution, adding that collaboration between regulators, investors, innovators and infrastructure providers will be essential for long-term competitiveness.

DOA confirmed that details for the sixth edition of the Business Series and the next round of The Next Big Bet Pitch Competition will be announced in due course.

Airtel Africa Disburses ₦50 Million to 100 Tech Scholars in Nigeria

Habeeb Ajala
-
0
Airtel Africa Disburses ₦50 Million to 100 Tech Scholars in Nigeria

Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship Supports 100 Nigerian Tech Students

The Airtel Africa Foundation has completed the first-year funding disbursement for 100 Nigerian students under its flagship Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship Programme.

The initiative targets high-performing but financially disadvantaged students enrolled in public universities. It covers tuition, accommodation, stipends, and essential learning tools, including laptops.

Each beneficiary received an average of ₦500,000, bringing total disbursement to ₦50 million as of May 29, 2026.

Expanding Access to Digital Education in Nigeria

The fellowship supports students studying technology-related courses such as Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and Information Technology.

Beneficiaries were selected through an independent process across accredited public universities in Nigeria. These include the University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Nigeria Nsukka, University of Ilorin, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Benin, and Tai Solarin University of Education.

According to Airtel Africa Foundation, funding will continue throughout the students’ four-to-five-year academic journey.

Airtel Africa Strengthens Long-Term Tech Talent Pipeline

Chairman of Airtel Africa Foundation, Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, said the programme goes beyond financial aid.

“We are not just funding education; we are building a pipeline of skilled innovators who will contribute meaningfully to Africa’s digital economy.”

He added that transparency and full delivery of commitments remain central to the foundation’s mission.

Corporate Commitment to Digital Inclusion

Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, said the initiative reflects Airtel’s broader commitment to youth empowerment and digital inclusion.

He noted that investing in education is essential for long-term national development and economic transformation.

Programme Impact and Vision

The Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship is part of the foundation’s broader F.E.E.D agenda, which focuses on:

  • Financial Inclusion
  • Education
  • Environmental Protection
  • Digital Inclusion

Beyond financial support, the programme also provides mentorship, skills development, and exposure to industry-relevant learning experiences.

Afreximbank and Ethio Telecom Explore Strategic Funding for Digital Infrastructure Expansion

Habeeb Ajala
-
0
Afreximbank and Ethio Telecom Explore Strategic Funding for Digital Infrastructure Expansion

Afreximbank and Ethio Telecom Explore Strategic Funding for Digital Infrastructure Expansion

Ethio telecom has entered strategic discussions with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to strengthen financing cooperation aimed at accelerating digital infrastructure development across Ethiopia and supporting broader African digital transformation goals.

The engagement took place at Ethio telecom headquarters and brought together senior officials from both institutions, including Afreximbank’s newly appointed Regional Director and Head of Mission for East Africa, Humphrey Nwugo.

Alignment with “Next Horizon 2028” Strategy

A key focus of the discussions was alignment between Afreximbank’s continental financing capacity and Ethio telecom’s long-term transformation agenda, known as “Next Horizon: Digital and Beyond 2028.”

Both parties explored how structured financing could support Ethiopia’s ambition to deepen its digital economy while expanding infrastructure capacity and service delivery across the country.

Ethio Telecom Showcases Digital Transformation Progress

During the engagement, Ethio telecom presented its ongoing transformation from a traditional telecom operator into a digital-first enterprise.

The company highlighted its operational strength and expanding ecosystem of digital services, including:

  • telebirr mobile money platform
  • Zemen Gebeya digital marketplace
  • TeleStream media services
  • Cloud computing solutions
  • Z-nexus digital infrastructure services

These platforms form part of Ethio telecom’s broader strategy to position itself as a regional digital services provider.

Afreximbank Signals Interest in Financing Partnership

Afreximbank representatives reportedly expressed strong interest in supporting Ethio telecom’s expansion plans.

They noted the company’s financial stability, market leadership, and growing regional influence as key strengths that align with the bank’s mandate to support trade, infrastructure, and digital transformation across Africa.

Toward a More Connected African Digital Economy

Both institutions indicated readiness to explore tailored financing solutions that could support:

  • Expansion of digital infrastructure
  • Enterprise digital transformation
  • Innovation in financial and telecom services
  • Sustainable economic development initiatives

The discussions highlight a growing trend of collaboration between telecom operators and development finance institutions to close Africa’s digital infrastructure gap.

Viewpoint

As African economies continue to prioritize digital transformation, partnerships between institutions like Afreximbank and major telecom operators are expected to play a central role in financing infrastructure, expanding connectivity, and enabling inclusive digital growth across the continent.

123...77Page 1 of 77