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Kasi Cloud Nigeria Data Centre Opens in Lagos to Cut $850m Cloud Spending

Habeeb Ajala
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Kasi Cloud Nigeria Data Centre Opens in Lagos to Cut $850m Cloud Spending

Lagos hosts new Kasi Cloud Nigeria data centre project

Nigeria has opened a new artificial intelligence data centre in Lagos called Kasi Cloud Nigeria data centre. The facility is located in Lekki and was officially commissioned as part of efforts to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign cloud services.

The project is expected to reduce the estimated $850 million that Nigerian businesses spend each year on cloud services hosted outside the country.

Nigeria reduces reliance on foreign cloud services

For years, major industries in Nigeria—including banks, telecom companies, fintech firms, and government agencies—have relied on cloud platforms based in Europe and North America.

This setup has led to high foreign currency spending and raised concerns about where sensitive data is stored and which laws govern it.

Kasi Cloud Nigeria data centre is designed to keep more data inside the country and reduce this dependence.

 Supports  for AI growth

Founder and CEO Johnson Agbogbua said the project represents a shift in how Africa uses and controls its digital resources.

He explained that African data has long supported foreign digital economies, but local infrastructure is now changing that pattern.

He added that artificial intelligence is now central to global competition, and countries that control their own data systems will have a stronger economic position.

The facility also supports Nigeria’s National Cloud Policy 2025, which encourages local hosting of digital services.

Government and industry response

Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, described the project as a strategic national asset. He said it will improve productivity and support innovation across many sectors.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the project has already created jobs for engineers, technicians, and support staff. He also linked it to Lagos’ goal of becoming a major technology hub in Africa.

Impact across key sectors

Kasi Cloud Nigeria data centre is expected to support several industries:

  • Banking and fintech: faster processing and lower foreign exchange exposure
  • Healthcare: improved AI-based medical tools
  • Agriculture: better climate and production planning
  • Startups and education: access to high-performance computing

Africa Fast Charger Pack Market 2026 Analysis and Forecast

Habeeb Ajala
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Africa Fast Charger Pack Market 2026 Analysis and Forecast

Africa Fast Charger Pack Market 2026 Analysis and Forecast to 2035

Market Overview (2026)

The fast charger pack industry in Africa continues to expand as smartphone usage rises, electricity supply remains unstable in many regions, and mobile-first internet adoption deepens. These conditions have made portable charging solutions an essential part of daily life across both urban and rural populations.

Most products sold across the continent are imported, with China and Vietnam dominating supply chains. Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya serve as key entry points for distribution into wider African markets.

Source: IndexBox Africa Fast Charger Pack Market Report

Key Growth Drivers

Several structural factors are supporting market expansion across Africa:

  • Increasing smartphone penetration across key economies
  • Frequent and prolonged power outages in many regions
  • Rapid adoption of USB-C and fast-charging standards
  • Growing reliance on mobile devices for work, education, and finance

Together, these drivers are strengthening long-term demand for portable charging solutions.

Market Trends and Technology Shift

The industry is undergoing a clear shift toward more efficient and higher-capacity charging solutions. GaN (gallium nitride) technology is gradually replacing traditional silicon-based chargers due to its efficiency and compact design.

Other notable trends include:

  • Increased bundling of chargers by telecom operators
  • Expansion of private-label and retailer-branded accessories
  • Rising demand for multi-device charging solutions
  • Growth of premium fast-charging accessories in urban markets

Market Segmentation Overview

The market is structured across four primary product categories:

  • Portable power banks (largest segment)
  • Wall chargers (fast-growing segment)
  • Wireless charging pads
  • Multi-device charging hubs

Portable power banks remain dominant due to unreliable grid power in several African countries, making off-grid charging essential.

Industry Challenges

Despite strong growth, several challenges continue to shape the market:

  • Heavy dependence on imports from Asia
  • High circulation of counterfeit and uncertified products
  • Currency volatility affecting retail pricing stability
  • Logistics delays and high certification costs

These constraints continue to affect pricing consistency and consumer trust.

Internal Industry Insights

For deeper understanding of related markets, the following topics are relevant:

  • Power Bank Adoption Trends in Africa
  • GaN Charger Technology and Efficiency Gains
  • Smartphone Usage and Mobile Internet Growth in Africa
  • Electronics Import and Distribution Networks

These related areas help explain how the fast charger ecosystem connects with broader consumer electronics demand.

Market Forecast (2026–2035)

The market is expected to maintain steady growth over the forecast period, supported by continued digital adoption and infrastructure gaps.

Key projections include:

  • Strong growth in GaN-based charger adoption
  • Increasing share of premium charging devices
  • Wider telecom carrier involvement in device bundling
  • Rising demand from corporate and travel-related use cases

By 2035, the market is expected to shift toward higher-value, energy-efficient, and multi-port charging solutions.

Conclusion

The African fast charger pack market is transitioning from a low-cost import-driven accessory market into a more structured, technology-led ecosystem. Growth will be shaped by energy reliability challenges, rising digital dependence, and the gradual adoption of advanced charging technologies.

Nigerian Startup Hits Global Stage With Banking Innovation

Habeeb Ajala
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Nigerian Startup Hits Global Stage With Banking Innovation

A Nigerian fintech startup, Mehtic Technology, has won the 2026 RegTech Africa Startup World Cup Abuja Regional Challenge. As a result, the company has secured a spot at the global finals in Silicon Valley, United States.

The event took place during the RegTech Africa Conference and Expo (RACE 2026) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. It brought together investors, regulators, and technology experts from across Africa.

Strong Competition Across Africa’s Startup Ecosystem

The competition attracted hundreds of applications from startups across the continent. However, only 15 startups reached the final pitch stage.

These finalists represented key sectors such as fintech, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and GovTech. Therefore, the competition highlighted the growing depth of Africa’s innovation ecosystem.

Mehtic Technology’s Banking Innovation

Mehtic Technology impressed judges with its BankPlus Core Banking Infrastructure. The platform helps financial institutions improve efficiency, strengthen security, and expand financial inclusion.

In addition, the solution targets emerging markets where banks often struggle with outdated systems and rising operational risks.

CEO Reaction and Industry Impact

The Chief Executive Officer of Mehtic Technology, Ahmed Sani, described the win as a major milestone for African innovation. He stated that the recognition proves African-built financial systems can compete globally.

He also noted that funding constraints and regulatory challenges still affect deep-tech startups across Africa. However, he emphasized that the company remains focused on building scalable and secure banking infrastructure.

Next Step: Global Finals in Silicon Valley

Following the win, Mehtic Technology will represent Africa at the Startup World Cup Global Finals in Silicon Valley.

At the finals, the startup will compete with global innovators for a $1 million investment prize and potential international partnerships.

TWAS-CUI Postgraduate Fellowship Programme Opens for Young Scientists

Habeeb Ajala
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TWAS-CUI Postgraduate Fellowship Programme Opens for Young Scientists

2026 TWAS-CUI Postgraduate Fellowship Programme for Young Scientists From Developing Countries (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the 2026 TWAS-CUI Postgraduate Fellowship Programme. The fully funded programme supports young scientists from developing countries who want to pursue postdoctoral research at COMSATS University Islamabad.

The fellowship is offered in partnership with The World Academy of Sciences and provides researchers with opportunities to conduct advanced studies in natural sciences, applied sciences, and selected social science disciplines.

About the TWAS-CUI Fellowship Programme

The TWAS-CUI Postgraduate Fellowship Programme offers postdoctoral research placements at various departments and laboratories within COMSATS University Islamabad.

The programme lasts for six months. However, fellows may receive approval for a six-month extension. While the extension provides additional research time, it does not include extra financial support.

In addition, the programme aims to strengthen scientific capacity and international research collaboration among developing countries.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

  • Monthly stipend from COMSATS University Islamabad
  • Support for living expenses, accommodation, and health insurance
  • Access to research facilities and laboratories
  • Opportunity to conduct postdoctoral research in Pakistan
  • International academic and research exposure

The programme uses English as the language of instruction.

Eligible Research Fields

Natural and Applied Sciences

Applicants can apply in the following fields:

  • Computer Science
  • Computer Engineering
  • Mathematics
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Biotechnology
  • Chemistry
  • Pharmacy
  • Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Biomedical Materials (IRCBM)

Social and Economic Sciences

Eligible social science fields include:

  • Management Science
  • Development Studies

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Be citizens of a developing country other than Pakistan
  • Not currently residing in Pakistan
  • Not holding temporary or permanent residency in Pakistan or any developed country
  • Hold a PhD degree in a relevant field
  • Apply within five years of obtaining their PhD
  • Be regularly employed in a developing country
  • Hold an active research assignment in their home country

Furthermore, applicants in social science fields must possess a PhD in an eligible social science discipline.

Fellowship Duration

  • Initial Duration: 6 months
  • Possible Extension: Additional 6 months without extra funding

Application Deadline

  • Deadline: 15 June 2026

Why the TWAS-CUI Fellowship Matters

The TWAS-CUI Postgraduate Fellowship Programme helps young researchers strengthen scientific knowledge, expand international collaboration, and contribute to research development in their home countries.

Moreover, the programme supports capacity building in emerging economies by giving scientists access to advanced academic resources and research environments.

Contact Information

TWAS Fellowships Office

COMSATS University Islamabad

How to Apply

Interested applicants can learn more and submit their applications through the official TWAS fellowship portal.

For more information, visit the official TWAS-CUI Fellowship Programme webpage

Queen Elizabeth Prize for Innovation in Engineering

Habeeb Ajala
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Queen Elizabeth Prize for Innovation in Engineering

2027 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Innovation in Engineering (£500,000 Prize)

Applications are now open for the 2027 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Innovation in Engineering (QEPrize). The global award recognises engineers whose groundbreaking innovations have created lasting benefits for humanity.

The prize offers £500,000 and celebrates engineering achievements that have transformed industries, improved lives, and delivered global impact.

About the QEPrize 2027

The Queen Elizabeth Prize for Innovation in Engineering honours outstanding engineering innovations from anywhere in the world. The award highlights engineers whose work has produced major technological or societal change.

Importantly, the prize is open to individuals of any nationality. In addition, nominations can include up to 10 engineers who contributed directly to the innovation.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the QEPrize 2027, nominees must:

  • Be living individuals of any nationality
  • Be personally responsible for a groundbreaking engineering innovation
  • Demonstrate that the innovation has delivered global impact
  • Show that the innovation created substantial and lasting benefits for humanity

QEPrize Nomination Checklist

Before submitting a nomination, applicants should confirm the following:

  • The innovation has global significance
  • The responsible engineers can be identified
  • There is enough information to support the nomination
  • At least three referees can provide supporting statements

Prize Value

The winning engineer or engineering team will receive:

  • £500,000 prize award
  • Global recognition for engineering excellence
  • International visibility for their innovation and impact

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: 26 June 2026
  • Referee Submission Deadline: 26 July 2026
  • Winner Announcement: 2 February 2027

Why the Queen Elizabeth Prize Matters

The Queen Elizabeth Prize for Innovation in Engineering remains one of the world’s most prestigious engineering awards. Furthermore, it highlights how engineering solutions continue to address global challenges across healthcare, energy, communications, infrastructure, and technology.

The prize also promotes innovation that improves quality of life and drives long-term economic and social progress.

How to Apply

Interested applicants and nominators can learn more and submit nominations through the official QEPrize website.

For more information, visit the official QE Prize for Innovation in Engineering website

KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator Competition 2026

Habeeb Ajala
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KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator Competition 2026

KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator Competition 2026 Opens for Applications

The KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator Competition 2026 is now accepting applications from ambitious tech founders and entrepreneurs worldwide.

The competition aims to spotlight innovative startups building transformative technology solutions capable of reshaping industries, solving real-world challenges, and scaling globally.

The application deadline is 19 July 2026.

What Is The KPMG Global Tech Innovator Competition?

The KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator Competition brings together some of the world’s most promising technology startups and innovators.

According to KPMG, the programme offers founders a platform to showcase breakthrough innovations, gain international exposure, and connect with investors, mentors, and industry leaders.

Importantly, the competition supports both pure technology companies and tech-enabled businesses with strong growth potential.

Who Can Apply?

The competition targets:

  • Tech innovators and startup founders
  • Tech-enabled businesses with scalable solutions
  • Companies seeking global visibility and growth opportunities

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the competition, applicants must meet the following conditions:

  • Be a registered company in the participating country or region
  • Have operated for seven years or less in their current form
  • Generate annual revenue between US$1 million and US$15 million, or have raised at least US$500,000 in equity funding
  • Operate as a tech-driven or technology-enabled business
  • Not be majority-owned by a large corporation
  • Conduct all pitches in English
  • Be available for regional and global pitch events if selected

Additionally, finalists must be available to participate in the global final scheduled for November 2026.

Benefits For Selected Startups

Global Visibility And Exposure

Participants gain access to national and international audiences, including investors, industry experts, potential partners, and customers.

Industry Validation

Recognition as a finalist or winner can strengthen credibility with investors, clients, and technology stakeholders.

Networking Opportunities

The competition creates opportunities to connect with fellow founders, global innovators, and experienced business professionals.

Mentorship And Guidance

Selected startups receive support from KPMG advisers and mentors with expertise in scaling technology businesses.

Media Coverage

KPMG stated that finalists may receive regional and international media exposure to increase visibility and market reach.

Learning And Growth

Participants also receive feedback from judges and peers while improving their pitching and presentation skills.

In addition, finalists will receive standard-class travel and hotel accommodation for the final event.

Required Application Information

Applicants must provide:

  • Company registration details
  • Founder and management team information
  • A short company and business model description
  • Funding history and financial projections
  • Company logo and branding materials

Why The Competition Matters

Global startup competitions increasingly play a major role in helping emerging companies secure partnerships, investment opportunities, and market credibility.

The KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator Competition provides a high-profile platform for startups seeking international growth. Furthermore, it allows founders to showcase innovative solutions capable of driving economic and technological transformation across industries.

Application Deadline

  • Application Deadline: 19 July 2026

For complete application guidelines and participation details, visit the official KPMG Global Tech Innovator Competition Website.

Call for Code Global Challenge 2026 for AI Tech Solutions

Habeeb Ajala
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Call for Code Global Challenge 2026 for AI Tech Solutions

2026 Call for Code Global Challenge Opens Applications for AI Tech Solutions

The 2026 Call for Code Global Challenge is now accepting applications from developers, innovators, researchers, and technology teams building AI-powered solutions for social impact.

The global initiative focuses on creating trusted artificial intelligence solutions that address human trafficking and related human rights challenges. Importantly, the programme operates in partnership with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UN Human Rights).

The application deadline is 9 July 2026.

What Is The Call for Code Global Challenge?

The Call for Code Global Challenge is part of one of the world’s largest developer mobilisation programmes for social good. This year’s edition focuses on using artificial intelligence to combat human trafficking through practical, scalable, and ethical technology solutions.

According to organisers, the initiative operates across more than 190 countries and aligns with global policy frameworks guiding responsible AI development.

Challenge Tracks

Participants can submit projects under four major tracks:

1. Anticipate & Disrupt

Teams can develop AI systems that predict, detect, or map trafficking risks before harm occurs.

2. Assist & Amplify

This track focuses on survivor-centred tools that support protection, recovery, and long-term resilience.

3. Accountability & Justice

Applicants can build solutions that strengthen legal investigations, evidence gathering, and prosecution systems.

4. Art Against Trafficking

Participants may also use AI-assisted storytelling, media, or visualisation tools to raise awareness and inspire action.

Benefits For Winners

The programme offers several benefits for top-performing teams.

Top Winners And Incubation Support

The three strongest projects across all tracks will receive top winner recognition. Additionally, the top five teams will advance into a six-month AI Hub Incubator programme.

The incubator includes:

  • Dedicated mentorship
  • Structured learning curriculum
  • Milestone-based support
  • Pilot deployment opportunities with NGO partners
  • Published case studies of selected solutions

Global Recognition

Finalists and winners will also receive:

  • Official certificates of recognition
  • International visibility across partner platforms
  • Public finalist recognition
  • Access to a global AI and human rights network

How To Participate

The application process follows five major steps:

  1. Register individually on the hackathon platform
  2. Review programme resources and join the community channels
  3. Build an AI solution within the four-week hackathon period
  4. Submit the completed project before the deadline
  5. Participate in post-hackathon incubation if selected

Importantly, organisers stated that participants can use any programming language, framework, or AI platform.

Key Dates

  • Registration Opens: 1 May 2026
  • Hackathon Launch: 11 June 2026
  • Submission Deadline: 9 July 2026 (11:59 PM CT)
  • Technical Review: 9–18 July 2026
  • Panel Judging: 18–27 July 2026
  • Winners Notification: Around 27 July 2026
  • Awards Ceremony: 30 July 2026

Why The Challenge Matters

As artificial intelligence adoption accelerates globally, organisations increasingly seek responsible and ethical AI applications capable of addressing real-world social challenges.

The Call for Code Global Challenge reflects growing global efforts to combine technology innovation with human rights advocacy. Furthermore, it allows developers to build practical AI systems capable of creating measurable social impact.

For additional details and application guidelines, visit the official Call for Code Global Challenge Website.

Moroccan Entrepreneur Hicham Benyebdri Helps Hotels Win Back Direct Bookings Through Userguest

Lindsay Eke
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Moroccan Entrepreneur Hicham Benyebdri Helps Hotels Win Back Direct Bookings Through Userguest

Hicham Benyebdri is using digital marketing technology to help hotels reduce their dependence on third-party booking platforms and regain control over online sales.

The Moroccan entrepreneur co-founded Userguest in 2018 alongside Ahmed Chami and Assil Bernossi.

The startup focuses on helping hotels increase direct bookings through their own websites instead of relying heavily on online travel agencies and booking platforms.

Userguest developed a platform designed to solve two major problems faced by hotels: attracting travellers who are ready to book and converting website visitors into paying customers.

One part of the company’s solution involves managing digital advertising campaigns for hotels. Userguest creates, launches, and optimises campaigns across several online platforms to help hotels reach travellers more likely to make direct reservations through official hotel websites.

The second part of the platform focuses on improving the experience of visitors once they arrive on hotel websites.

Using personalised digital messaging, Userguest can display targeted offers and booking prompts based on visitor behaviour and preferences. For example, the platform may encourage travellers to complete a booking immediately or highlight deals that match their interests.

The aim is to help hotels increase direct revenue while lowering commission costs paid to external booking services.

Before launching Userguest, Hicham Benyebdri had already built experience in hospitality marketing and travel technology.

In 2015, he co-founded Swell Hotel Marketing, a digital marketing agency focused entirely on the hotel industry. He served as the company’s chief executive officer until 2019.

Benyebdri studied commerce and administration at Université du Québec à Montréal, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in 2007.

He later earned a master’s degree in international marketing from London South Bank University in 2010.

His early career included working as a paid media analyst at Greenlight, a company later acquired by Brave Bison.

Between 2012 and 2015, he also worked as partner marketing manager at Expedia, where he gained experience in online travel and digital booking systems.

As competition in the hospitality industry grows, technology platforms like Userguest are becoming increasingly important for hotels looking to strengthen direct customer relationships and improve profit margins in the digital travel market.

Velmie and Flot Partner to Tackle Banking Infrastructure and Compliance Challenges in Africa

Lindsay Eke
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Velmie and Flot Partner to Tackle Banking Infrastructure and Compliance Challenges in Africa

Velmie has partnered with Flot to build a next-generation digital banking platform aimed at solving payment, compliance, and infrastructure challenges facing fintech operators across Africa.

The partnership comes as many African fintech companies continue to struggle with fragmented payment systems, difficult mobile money integrations, regulatory compliance demands, and the challenge of scaling products beyond the early startup stage.

Rather than focusing only on launching new financial products, fintech firms are increasingly seeking partners that can handle full implementation across banking infrastructure, payment systems, compliance processes, and digital banking operations.

Under the partnership, Flot will use Velmie’s integration and delivery capabilities to speed up the rollout of its neobank platform for consumers and businesses across African markets.

The platform is being designed specifically around African financial realities, including mobile-first banking, agent banking networks, hybrid payment systems, and local financial infrastructure requirements.

According to the companies, the platform will support a wide range of financial services for both individuals and businesses.

These include digital wallets with customer onboarding and identity verification, virtual and physical card issuing, mobile money transfers, merchant payment collection, utility bill payments, airtime purchases, bank transfers, and agent banking services such as cash deposits and withdrawals.

Slava Ivashkin, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Velmie, said launching regulated fintech services in African markets requires more than simply building software products.

“Launching regulated fintech products in African markets requires more than software,” Ivashkin said. “It requires execution capability across integrations, compliance, payment rails, and operational delivery.”

He added that the partnership with Flot is focused on building a scalable banking platform capable of operating reliably across complex and multi-market African environments.

Velmie operates as a services-led fintech infrastructure provider, offering support across solution design, integration management, implementation, launch operations, and ongoing technical support.

The company’s ecosystem includes integrations with card networks, payment processors, banking systems, mobile money providers, and KYC and AML compliance vendors.

This allows fintech companies to reduce the time needed to launch products while maintaining regulatory readiness and operational control.

The partnership also reflects a wider shift happening across African fintech markets, where operators are increasingly adopting modular and API-driven infrastructure instead of building entire banking systems from scratch.

As competition grows across the continent’s financial technology sector, infrastructure readiness and strong execution capabilities are becoming major factors separating successful fintech platforms from those that struggle to scale.

Aumet Raises $12 Million to Expand AI-Powered Healthcare Procurement Across MENA

Lindsay Eke
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Aumet Raises $12 Million to Expand AI-Powered Healthcare Procurement Across MENA

Aumet has secured $12 million in Series A funding to expand its AI-powered healthcare procurement platform across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

The investment was announced by AAIC Investment, which backs Aumet through its Africa Innovation & Healthcare Fund II.

The new funding will help Aumet strengthen its technology platform and grow its operations as demand rises for more efficient healthcare supply chains across the region.

Founded as a health-tech company, Aumet develops digital tools that simplify how pharmacies, hospitals, and medical suppliers buy and manage healthcare products. Its platform uses artificial intelligence to support procurement, inventory management, and healthcare data analysis.

The company said its system helps reduce delays, improve transparency, and make healthcare supply chains more efficient.

Aumet’s platform is already being widely used across the region. According to the company, more than 12,000 pharmacies currently use the system, while over 1,000 pharmaceutical suppliers are connected to the platform.

The business operates in Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, supporting more than five million transactions every year. Aumet also reported cumulative gross merchandise volume exceeding $1 billion.

The company is now moving beyond its original marketplace model and positioning itself as a full healthcare procurement operating system powered by artificial intelligence.

To support different healthcare users, Aumet has introduced several specialised products.

Its “Pulse” platform is designed for individual pharmacies and provides cloud-based inventory management and procurement support.

“Chain” is aimed at pharmacy groups and includes centralised purchasing tools and AI-powered analytics.

The company’s “Enterprise” solution focuses on hospitals and government healthcare agencies, offering large-scale procurement management and advanced data systems.

Aumet’s Enterprise platform has already been introduced within Jordan’s public healthcare system. The rollout started at Al Bashir Hospital, one of the country’s largest public hospitals.

The system has since expanded across 32 hospitals, more than 500 medical centres, and over 18 medical warehouses.

The deployment highlights the company’s efforts to build large-scale digital healthcare infrastructure capable of supporting national healthcare systems.

As healthcare providers across MENA continue investing in digital transformation, companies like Aumet are attracting growing investor interest for technologies that improve efficiency, transparency, and access within healthcare supply chains.

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