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GSMA and Pleias Launch AI Tool to Improve African Language Recognition

Lindsay Eke
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GSMA and Pleias Launch AI Tool to Improve African Language Recognition

GSMA and Pleias have introduced a new artificial intelligence tool designed to better recognise African languages, in a bid to close a long-standing gap in global AI systems.

The tool, called CommonLingua, is an open-source language identification model. It has been developed under the GSMA’s “AI Language Models in Africa, by Africa, for Africa” initiative, which brings together partners working to improve how African languages are represented in technology.

Africa has more than 2,000 living languages, yet many of them are missing from the data used to train AI systems. This has led to poor performance when machines try to understand or classify African-language content. In many cases, existing systems wrongly label African languages as English or French, especially when texts mix multiple languages.

Before building tools such as chatbots or translation systems in languages like Swahili, Yoruba, or Wolof, AI models must first identify the language correctly. This is where many current systems fall short.

CommonLingua aims to solve this problem. On a new testing standard known as the CommonLID benchmark, the model achieved 83 per cent accuracy, outperforming other leading systems by more than 10 percentage points. It also uses far fewer computing resources, making it cheaper and easier to deploy.

The model supports 334 languages in total, including 61 African languages from several language families such as Bantu, Niger-Congo, Afro-Asiatic, and Nilo-Saharan. It is designed to work across different writing systems, including Latin, Arabic, Ethiopic, N’Ko, and Tifinagh.

Unlike many existing tools, CommonLingua processes text directly without relying on language-specific rules. This allows it to handle a wide range of scripts more consistently.

Pierre-Carl Langlais, co-founder and chief technology officer at Pleias, said African languages should not be treated as a niche case. He explained that accurate language identification is the first step in building better AI systems for the continent.

The model was trained using open and publicly available data sources, including Wikipedia, scientific publications, and African language datasets such as VOA Africa and WaxalNLP. All data used is released under licences that allow broad access and reuse.

Louis Powell, director of AI initiatives at GSMA, said the lack of basic tools like language identification has slowed progress in African AI. He noted that CommonLingua could help developers build stronger datasets and more inclusive AI systems.

The discussion around improving African-language AI will continue at the GSMA’s MWC26 Kigali event, where industry leaders are expected to explore ways to speed up progress in this area.

Binance Expands Crypto Payment Card in Africa to Boost Everyday Spending

Lindsay Eke
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Binance Expands Crypto Payment Card in Africa to Boost Everyday Spending

Cryptocurrency exchange Binance is expanding its Binance Card offering across Africa, aiming to make it easier for people to use digital assets for everyday payments.

The company said the move is part of its wider effort to bring practical crypto payment solutions to more users and help integrate digital currencies into daily financial activities.

The Binance Card allows users to pay for goods and services using cryptocurrencies at millions of merchants worldwide that accept Mastercard. When a user makes a purchase, the card automatically converts the selected cryptocurrency into local currency in real time. This means both the customer and the merchant experience a standard payment process, similar to using a regular bank card.

The card is designed to simplify how people use digital assets in real life. Instead of converting crypto manually before spending, users can pay directly from their crypto balances. This reduces delays and makes transactions smoother.

Binance also offers incentives to encourage usage. Cardholders can receive up to 3 per cent cashback on eligible purchases, adding extra value to everyday spending.

The card supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including USDT, USDC, FDUSD, BNB, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, Chainlink, and XRP. This gives users flexibility in choosing which assets to spend.

The expansion comes as interest in practical uses of cryptocurrency continues to grow. Many users are looking for ways to move beyond trading and use digital assets in everyday situations such as shopping, travel, and bill payments.

By linking crypto wallets to global payment networks, Binance is helping bridge the gap between digital currencies and traditional financial systems. The company said this approach is part of a broader shift towards making blockchain technology a normal part of daily financial life.

Kenya Launches Mukuru Digital Classroom to Boost Learning and Inclusion

Lindsay Eke
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Kenya Launches Mukuru Digital Classroom to Boost Learning and Inclusion

Kenya has taken a step forward in digital education with the launch of the Mukuru Digital Classroom at New Mukuru Primary School, unveiled during the Connected Africa Summit 2026.

The project aims to improve digital access and learning in underserved communities. Located within the Mukuru Affordable Housing Complex, the classroom is equipped with 20 laptops and supported by a wider ICT hub designed to provide connectivity and digital tools.

The launch was led by William Kabogo and John Tanui, with support from partners including Huawei Kenya and Safaricom.

Officials said the initiative is meant to improve digital literacy and help students gain skills needed for a modern economy. Kabogo noted that access to technology in schools is key to preparing young people for future opportunities.

Beyond the classroom, the project includes wider digital infrastructure at the Mukuru ICT Hub. This includes fibre internet, WiFi 7 access points, CCTV systems, and a smart classroom screen known as IdeaHub. Together, these tools are designed to support education, safety, and local economic activity.

Affordable internet packages are also being offered to residents, making it easier for low-income households to stay connected. This allows digital access to extend from the classroom into homes and small businesses.

The impact is expected to go beyond education. Improved security systems are helping reduce crime, while better connectivity is supporting local businesses and enabling longer hours of economic activity.

In the classroom, the smart screen allows teachers to deliver more interactive lessons using multimedia tools. Students can also gain early exposure to skills such as coding and digital communication.

Nyagitari Bosire said reliable internet is essential for modern learning and helps create equal opportunities for students. Freshina Morogo added that technology can help reduce inequality when applied in the right areas.

Ruth Ogachi described the project as a major improvement for the school, saying access to digital tools will enhance learning and better prepare students for the future.

The Mukuru Digital Classroom is part of a broader effort to combine education, infrastructure, and connectivity to support community development. It also highlights the role of partnerships between government and private companies in closing digital gaps.

As one of the key projects presented at the Connected Africa Summit, it shows how targeted investment in technology can create new opportunities and support a more inclusive digital future.

PIL Launches Ubuntu Express to Boost Asia–South Africa Trade Links

Lindsay Eke
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PIL Launches Ubuntu Express to Boost Asia–South Africa Trade Links

Pacific International Lines has introduced a new weekly shipping service, Ubuntu Express, to strengthen trade connections between Asia and South Africa.

The service will link key ports in Central and South China, Taiwan, and Singapore directly with South African ports. It is designed to improve shipping capacity and provide faster, more reliable transport across the busy Asia–Africa trade route.

The launch comes as trade demand continues to grow, driven by industrial expansion, rising consumer markets, and increased movement of goods such as agricultural produce, temperature-sensitive items, and manufactured products.

By offering a direct route, Ubuntu Express aims to reduce transit times and improve efficiency between major production hubs in Asia and South Africa’s main import and export gateways.

The service takes its name from the African concept of “Ubuntu,” which reflects shared connection and cooperation. PIL said the name highlights its goal of strengthening economic ties and integration between the regions.

The first voyage is scheduled to depart from Shanghai on May 28, 2026.

William Ho said the company has built strong experience in African markets over many years. He noted that the new service expands PIL’s existing network and helps meet rising demand for trade between Asia and South Africa.

He added that the company plans to deploy modern vessels on the route to provide reliable and competitive shipping solutions for businesses across the supply chain.

The launch of Ubuntu Express reflects wider growth in Asia–Africa trade, as companies look for faster and more efficient ways to move goods between the two regions.

Ericsson Wins Google Cloud Telecom Partner of the Year Award for Fourth Year

Lindsay Eke
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Ericsson Wins Google Cloud Telecom Partner of the Year Award for Fourth Year

Ericsson has been named the 2026 Google Cloud Partner of the Year for telecommunications, marking the fourth year in a row it has received the award.

The recognition from Google Cloud highlights Ericsson’s work in building cloud-based and AI-driven systems for telecom operators. These systems are designed to help companies manage complex networks, improve efficiency, and move closer to fully automated operations.

Ericsson said the partnership combines its telecom expertise with Google Cloud’s artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure. The aim is to help communications service providers expand services quickly while maintaining strong performance and reliability.

Razvan Teslaru said the award reflects a shared goal to change how telecom networks are built and managed in the age of AI. He noted that the collaboration is helping operators create more flexible and scalable systems.

Kevin Ichhpurani said the award recognises partners that deliver strong results and innovation for customers, adding that Ericsson has played a key role in driving progress over the past year.

One of the main achievements behind the award is the launch of Ericsson’s 5G core as-a-service platform. Built with Google Cloud, the system allows telecom operators to deploy and manage core network services using cloud infrastructure. The platform uses tools such as Google Kubernetes Engine and is managed end-to-end by Ericsson.

This approach allows operators to set up services more quickly, scale operations as needed, and reduce reliance on traditional data centres.

Ericsson has also made progress in developing autonomous network operations. By using advanced data tools from Google Cloud, the company has created systems that improve data management, monitor performance, and support automation across large networks.

The company currently manages around 800,000 telecom sites worldwide. Its shift to cloud-based systems has improved efficiency, security, and service reliability compared to older infrastructure.

Looking ahead, Ericsson plans to introduce more advanced technologies, including generative AI and stronger data management systems, to further improve network performance and automation.

The award highlights Ericsson’s growing role in shaping the future of telecommunications, as the industry moves towards more intelligent, flexible, and automated networks.

Burkina Faso Seeks Tech Investment While Emphasising Digital Sovereignty

Lindsay Eke
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Burkina Faso Seeks Tech Investment While Emphasising Digital Sovereignty

Burkina Faso has begun talks with Italian investors as it pushes forward with plans to expand its digital economy while keeping control over its technology systems and data.

The discussions were held on April 22 and organised by the country’s Ministry of Digital Transition. An Italian delegation, led by Cyrille Ganou/Badolo, met with officials including Borlli Michel Some.

The meeting forms part of Burkina Faso’s wider plan to improve digital infrastructure, connect public services, and close remaining gaps in network coverage, often referred to as “white zones”.

During the talks, the Italian delegation presented several proposals designed to meet local needs. These included the use of drones to support healthcare delivery and vaccination efforts in remote areas, as well as digital systems to manage medical records and strengthen health services.

Investors from the technology, agriculture, and energy sectors also took part, showing interest in working with the government through public-private partnerships.

Burkina Faso’s authorities made clear that any collaboration would follow strict digital sovereignty principles. They said priority would be given to partnerships that include local training, shared development, and national ownership of technology. The aim is to ensure the country builds its own capacity to manage digital infrastructure and sensitive data.

Energy supply was another key topic. The government highlighted the need for reliable power to support digital expansion and set a target to eliminate connectivity gaps by 2030. It also encouraged the use of solar energy to power telecom infrastructure in rural areas.

The talks come as Burkina Faso steps up efforts to modernise public services through digital tools, including the rollout of digital identity systems and the use of new technologies to improve efficiency.

Officials say these efforts are part of a broader strategy to build a stronger, more self-reliant digital economy while attracting the investment needed for long-term growth.

Maroc Telecom Grows Revenue by 5% in Q1 2026 as African Units Drive Expansion

Lindsay Eke
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Maroc Telecom Grows Revenue by 5% in Q1 2026 as African Units Drive Expansion

Maroc Telecom has reported a 5 percent rise in revenue for the first quarter of 2026, supported by strong performance from its African subsidiaries.

The group posted revenue of 9.3 billion Moroccan dirhams, with growth largely driven by its Moov Africa operations, where revenue increased by 8.5 percent. In Morocco, revenue rose slightly by 0.7 percent, as higher demand for mobile data and fibre broadband helped offset declines in traditional voice and ADSL services.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation reached 4.66 billion dirhams, up 6.1 percent, with a margin of 50 percent. Operating profit also increased by 4.1 percent to 2.75 billion dirhams.

However, net income fell by 3.4 percent to 1.3 billion dirhams. The company said this drop was mainly due to the impact of a social solidarity contribution. Without this factor, net income would have grown by 3.3 percent.

Maroc Telecom increased its investment spending during the period, with capital expenditure reaching 1.3 billion dirhams. Much of this was directed towards expanding broadband infrastructure in both Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa.

Cash flow from operations rose by 13.8 percent to 2.3 billion dirhams, reflecting stronger overall performance.

The company’s total customer base grew to more than 76 million users by the end of March 2026, an increase of 1.8 percent compared to the previous year. Growth in African markets helped balance a decline in subscribers in Morocco.

In its home market, the company said performance is improving, driven by demand for data services, especially fibre-to-the-home connections. Across its African operations, Maroc Telecom reported steady growth despite competition and regulatory challenges, supported by rising use of mobile data, fixed internet, and mobile money services.

The group said continued investment in high-speed mobile and broadband networks is helping improve service quality and support future growth. It also noted that careful cost management has helped maintain strong profitability.

Overall, the results show that Maroc Telecom’s expansion across Africa is playing an increasingly important role in its growth, as demand for digital services continues to rise.

NCC Orders MTN Nigeria to Compensate Customers Over Poor Network Service

Lindsay Eke
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NCC Orders MTN Nigeria to Compensate Customers Over Poor Network Service

MTN Nigeria has said it will compensate customers affected by poor network service, following a directive from the Nigerian Communications Commission.

The order comes after the regulator found that some telecom operators failed to meet required service standards between November and January. The NCC instructed companies to provide refunds or compensation to users in areas where network performance dropped below acceptable levels.

MTN Nigeria confirmed it will follow the directive and said affected customers will receive compensation based on the regulator’s guidelines. The company added that it will carry out the process in a clear and transparent manner.

The telecom provider said the move supports the NCC’s efforts to place customers at the centre of telecom services. It also acknowledged the importance of maintaining reliable connectivity in Nigeria, which has one of the largest mobile markets in Africa.

Alongside the compensation plan, MTN Nigeria announced steps to improve its network over the long term. These include increased spending on infrastructure, upgrading equipment, and expanding capacity to handle rising demand for voice and data services.

The company also said it will take measures to reduce service disruptions caused by environmental factors and damage to infrastructure. It plans to work more closely with tower partners to improve network stability and reduce downtime.

MTN Nigeria noted that challenges such as infrastructure gaps and external disruptions continue to affect service quality across the industry. However, it said it remains committed to working with regulators and other stakeholders to address these issues.

In recent years, telecom operators in Nigeria have faced growing pressure from regulators as demand for mobile data continues to rise. The NCC has increased enforcement efforts to ensure better service delivery and stronger protection for consumers.

China’s Growing Influence Reshapes Africa’s Startup Landscape

Sodiq Ajala
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China’s Growing Influence Reshapes Africa’s Startup Landscape

China is playing an increasing role in shaping Africa’s startup ecosystem, influencing how businesses are built, funded, and scaled across the continent.

According to a report by Table.Media, Chinese companies and investors are becoming more active in Africa’s technology sector. Their involvement goes beyond funding, extending to infrastructure development, technical expertise, and business models.

One of the key areas of influence is digital infrastructure. Chinese firms have helped build networks, data systems, and platforms that support the growth of startups. This foundation allows new companies to operate more efficiently and reach customers at scale.

Chinese investment is also helping startups access capital at different stages of growth. In some cases, partnerships with Chinese companies provide not just funding, but also access to supply chains, manufacturing, and global markets.

Another important impact is the transfer of business models. Many African startups are adapting ideas that have already been successful in China, such as mobile payments, e-commerce platforms, and super apps. These models are often adjusted to fit local conditions and consumer needs.

Experts say this influence is creating both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, it supports faster growth and access to resources. On the other hand, it raises questions about competition, local ownership, and long-term independence.

There are also concerns about data control and the balance of power in partnerships between African startups and foreign investors. Policymakers and industry leaders are paying closer attention to ensure that local interests are protected.

Despite these concerns, many founders see value in working with Chinese partners, especially when it comes to scaling quickly and learning from established markets.

Overall, China’s role in Africa’s startup scene is becoming more significant. As cooperation continues to grow, it is likely to shape the future direction of innovation, investment, and digital development across the continent.

3i Africa Summit to Bring Leaders Together to Drive Investment and Innovation

Sodiq Ajala
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3i Africa Summit to Bring Leaders Together to Drive Investment and Innovation

The 3i Africa Summit is set to gather policymakers, business leaders, investors, and technology experts to focus on growing Africa’s digital economy.

The summit will centre on three key areas: innovation, investment, and impact. Organisers say the goal is to create practical discussions that lead to real business opportunities and stronger collaboration across the continent.

Participants will explore how to attract more funding into African markets, support startups, and scale technology-driven businesses. The event will also look at how innovation can solve local challenges and create long-term economic value.

Government representatives are expected to discuss policies that can support digital growth, while investors will look for new opportunities in sectors such as fintech, infrastructure, and emerging technologies.

Startups attending the summit will have the chance to present their ideas, connect with potential partners, and gain exposure to global investors. This kind of access is seen as important for helping young companies grow and compete internationally.

The event also aims to highlight the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors. Organisers believe that strong partnerships are necessary to build sustainable digital ecosystems across Africa.

As interest in Africa’s technology sector continues to rise, gatherings like the 3i Africa Summit are playing a key role in shaping the future of innovation and investment on the continent.

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