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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.

Ethio Telecom Strengthens Ties with Italy to Boost Ethiopia’s Digital Growth

Lindsay Eke
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Ethio Telecom Strengthens Ties with Italy to Boost Ethiopia’s Digital Growth

Ethio telecom is expanding its partnership with Italian institutions as part of efforts to speed up digital transformation and support long-term economic growth in Ethiopia.

The move follows a high-level meeting between the company’s chief executive Frehiwot Tamru and Sem Fabrizi. Their discussions focused on strengthening cooperation with Italian organisations to support Ethio telecom’s long-term development plan.

At the centre of these efforts is the company’s “Next Horizon: Digital & Beyond 2028” strategy. This roadmap aims to build a strong digital ecosystem in Ethiopia while promoting inclusive growth across the country.

One key area of collaboration is energy efficiency. Ethio telecom reviewed its ongoing work with Ascot Energy, which focuses on improving power use and introducing greener infrastructure across telecom operations. These improvements are expected to lower costs, increase reliability, and reduce environmental impact.

The meeting also explored ways to speed up joint projects, including the use of cleaner energy sources and better systems to manage network operations.

In addition, both sides discussed ongoing engagement with Cassa Depositi e Prestiti. Talks centred on securing financial support for major projects under the Next Horizon plan, particularly investments in digital infrastructure and sustainable energy.

Fabrizi praised Ethio telecom for its role in supporting Ethiopia’s development and reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to deeper cooperation. He said stronger partnerships between Ethiopian and Italian organisations would help drive innovation, improve infrastructure, and expand access to digital services.

Ethio telecom said its growing international partnerships reflect a wider effort to build reliable and environmentally friendly infrastructure. The company aims to position itself as a leading force in Ethiopia’s transition to a more connected and digitally driven economy.

BAS Finance Disburses Over ₦20 Billion to Nigerian SMEs in One Year

Lindsay Eke
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BAS Finance Disburses Over ₦20 Billion to Nigerian SMEs in One Year

BAS Finance has announced that it has disbursed more than ₦20 billion in loans to small and medium-sized businesses across Nigeria within a year, marking a major step in efforts to improve access to finance.

The company, part of the BAS Group, said the milestone highlights its growing role in supporting entrepreneurs who often struggle to secure funding from traditional banks.

According to the firm, the funds have reached thousands of micro, small, and medium enterprises across the country, helping them expand operations, manage cash flow, and invest in growth. The pace of lending also places BAS Finance among the fastest-growing fintech lenders in Nigeria.

Adnan Kayode said the achievement reflects the company’s belief that small businesses are key to Nigeria’s economic development. He explained that the firm focuses on providing quick access to affordable working capital, especially for businesses involved in trade and other key sectors.

To support its lending activities, BAS Finance has also raised ₦2 billion through its first private note issuance. This is part of a larger ₦10 billion funding programme designed to attract institutional investors and strengthen the company’s financial base.

The company said this approach allows it to diversify its funding sources and build a more stable system for long-term growth, while maintaining careful risk management.

The ₦20 billion in loans has been distributed across several important sectors. These include retail and fast-moving consumer goods, agriculture, real estate, financial services, manufacturing, logistics, and cross-border trade. Many of these sectors play a central role in Nigeria’s economy and job creation.

BAS Finance said its digital platform has been key to reaching more businesses. By using data analysis and mobile technology, the company has reduced the time it takes to process loans from several weeks to just a few days.

Victor Kareem said the company combines speed with careful lending decisions to ensure sustainable growth. He noted that the platform helps the company reach underserved businesses while maintaining strong credit standards.

Chidera Muoka added that the goal is to build a financial system where more Nigerians can access funding, regardless of their background or connections.

The announcement comes at a time when many small businesses in Nigeria face economic challenges and limited access to credit. BAS Finance said it aims to continue expanding its services to support entrepreneurs and drive wider financial inclusion.

African Mining Week to Spotlight AI’s Role in $8.5 Trillion Mining Opportunity

Lindsay Eke
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African Mining Week to Spotlight AI’s Role in $8.5 Trillion Mining Opportunity

The upcoming African Mining Week will focus on how artificial intelligence and advanced technologies are reshaping Africa’s mining industry, as countries look to unlock an estimated $8.5 trillion in mineral resources.

The event, set to take place from October 14 to 16 in Cape Town, will bring together investors, technology firms, regulators, and project developers. A key session will explore how AI can improve mining operations, reduce risks, and support long-term growth.

Across the continent, governments are already using AI to speed up exploration and improve accuracy. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, AI tools are helping to shorten the time needed to discover mineral resources. Louis Watum Kabamba has said this could cut exploration timelines to less than three years.

The DRC is also working with Xcalibur Smart Mapping to map critical minerals and reduce exploration risks. In addition, it has partnered with KoBold Metals to apply AI at the Mingomba Lithium Mine, improving lithium production.

Elsewhere, Burundi is using AI in partnership with KoBold Metals and Lifezone Metals to digitise geological data and assess the Musongati Nickel Project, which holds an estimated 140 million tons of resources.

In Zambia, KoBold Metals is applying AI at the Mingomba Copper Project to locate high-quality deposits and support plans to increase national copper output to three million tons by 2031.

Ghana is also adopting AI tools. The Ghana Gold Board and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority are using data-driven models to assess mineral potential in areas such as Funsi, Atuna, and Bensere East, aiming to expand gold production.

Meanwhile, Botswana is using AI to diversify its mining sector beyond diamonds. Botswana Minerals has identified eight new copper deposits using AI-powered exploration methods.

As demand for critical minerals is expected to triple by 2030, Africa’s large share of global resources is drawing increased attention. The African Mining Week event will examine how AI can help reduce exploration risks, improve efficiency, and support more sustainable mining practices.

The conference will also provide a platform for industry leaders to share best practices and explore investment opportunities, as Africa works to turn its natural resources into long-term economic growth.

Crunchfish and Mercury Partner to Build More Resilient Payment Systems in Africa and Middle East

Lindsay Eke
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Crunchfish and Mercury Partner to Build More Resilient Payment Systems in Africa and Middle East

Crunchfish has entered a new partnership with Mercury to improve the reliability of digital payments across the Middle East and Africa.

The agreement comes as financial institutions face growing pressure to ensure payment systems continue working even during outages or disruptions. Recent global events, including issues affecting cloud services, have exposed how dependent many payment platforms are on constant internet connectivity.

The partnership, supported by Crunchfish’s Danish partner SaaS Expand, will integrate Crunchfish’s payment technology into Mercury’s infrastructure. This will allow secure transactions across different payment systems, including card networks, instant payments, stablecoin platforms, and emerging digital currencies issued by governments.

Mercury already operates across several markets in the region, placing it in a strong position to roll out the new system across both closed and open payment networks.

A key feature of the collaboration is Crunchfish’s “governed” payment model. Unlike traditional systems that rely heavily on constant connectivity, this approach allows payments to go through even when networks are down. At the same time, it keeps control within regulated financial systems.

The model works by using pre-reserved funds held within regulated institutions. This means transactions can be completed without moving money outside the system or creating credit risk. Once systems are restored, settlements are finalised without disruption.

This approach differs from older offline payment methods, which often shift risk to users’ devices or create temporary credit exposure. Instead, it maintains central control while allowing payments to continue under difficult conditions.

The first phase of the partnership will focus on testing and integrating these capabilities into Mercury’s systems. It will also demonstrate how the technology can support different payment methods while meeting regulatory requirements.

Muzaffer Hamid said resilience has become a key priority for payment providers. He noted that systems can no longer depend on continuous access to networks and cloud infrastructure, and that the partnership introduces a new way to ensure payments continue securely.

Joachim Samuelsson added that the region is seeing a clear shift towards more reliable payment systems. He said the technology allows payments to continue even when systems fail, without increasing risk or losing regulatory control.

The collaboration highlights a wider trend in the financial sector, where resilience is becoming as important as speed and convenience. As digital payments grow across Africa and the Middle East, systems that can operate under all conditions are likely to play a key role in the future of financial services.

AmiViz Partners QuantumGate to Deliver Quantum-Safe Cybersecurity Across Middle East and Africa

Lindsay Eke
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AmiViz Partners QuantumGate to Deliver Quantum-Safe Cybersecurity Across Middle East and Africa

AmiViz has been appointed as the regional distributor for QuantumGate, bringing a suite of quantum-resistant security solutions to organisations across the Middle East and Africa.

The partnership comes as businesses and critical infrastructure providers face growing cyber threats. Alongside more frequent and complex attacks, there is also increasing concern about the future impact of quantum computing on current encryption systems.

Experts warn that widely used encryption methods could become vulnerable as quantum technology develops. There is also a risk that attackers are already collecting encrypted data today, with the aim of decoding it later when more powerful systems become available.

QuantumGate’s product range is designed to address these risks. Its QSphere platform offers tools for secure communication and data protection, including quantum-resistant virtual private networks. The company also provides Salina, a password-free identity management system built to resist phishing attacks.

To help organisations prepare for this shift, QuantumGate has developed a Crypto Discovery Tool. This tool allows companies to identify where encryption is used in their systems, assess risks, and plan for upgrades. Another solution, Secure VMI, protects sensitive data on both personal and company mobile devices.

AmiViz will use its regional network and partner ecosystem to expand access to these technologies. The company also plans to support customers through its Virtual Customer Experience Centre, helping organisations strengthen their cybersecurity systems.

Ilyas Mohammed said the partnership gives businesses practical tools to respond to one of the biggest changes facing cybersecurity. He noted that the shift to quantum-safe encryption is no longer a future concern but an immediate need.

Janne Hirvimies added that rising cyber activity and regional tensions have made strong security systems essential. He said the company’s solutions are designed to protect organisations from current threats while preparing them for future risks linked to quantum computing.

The agreement reflects a shared effort by both companies to strengthen cyber defence across the region, as digital systems become more important and threats continue to grow.

Proparco Invests $17.25 Million in Alterra Fund to Support African Growth Businesses

Lindsay Eke
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Proparco Invests $17.25 Million in Alterra Fund to Support African Growth Businesses

Proparco has committed $17.25 million to the Alterra Africa Accelerator Fund, strengthening efforts to support growing businesses across the continent.

The fund, managed by Alterra Capital Partners, focuses on investing in profitable companies that are ready to expand. It mainly targets businesses in East and Southern Africa that provide essential goods and services to local markets.

Alterra works closely with company leaders to help them grow and improve operations. Its current portfolio includes firms such as Chill Beverages, Java House, ARP Africa Travel Group, and Cobra Group. These businesses operate across countries including South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda.

Together, the companies supported by the fund employ more than 4,000 people. Nearly half of these employees are women, and around 60 percent are under the age of 35.

Proparco said the investment aligns with its goal of supporting private sector growth in developing markets. The organisation focuses on three main areas: building strong economies, protecting the environment, and reducing inequality.

Tibor Asboth said the decision to invest was based on confidence in Alterra’s team, strategy, and understanding of African markets. He noted that the fund is well placed to support businesses that create jobs and improve access to important services.

Genevieve Sangudi welcomed the investment, describing it as a strong endorsement of the firm’s approach. She said Alterra is focused on backing companies that can grow with the right funding and support.

With the fund now fully closed, Alterra plans to continue investing in businesses that can scale and contribute to economic growth. Its strategy includes working closely with management teams, creating jobs, supporting skills development, and promoting women’s participation in the workforce.

The fund also places importance on environmental responsibility, including efforts to address climate change through sustainable business practices.

Valeo Opens AI Development Centre in Cairo to Boost Egypt’s Tech Position

Lindsay Eke
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Valeo Opens AI Development Centre in Cairo to Boost Egypt’s Tech Position

Valeo Group has launched a new artificial intelligence development centre in Cairo, strengthening Egypt’s role as a growing hub for advanced technology and software development.

The centre was officially opened by Raafat Hendy, alongside Valeo’s chief executive Christophe Périllat, Ahmed Elzaher, and Tamer Aly. The event also marked 20 years of Valeo’s presence in Egypt.

Valeo Egypt has grown into the company’s largest software development centre worldwide, producing nearly half of its global software output and delivering about four million research and development hours each year.

The new AI centre is part of Valeo’s strategy to expand its use of artificial intelligence across its operations. It will focus on improving productivity and developing tools for next-generation mobility software, including systems used in modern vehicles.

The Cairo hub will start with 35 engineers and is expected to grow to more than 100 specialists. It will also connect to Valeo’s global network of over 200 AI experts and a dedicated research centre.

Speaking at the launch, Hendy said the project reflects Egypt’s growing strength in technology and innovation. He noted that the new centre highlights the country’s ability to attract investment and create high-quality jobs in the digital sector.

Périllat said the move is part of Valeo’s wider plan to integrate AI into all its engineering work, especially software development. He added that Egypt has become a key location for the company’s global innovation efforts.

Information Technology Industry Development Agency, led by Elzaher, has played a role in supporting such investments. Elzaher said the expansion shows the depth of Egypt’s talent pool and its ability to support complex, long-term technology projects.

Since opening in 2005, Valeo Egypt has grown into the largest software research and development centre in North Africa. It now employs around 3,000 engineers and contributes about 50 percent of the company’s global software production.

The company has also introduced AI tools across its engineering teams. As of early 2026, about 35 percent of its validated software code is produced using artificial intelligence.

Engineers in Egypt are working on key technologies for modern vehicles, including automated parking systems, digital dashboards, electric vehicle power systems, and smart lighting. These innovations rely on advanced tools such as machine learning, data science, and cloud computing.

Valeo Egypt has also built a strong record in research, with engineers developing new solutions and securing patents in advanced technology fields.

Globally, Valeo employs about 100,000 people and operates in 29 countries, with 149 production sites and 59 research centres. In 2025, the company reported revenues of around 20.9 billion euros.

The launch of the AI centre marks another step in Egypt’s efforts to become a leading destination for global technology investment, as demand for artificial intelligence and digital services continues to grow.

Kredete Gains Recognition at Visa Accelerator for Stablecoin Card Innovation

Lindsay Eke
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Kredete Gains Recognition at Visa Accelerator for Stablecoin Card Innovation

Kredete has been recognised at the Cohort 5 Demo Day of the Visa Africa Fintech Accelerator, held during GITEX Africa in Marrakech, for its work in developing stablecoin-based payment solutions.

The recognition comes as Visa announced it has now supported more than 100 startups across Africa through the programme. These companies together are valued at around $1.4 billion.

Kredete, which took part in Cohort 3 of the accelerator, has used the programme’s mentorship and network to develop what it describes as Africa’s first stablecoin-backed credit card, created in partnership with Visa. The card allows users in over 50 African countries to spend U.S. dollar-backed digital currency at more than 150 million merchants worldwide.

Founded in 2023 by Adeola Adedewe, the company focuses on helping Africans, including those living abroad, access modern financial tools. Its platform combines cross-border payments, digital currency, and a system that helps users build credit profiles.

The stablecoin card is central to this offering. Built using USDC, a digital currency tied to the U.S. dollar, it operates across multiple blockchain networks to provide faster and lower-cost transactions. The aim is to reduce common challenges such as high foreign exchange fees, limited payment acceptance, and currency instability.

Since launching in selected African markets, Kredete says it has seen strong user growth. The company is now planning to expand into the Gulf region, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Oman.

Adedewe said the company’s goal is to create a fairer financial system for Africans globally. She explained that people who support families across borders should be able to build credit from those financial activities.

At the Demo Day event, Visa highlighted Kredete as an example of how the accelerator programme helps startups move from ideas to real products with market impact. The company’s progress reflects a broader trend of fintech firms in Africa using new technologies to improve access to global financial services.

Sonatel Reports Strong Growth as Fibre Users Pass 640,000 Across West Africa

Lindsay Eke
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Sonatel Reports Strong Growth as Fibre Users Pass 640,000 Across West Africa

Sonatel Group has reported solid growth in its 2025 financial results, driven by rising demand for mobile data and fibre internet services across its markets.

According to the company’s annual report, total revenue reached 1,923.1 billion CFA francs, an increase of 8.3 percent compared to the previous year. Net profit also grew by 5.2 percent to 413.6 billion CFA francs, reflecting steady expansion across its operations.

A major factor behind this growth was the increase in data usage. The number of mobile data customers rose by 8 percent to 22.5 million users. Fixed broadband services also saw strong growth, rising by 26.1 percent to reach 1.16 million subscribers.

Fibre-to-the-home, or FTTH, continued to be a key driver. The number of fibre internet users has now passed 640,000, showing strong demand for faster and more reliable internet connections in the region.

Sonatel also expanded its role in digital finance through its mobile money service, Orange Money. The platform now has 13 million active users, a 2.8 percent increase. It remains an important tool for improving access to financial services and supporting digital payments.

The company has also introduced the “Max It” super-app, which combines financial and digital services into one platform. This move is part of a broader effort to build a more connected digital ecosystem for users.

Beyond business growth, Sonatel highlighted its social and environmental efforts. In 2025, more than 27,000 young people received digital skills training through its Orange Digital Centers. The company also supported over 2,000 women through programmes aimed at improving economic inclusion.

On the environmental side, Sonatel continued to invest in renewable energy. It now operates more than 1,800 solar-powered sites in Guinea and over 1,000 in Senegal, helping to reduce its carbon footprint.

Looking ahead, the company plans to strengthen its network by preparing for the rollout of 5G services across its markets. It is also set to play a key role in supporting connectivity for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, where it aims to showcase digital innovation in Africa.

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