That era is ending as search is no longer king. Discovery has taken over and today, it belongs to creators.

African media platforms are uniquely well positioned to take advantage of this evolution as the continent has the highest population growth rate in the world, boasting a yearly change of approximately 2.29% as against Europe which is experiencing a negative growth rate of around -0.09% and relatively declining global wealth share.

With the continent’s improved digital media technology penetration, there is direct access to digital natives, the ability to work at low costs with digital technology, and the opportunity to earn appreciably while telling authentic stories.

Across Accra, Lagos, Nairobi and Johannesburg, a new class of storytellers is rising, but not from newsrooms. They are not waiting for editorial meetings or morning budgets. They are rising from bedrooms, street corners, and community centres. They are posting, streaming, reacting, explaining, and, most importantly, connecting.

Demand for news is evolving

This shift is not just technological. It is cultural and the data makes it very clear. According to the March 2026  report  by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism on Understanding Young News Audiences at a Time of Rapid Change, young people between age 18 and 24 are no longer online-first, they are social-first. A decade ago, their primary gateway to news was websites and publisher apps. Today, it is social media. At Global South World, we’ve seen this firsthand where our social audiences are hundreds of times bigger than our website audiences.

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have overtaken Facebook as the dominant spaces for news consumption among young audiences. In the report, 51% of young people say they pay more attention to individual news creators, compared to 39% who prioritise traditional news brands, as authority has shifted from institutions to individuals.

And it goes deeper as only 64% of young people consume news daily, compared to 87% of those over 55. Just 35% say they are highly interested in news, far below older audiences. Many are not rejecting information, they are rejecting how it is presented. They find it depressing, irrelevant, or difficult to understand. So they scroll past it or they wait for someone they trust to explain it better. The experience of Global South World reflects this evolution. Following our launch in 2023, our initial model was based around traditional web publishing. Without a rising tide of Google traffic, this strategy simply wasn’t resonating with our audiences, so we pivoted to a short video approach focused on human faces.

The creator economy’s real power is not just producing content, but translating complexity into clarity – often requiring a tight focus on a single angle. A 60-second video breaking down one aspect from a national budget will outperform a 1,200-word article tackling the entire announcement. Not because it is necessarily better journalism, but because it is better communication. The content business is about creation + distribution. Once upon a time, journalists had a monopoly on the matter, but no more.

Format preferences are undoubtedly shifting. Young audiences increasingly prefer to watch or listen rather than read. They are consuming more podcasts, more short-form video, more explainers. News is becoming audiovisual, conversational, and personalised.

At the same time, they are more comfortable with emerging technologies. Around 15% of young people now use AI tools weekly to access or understand news, compared to just 3% of older audiences. They are not intimidated by complexity but are simply choosing tools that simplify it.

AI tools are powerful in production and delivery of news but pose risks for publishers in terms of trust and connection. At  Global South World , different AI models support journalists with research and sometimes drafting. But technology cannot replace humans. On  Qonversations , one of Impactum Group’s digital news platforms, we have extensively experimented with a wider use of AI presenters, graphics and imagery and found that our audiences are cautious about engaging without a visible human presence.

Rising to the challenge

All this is not to say, that technologies and accompanying behavioural changes are not creating challenges for society. When young people encounter news through algorithms and influencers, depth is often lost and context is diluted. Important stories compete with entertainment, and too often, entertainment wins. This is where the responsibility and opportunity for African media becomes urgent.

At Global South World, this reality has informed the development of the Global South Voices to bridge this emerging information gap created by evolving media consumption habits. In our network, we have news content creators like Ebenezer Wormadey from Ghana who runs  Devlin’s Report  on TikTok and Instagram. His brand is distinctive with his instantly recognisable shirt and fast-paced delivery. He takes the audience through stories, sometimes circling around a point to ensure they follow, and using language they can relate to.

We also have creators like  Hikma Temam  and  Bassant Hesham , from Ethiopia and Egypt, respectively, who appeal to female audiences who don’t see many people like themselves on traditional television. They explain topics without a studio or extravagant graphics but through conversational and relatable messaging.

The goal is simple, but critical. Ensure that as formats change and platforms evolve, the voices, realities, and complexities of the Global South are not lost in translation, because the danger is not just that young people are consuming less news. It is that they may be consuming incomplete news or worse, disconnected narratives that do not reflect their lived realities.

The initiative recognises that the future of information in Africa will not be secured by choosing between traditional media and creators. It will be built by connecting them. Traditional media in Africa was built on authority and the power to decide what matters. Creators operate on relatability and the ability to make it matter to people.

The future demands both.

African newsrooms must accept the hard truth that distribution is no longer guaranteed. Owning a website is not the same as owning attention. If audiences are not coming to you, you must go to them and in formats they understand and spaces they already occupy.

A mindset for a modern era

Beyond distribution, there must be a deeper shift in mindset. African media managers must rethink talent. Not just hiring reporters, but storytellers. Not just editors, but explainers. Not just anchors, but personalities who can build trust over time because trust itself is evolving.

While young people’s trust in news is only about nine percentage points lower than older audiences, their expectations are different. Many still value impartiality, but 32% believe neutrality does not always make sense on issues like climate change or racism. They want clarity, not just balance. They want relevance and want to see themselves in the story.

They want to hear it from someone who feels like them. This is why the rise of creators is not a threat to journalism. It is a correction. A reminder that storytelling has always been about connection, and connection cannot be automated, optimised, or outsourced to algorithms. It must be earned.

The smartest media organisations will not seek to compete with creators. They will collaborate with them. They will build hybrid ecosystems where credibility meets creativity, where depth meets accessibility, and where stories travel across formats without losing their meaning.

This is an opportunity for Africa to leapfrog and build media systems that are more inclusive, more participatory, and more reflective of the people they serve.

This article was originally published on iAfrica.com and solely represents the views of Ismail Akwei, the founding editor of Global South World.

The data , visualised in a global comparison chart, shows that 77% of respondents in Nigeria say they are excited about AI, the highest share among surveyed countries. Ghana follows at 73%, while Turkey records 72%, underlining strong optimism across parts of Africa and the Global South.

Several developing and middle-income countries dominate the upper tier of the rankings. Brazil reports 67% enthusiasm, while Egypt stands at 62%. Vietnam, Israel and the United Arab Emirates each record 61%, indicating widespread anticipation of AI’s potential across diverse regions.

Kenya, Mexico and Colombia follow closely, each with 58%, while Saudi Arabia rounds out the list at 57%.

According to DataReportal, higher levels of optimism in these markets are often linked to expectations that AI could accelerate economic development, improve access to services and create new job opportunities, particularly in fast-growing digital sectors.

“People in rapidly digitising economies tend to see AI as an enabler rather than a threat,” DataReportal notes in its analysis of global attitudes towards emerging technologies.

While the chart focuses on the most enthusiastic countries, DataReportal’s broader research suggests that attitudes in advanced economies tend to be more cautious. Concerns around job displacement, data privacy and ethical use are more pronounced in countries with mature labour markets and stricter regulatory environments.

Globally, internet penetration now exceeds 66%, with more than 5.3 billion people online, according to DataReportal’s latest figures. This expanding connectivity is accelerating exposure to AI tools, from generative chatbots to automation platforms, shaping public perception in real time.

Demographics and digital adoption key factors

Younger populations appear to play a central role in driving AI enthusiasm. Countries such as Nigeria and Ghana, where median ages are significantly lower than in Europe or North America , tend to exhibit greater openness to technological change.

At the same time, the rapid spread of smartphones, particularly across Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia, is lowering barriers to entry for AI-powered applications, from financial services to education and healthcare.

DataReportal notes that mobile-first internet usage dominates in many of these regions, making AI tools more accessible and relevant to everyday life.

This brings our live coverage of Uganda’s 2026 general election to an end. The vote is widely expected to extend President Yoweri Museveni’s four-decade rule. Follow Global South World for ongoing updates as the process continues, with final results expected from the Electoral Commission within the next 48 hours.

18:00 GMT: Yoweri Museveni takes early lead

15:00 GMT: Vote counting commences in several parts of the country

14:30 GMT: No "serious violations" detected during voting in Kampala, Russian election observer reports

14:00 GMT: Polls officially close at most polling stations across the country

1:30 GMT: Opposition leader Bobi Wine allege incidents of ballot stuffing

1:00 GMT: Uganda's National Tally Center in Lubowa is ready for first round of result later this evening

12:30 GMT: Polling hours have been extended from the earlier communicated 4:00pm to 5:00pm

12:00 GMT: Health Minister Dr Jane Ruth Aceng casts her vote

11:00 GMT: Voting underway at Kampala Road

10: 30 GMT: Presidential candidate Yvonne Mpambara raises concerns over technical failures on election day

10:30 GMT: Common Man’s Party Presidential flagbearer Mubarak Munyagwa votes

10:00 GMT: Opposition leader Bobi Wine votes in the company of his wife

9:30 GMT: President Yoweri Museveni speaks after voting

President Museveni has addressed the nation after casting his ballot on matters relating to election rigging, delays in opening polls, malfunctioning biometric machines, amongst others.

9:00 GMT: Incumbent President Yoweri Museveni votes

9:00 GMT: President Yoweri Museveni arrives at Rwakitura to vote

8:30 GMT: The Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) presidential candidate, Major General Gregory Mugisha Muntu (Rtd) casts ballot

8:00 GMT: Electoral Commission orders voting process to commence immediately despite machine malfunctions

Uganda’s Electoral Commission chief, Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama has ordered the immediate commencement of polls across all polling stations. This comes after reported delays and biometric machine malfunction in several polling stations across the country.

7:30 GMT: Polls delay and biometric machines malfunction

Polls was expected to open by 7am however reports from several parts of the capital, Kampala, and the city of Jinja said voting had yet to begin by 9am (0600 GMT), with reports that ballot papers had not been delivered and biometric machines used to check voters' identities were not working. "Nobody is here to tell us what is happening," said Abuza Monica Christine, a 56-year-old businesswoman in central Jinja, told AFP.

7:00 GMT: Voting begins across Uganda

Voting officially commenced at 7:00 am in various polling station across the country

Campaign Season

In the months leading up to the campaign, the Ugandan government stepped up actions against the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP), with arrests and charges against its members. In October 2025, ten NUP members were arrested in northern Uganda, and in November at least 95 more were charged with minor offences. After campaigning began, the pressure continued, including an incident on 6 December 2025 in Gulu where Bobi Wine and several supporters and staff were attacked and beaten by security forces while on the trail. President Yoweri Museveni, in a New Year’s Eve address on 31 December 2025, urged security forces to use more tear gas to disperse crowds, describing the opposition as “criminal” and arguing that tear gas was preferable to live ammunition.

Key Issues

Electoral System

Uganda’s president is elected under a two-round system, meaning a candidate must win 50% plus one vote to take the presidency in the first round. The law requires presidential candidates to be Ugandan citizens by birth, eligible to be an MP, and of sound mind, and it bars anyone with a formal connection to the Electoral Commission from running; term limits were removed in 2005, and elections are overseen by the Electoral Commission of Uganda.

Parliament has 529 seats: 353 are elected in single-member constituencies using first-past-the-post, and 146 district-based seats are reserved for women (one per district) and filled the same way. The remaining 30 seats are filled indirectly through special electoral colleges, 10 for the army and 5 each for youths, elders, unions and people with disabilities with requirements to ensure women are represented in each group.

The Candidates

A total of seven candidates were nominated during the two-day exercise held on 23rd and 24th September 2025 at the Electoral Commission grounds in Lweza-Lubowa, Wakiso District. Among those nominated is President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, standing on the ticket of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). Now in power for nearly four decades, Museveni first took office in 1986 after leading a guerrilla war that promised to restore democracy following years of instability. The opposition field is led by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, the candidate of the National Unity Platform (NUP). A former pop star turned politician, Bobi Wine, is widely viewed as Museveni’s strongest challenger. Read more

Background and Electoral History

Uganda’s first national election was the 1962 Uganda National Assembly vote, which produced a post-independence government after an alliance between the Uganda People ’s Congress (UPC) and Kabaka Yekka (KY) won a parliamentary majority and made Milton Obote executive prime minister. Elections then stalled for years amid dictatorship and political turmoil, including the eras of Idi Amin, Yusuf Lule and Godfrey Binaisa, until a disputed presidential election in December 1980 returned Obote to power amid allegations of fraud. One of the contenders, Yoweri Museveni, rejected the outcome and launched an armed rebellion, and his National Resistance Army eventually took power in 1986 after the short-lived government of Gen Tito Okello.

Under Museveni, Uganda introduced a “no-party” system that barred parties from fielding candidates directly, and the country held nonparty elections in 1996, its first popular presidential election since 1962, when Museveni won while formally running without a party, despite the existence of parties such as the Democratic Party, UPC and later the Forum for Democratic Change. Museveni also won again in 2001, in a vote challenged by his main rival Kizza Besigye but ultimately upheld by the Supreme Court. In 2005, Ugandans voted in a referendum to restore multiparty politics, setting up the 2006 general election as the first multiparty contest in 25 years, which Museveni and the NRM won; he later defeated opposition challenger Bobi Wine in the 2021 presidential election.

Voter Statistics

According to the Ugandan Electoral Commission in its latest voter statistics, the country currently has 146 districts, 312 counties, 353 constituencies, 2,191 sub-counties/towns/municipal divisions, 10,717 parishes and 71,214 villages, while the scale of election administration has expanded since the last general cycle. The number of polling stations has risen from 34,684 in 2021 to 50,739 as of 13 November 2025, and the registered voter roll has grown from 18,103,603 (2021) to 21,681,491 (as of 13 November 2025).

“All those in Uganda, who are able to bypass the criminal regime’s internet blockade – big up yourselves!” he wrote. “Pass around the message. Let everyone know how to do it. They cut off the internet in order to hide rigging and atrocities. Record everything and share with the world .”

The call came less than 24 hours after the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) ordered mobile network operators and internet service providers to suspend public internet access and selected mobile services starting at 6:00 pm on January 13, 2026. The suspension is expected to remain in force until further notice.

The UCC said the move was aimed at maintaining public order during the election period.

Just days earlier, government officials had dismissed claims by the opposition that an internet shutdown was planned.

Just days earlier, authorities had denied claims by the main opposition that the government intended to cut internet access to prevent mobilisation and the sharing of election results. Those concerns intensified last week after satellite internet provider Starlink restricted its services in Uganda following an order from the regulator.

According to the UCC, the shutdown follows a “strong recommendation” from the Inter-Agency Security Committee and is aimed at preventing the spread of misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud and incitement to violence during the polls. The commission said the measures are necessary to protect public confidence and national security .

Under the directive, services to be suspended include public internet access, the sale and registration of new SIM cards, and outbound data roaming services to countries within the One Network Area. The shutdown applies across mobile broadband, fibre optic connections, leased lines, fixed wireless access, microwave radio links and satellite internet services.

The UCC said all non-essential public internet traffic, including social media platforms, web browsing, video streaming, personal email services and messaging applications, must be blocked during the suspension period.

A limited number of essential services will be exempted under a strictly controlled exclusion list, allowing continued access for critical national functions such as network monitoring and infrastructure management. Access to these systems will be restricted to authorised personnel and secured through whitelisted mechanisms such as dedicated IP ranges or private networks. Operators have been instructed to suspend access immediately if any abuse is detected.

MrBeast, whose content reaches more than one billion followers across platforms, said the project is designed to turn online influence into tangible impact. Rather than focusing on follower numbers alone, participants were chosen for their commitment to social good and community-driven ideas.

The country has become increasingly visible on the global stage, attracting international attention for projects that combine philanthropy, storytelling and youth engagement. Local creators, including Ghanaian YouTuber Wode Maya, have been invited to participate.

The village project will be fully documented and shared across MrBeast’s platforms.

In one widely shared moment from Botswana, the streamer appeared shocked to learn that he could not simply buy raw diamonds locally, despite the country being the world’s largest diamond producer. Viewers pointed out that Botswana’s diamond industry is tightly regulated through long-term international contracts, leaving a limited domestic market.

Beyond viral clips, social media users argue that iShowSpeed’s tour has unintentionally become educational. Others noted that many young Americans, especially those who have never travelled outside the United States , were exposed for the first time to African cities with skyscrapers, paved roads, internet access and modern amenities. Some described the reactions as revealing how deeply Western narratives have portrayed Africa as uniformly poor or rural.

One emotional video showed a viewer breaking down while saying the streams had changed his entire view of Africa, admitting he had grown up believing the continent consisted only of “huts and stick houses” with no future. Instead, he said, the livestreams showed beauty, culture, resources and advanced urban life.

iShowSpeed has said his motivation for doing long “IRL marathons” is to bring the world to people who cannot travel. “I’m for the people that can’t travel,” he said in one clip. “I try to give y’all the best experience. Whatever experience it is, I’m your test dummy.”

The streamer is reportedly set to visit 20 African countries, including Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Egypt, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Liberia, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa , Zambia, and Zimbabwe. He has already shared footage from Angola, Eswatini, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, among others.

In the wake of the U.S. operation to seize Maduro, parts of Venezuela lost power. Starlink coverage will allow Venezuelans to contact loved ones, even if future conflict causes more outages. It will also allow citizens to bypass government blackouts, as it has in places like Iran , where Starlink use is criminalised.

Starlink isn't currently available in Venezuela — the company has previously listed connectivity in Venezuela as 'coming soon'—and blanket coverage is useless if users don't have the hardware needed.

As Starlink moves to rapidly roll out its coverage across the country, some worry that Starlink's adoption in Venezuela will give the US and Musk too much power, allowing them to spy on Venezuelan citizens or cut their internet off on a whim.

On Friday, January 2, a day before the U.S. operation in Venezuela, Chinese diplomats told the UN at a Security Council event that the rapid expansion of Musk's Starlink network poses "pronounced safety and security" concerns globally.

“With the rapid expansion of commercial space activities, the unchecked proliferation of commercial satellite constellations by a certain country, in the absence of effective regulation, has given rise to pronounced safety and security challenges,” a Beijing representative said, calling on the UN to better enforce regulations. 

The UN Security Council is meeting today (January 6th) to discuss the legality of the U.S. operation to seize President Maduro. It is currently unclear whether Starlink's offer of free broadband will also be a topic of discussion.

Of these, 566 links were targeted for allegedly disrupting public order.

The data, compiled by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, reveals that only a small fraction of the notices related to clear criminal activity. Just 14 notices across a 20-month period alleged offences such as betting scams, impersonation linked to financial fraud , or child sexual abuse material.

Instead, much of the enforcement focused on speech-related concerns, including content aimed at political leaders and public figures. At least 124 URLs were flagged for targeting politicians, while others were accused of spreading misinformation or defamation.

The scale of intervention spiked during sensitive political moments. During the Lok Sabha elections in April and May 2024 alone, authorities flagged 761 URLs, including nearly 200 links accused of violating election laws. One single notice, issued on May 13, 2024, sought the removal of 115 URLs over an allegedly doctored video said to influence voters.

X has repeatedly objected to several of these orders, arguing that posts cited by the government did not violate the laws invoked. In some cases, the platform asked officials to reconsider takedown demands involving opposition party accounts and political commentary.

At the centre of the dispute is the legal route used by the government. The MHA has relied on Section 79(3)(b), which deals with intermediary liability, rather than Section 69A of the IT Act — the provision traditionally used for blocking online content on grounds such as national security or public order.

X argues that using Section 79(3)(b) widens the state’s power to remove content without the procedural safeguards built into Section 69A, including clearer thresholds and a more formal review process. The company has challenged the legality of the government’s Sahyog portal, which issues such notices, in the Karnataka High Court.

The government, for its part, says X has questioned both the authority of officials issuing notices and the classification of content as unlawful. In its court filings, the MHA maintains that the takedowns are necessary to prevent unrest, misinformation and threats to public order.

The pattern of notices also shows how broadly “public order” has been interpreted, covering everything from allegedly manipulated images of senior leaders to critical posts about government institutions. Critics say this blurs the line between preventing harm and suppressing dissent.

As the courts weigh X’s challenge, the figures underline a larger question facing India’s digital governance: where regulation ends and censorship begins — and who gets to draw that line in the world ’s largest democracy.

In its petition, filed on December 3, LHRC says the shutdown violated provisions of the treaty that require member states to uphold human rights, good governance, transparency and accountability. The organisation is asking the court to declare the blackout unlawful and to bar the government from imposing future internet shutdowns without legal justification or a court order.

“The blackout had far-reaching economic and social repercussions,” said LHRC lawyer Peter Majanjara. “It paralysed online banking, disrupted digital health services and denied citizens access to critical information during a crucial election period,” he added.

Majanjara said the government’s explanation that the shutdown was meant to prevent violence failed to meet democratic standards of legality, necessity and proportionality.

Internet and mobile data services were cut nationwide without prior notice on election day, leaving Tanzania digitally isolated for seven days as voters elected councillors, MPs and a president in both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa has defended the move, saying it was aimed at stopping online criminals who were allegedly spreading inflammatory content and inciting violence. He said such activities had led to deaths, injuries and property destruction.

The Attorney General is expected to respond to the case within 45 days of receiving the court documents.

The World Visualised Brand Report , powered by Impactum Insights research, is based on a survey of 1,094 Indonesian internet users to benchmark the industry's performance. The findings paint a picture of a maturing market where technical reliability is now a baseline expectation, and brand differentiation is driven by innovation, value, and care.

Request the report for free using the form below

The report examines consumer perspectives on coverage, performance, customer services , innovation and price across brands such as Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison and Smartfren.

Industry outlook

The report concludes that network speed and coverage remain the primary drivers of influence,. However, with customer service scores tightly clustered among the top three providers, the industry has reached a "perception plateau," where differentiation will increasingly depend on personalized experiences rather than technical claims alone.

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Under the proposed rules, social media companies that allow under-16s to create accounts could face penalties of up to RM10 million (about USD $2.1 million).

Fahmi said the government is studying how other countries are implementing similar restrictions, including Australia, which this month became the first nation to ban social media access for those under 16. Platforms there face fines of up to AU$49.5 million (about USD $33 million) if they fail to enforce the ban.

Malaysia’s decision follows rising concern about online safety for children . Fahmi cited a recent incident involving a primary school pupil who requested indecent images from a teacher via WhatsApp as an example of why tighter controls are needed.

Malawi’s Parliament has approved Bill No. 2 of 2025, a constitutional amendment that embeds the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) into the supreme law without any changes. Out of 224 MPs, 199 voted in favour while 25 were absent, with no dissenting votes recorded. The amendment, introduced by Mzimba South MP Emmanuel Chambulanyina Jere, defines the purpose and management of the CDF and places it under the authority of Members of Parliament “as prescribed by an Act of Parliament.” A motion by Dedza Central MP Joshua Malango fast-tracked the vote, ending debate and limiting scrutiny. Critics warn that granting MPs constitutional control over the fund risks deepening patronage politics and weakening accountability. Supporters argue it ensures predictable development financing for constituencies. Parliament is now expected to draft accompanying legislation governing fund management and reporting.

Malawi becomes early adopter of injectable HIV prevention drug

Malawi has authorised the use of lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable HIV prevention drug, becoming the fourth African nation to approve the medicine. The Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority approved a 46-day expedited review. National AIDS Commission Executive Director Dr Beatrice Matanje described the approval as a major milestone in reducing new infections, noting that biannual injections ease the burden of adherence. PMRA Director General Mphatso Kawaye said the decision reflects efforts to accelerate access to life-saving innovations, supported by collaboration with the European Medicines Agency and the World Health Organisation. South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe have already approved the drug, with first consignments expected by year-end. Malawi continues to face high HIV prevalence, with an estimated 950,000 people living with the disease.

Preparations intensify for 2025 Africa Netball Cup

The Netball Association of Malawi has confirmed that preparations are well underway to host the 2025 Africa Netball Cup from December 8–14 at the Griffin Saenda Sports Complex in Lilongwe. Nine national teams—Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Namibia and Eswatini—will compete for the continental title. The Local Organising Committee is finalising upgrades to courts, training facilities and logistics ahead of the event. LOC chairperson Limbani Matola said hosting the tournament is an opportunity to showcase Malawi’s sporting talent and inspire young players. The Association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting both women’s and men’s netball as Africa Netball continues its campaign for the sport’s inclusion in future Olympic Games.

Rural connectivity expands through Starlink-powered project

Fast Networks Malawi has delivered a major rural connectivity project using Starlink technology to provide affordable internet access in underserved areas. Over six months, the organisation and its partners—including the Internet Society, Unconnected.org, World Mobile, 48.org, the Ministry of Education, Xulendo and Inethi South Africa—developed a mesh network extending connectivity far beyond each Starlink terminal’s range. The project connected 67 schools and established 20 rural WiFi hotspots, enabling clinics, trading centres and additional schools to access online resources. Low-cost community vouchers help subsidise Starlink subscriptions for schools, supporting long-term sustainability. Co-founder Barros Atupele Mweso said communities previously without internet access are now digitally engaged, though challenges remain, including device shortages, low digital literacy and maintenance costs.

New $100 million cement plant inaugurated 

Malawi has commissioned a $100 million Portland Cement Manufacturing Plant in Balaka, a township in Southern Malawi, hailed as a catalyst for economic transformation. Finance Minister Joseph Mwanamveka presided over the commissioning, calling it a testament to Malawi’s commitment to strengthening its manufacturing base and boosting foreign exchange reserves. The project aligns with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which prioritises manufacturing-led growth and job creation. Mwanamveka said the plant represents resilience in overcoming long-standing challenges in the manufacturing sector and reaffirmed government support for both local and foreign investors contributing to national development.

In January 2025, a Texas man was arrested after using Roblox to issue violent extremist threats.

Authorities in Singapore and Germany have documented similar incidents. A 16-year-old in Singapore used Roblox to share pro-Islamic State propaganda, while two 12-year-olds in Germany encountered Nazi-themed content in World War II games before being lured into extremist Discord servers.

Experts say extremists use gaming environments to break down barriers: gameplay builds trust, shared interests make conversations feel harmless, and the shift to private channels happens quickly. 

For many youths, these encounters become their first exposure to radical ideas.

The problem isn’t limited to jihadist or far-right groups. Networks like the nihilistic group “764” and even Proud Boys-linked accounts have been spotted on gaming platforms, targeting very young users who may not recognise extremist symbolism.

Regulators and child-safety advocates are urging platforms to strengthen oversight. Roblox has introduced new age-tier controls and AI moderation systems, but researchers say the sheer volume of content — billions of chat messages a day — makes full monitoring nearly impossible.

Still, specialists caution against blaming the games alone. They note that young people drawn into extremist circles often feel isolated offline, making them more susceptible to belonging and validation online.

The issue caused unusual traffic spikes and affected multiple websites and apps worldwide. Downtime was reported by users of X, Google services, and the video game League of Legends. Even the Global South World site, run by Gjirafa Tech, was not spared from the outage. 

Cloudflare, which handles roughly one-fifth of global internet traffic, saw its stock fall 1.5% following the disruption.

“Earlier today, we failed our customers and the broader internet when a problem in Cloudflare network impacted large amounts of traffic that rely on us,” said Cloudflare’s chief technology officer Dane Knecht.

Experts said the outage exposed the risks of centralised internet infrastructure . 

Cloudflare supports about a third of the world ’s top websites, including AI platforms like OpenAI and Anthropic, as well as online retailers. 

Professor Alan Woodward of the University of Surrey said relying on a few major providers creates efficiency, but failures can have wide-ranging consequences.

Analysts also point to growing strain on digital networks. Jacob Bourne from Emarketer said rising demand from AI applications, streaming, and general web traffic is pushing systems beyond their limits, making outages more frequent and harder to resolve.

The company promised a detailed explanation of the incident and steps to prevent future problems, emphasising the critical role of infrastructure in keeping global internet services running smoothly.

While the bill aims to strengthen national resilience against hacking , fraud, and online abuse, there are concerns that some provisions could blur the line between regulation and surveillance and limit online freedoms.

Prior to the drafting of the amendment bill, the Ministry of Communication, together with the Cyber Security Authority, invited public input .

Here’s what you need to know about the Bill:

The CSA’s proposed investigative, arrest and prosecutorial power may perhaps be one of the biggest and concerning changes in the Amendment Bill. This means that the Cyber Security Authority, which was originally set up as a regulator, can now investigate and prosecute cybercrime on the authority of the Attorney-General. It can even exercise police powers, including arrest, search, and seizure. Under the existing law , the Authority could only enforce compliance through administrative means and recommend prosecutions. However, now, the Authority may now prosecute cybercrime cases directly, apply for confiscation orders, and freeze assets under section 59B, which states that: “(1) The Authority shall, upon the occurrence of a cybersecurity incident or a cybercrime, conduct criminal investigations and prosecute the same. (2) The Authority shall have the jurisdiction to prosecute all offences under the Electronic Transactions Act, 2008 (Act 772)." 

Under the new Section 59B, the CSA can seize and confiscate property, money, or assets believed to be connected to cybercrime. Even if a criminal case fails, the Authority may still pursue civil recovery, meaning your assets could be taken without a conviction if linked to an alleged offence. Section 59B (3) states, “Where a person is convicted of a cybercrime under this Act, the Authority may apply to the Court for an order to confiscate moneys, proceeds, benefits, properties, and assets purchased by a person with proceeds derived from or in the commission of the cybercrime.” The act goes on in subsection (5) that: “In relation to subsection (6), if criminal prosecution fails, civil asset recovery should still proceed, and confiscation orders should have the effect of a civil judgment appealable from the High Court to the Court of Appeal.” Under the existing law, the CSA has no power to confiscate proceeds of crime; this power is reserved for the Attorney General’s office and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

New provisions under sections 59C - 59I give the CSA powers to compel individuals, service providers, or companies to hand over data, including computer records and personal information. Investigators can apply ex parte, without notifying the affected person, to obtain search and preservation orders over data stored on computers or servers. Section 59C(1) states; “The Authority may, for the purposes of carrying out an investigation in respect of a contravention of the Act, Regulations, or any other relevant enactment by the owner of a critical information infrastructure, a licensee, a service provider or any other person, by notice in writing, require a person to: attend at a time and place specified in the notice; and furnish the Authority with information related to a matter relevant to the investigation.”  The goal is to make it easier to investigate cybercrime, but this raises issues about the possibility of opening the door to mass data access and unwarranted surveillance.

For the first time, Ghana’s cyber law explicitly covers Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, cloud technology, and quantum computing. The CSA will now set security standards and certify emerging technologies before they are deployed, from banking algorithms to smart home systems, under sections 4A(a) – (c), 58A. In addition, the authority shall accredit non-profit cybersecurity institutions under section 58B. This could help ensure safer technology use, but it also places innovation under state control. In this regard, the CSA becomes Ghana’s tech certifier, which invariably expands its remit from cybersecurity to technology governance.

The Bill introduces new online offences under Sections 67A and 67B, targeting cyberbullying, stalking, and online harassment, especially of children. However, it also makes it a crime to “deliberately spread false or misleading information” online. The problem? The law doesn’t define what counts as “false or misleading.” This vagueness could criminalise legitimate reporting, satire, or political commentary. Penalties range from fines of up to five thousand penalty units to 25 thousand penalty units to three to five years’ imprisonment and not more than ten years, depending on the offence.

The amendments create new funding streams for the CSA, including: 12% of Ghana’s Communication Service Tax, 9% of corporate tax, and 50% of fines collected under the Act. Under the existing law, the authority relies on parliamentary allocations, donor support, and service fees for funding.

Failure to register critical infrastructure, report cyber incidents, or comply with CSA directives could now attract hefty fines of up to 50,000 penalty units. The proposed amendment raises penalties up to 25,000 penalty units, 50,000 penalty units, and 5 - 10 years imprisonment. The monetary value of one penalty unit in Ghana is GHC 12, which means the monetary value of 50,000 penalty units is GHC 600,000 (approximately US$55,000).

Generally, for Ghanaian citizens who use the internet for diverse purposes, including social media, e-commerce and banking, the Amendment Bill, once passed, would regulate online behaviour, digital data, social media content (particularly that considered fake or misleading), devices, and workplace systems. With the intent to sanitise and make Ghana’s cyberspace safer.

Tanzania is seeking to diversify its tourism markets by attracting more visitors from the Asia-Pacific region after welcoming a record 2.14 million tourists in 2024, up from 1.81 million the previous year. Visitor spending reached US$3.9 billion, a 15.7% year-on-year increase, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Traditionally reliant on European and North American visitors, Tanzania is now focusing on Australia, China, Singapore, and Malaysia following successful promotional campaigns, including the 2024 China-Tanzania Culture and Tourism Year.  Arusha-based tour operators say Asia-Pacific travellers are showing growing interest in safaris, Mount Kilimanjaro treks, and beach holidays. “Asia-Pacific is a relatively new market for us, but we are keen to engage,” said Zephania Abduel, of Tanzania Roadside Expeditions.

Amnesty warns of growing repression ahead of general elections

Amnesty International has accused Tanzanian authorities of intensifying repression against opposition leaders, journalists, and civil society ahead of the October 29 general elections. The organisation’s report cites “arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances”, with 83 individuals reportedly missing as of August 2024, according to the Tanganyika Law Society.  Regional director Tigere Chagutah said President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government had “dashed hopes for reform” and instead deepened authoritarian practices. Political dissidents told Human Rights Watch they faced constant harassment, while Amnesty called on the government to end its “unacceptable campaign of repression against dissent.”

Tanzania achieves new digital milestone with 56.3 million internet users

Tanzania has recorded 56.3 million active internet subscriptions as of September 2025, according to the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA). This marks rapid growth from 52.9 million three months earlier, pushing internet penetration to 87% of the population.  The surge is attributed to expanded 4G and 5G mobile broadband coverage, affordable data packages, and smartphone adoption. Mobile internet accounts for over 99% of usage, underscoring its role in Tanzania’s digital transformation. The TCRA report links this progress to the government’s Digital Transformation Strategy (2020–2030), which promotes e-government, online learning, and financial inclusion. Tanzania now ranks among East Africa’s leading digital economies.

Catholic church calls for justice amid disappearances and election anxiety

During Holy Mass on Nyerere Day on October 14, Archbishop Jude Thaddaeus Ruwa’ichi urged the government to address the ongoing abductions and disappearances plaguing the country. Speaking ahead of the general elections, the Archbishop emphasised that “every life is sacred” and called on authorities to uphold citizens’ rights and ensure accountability. He also appealed to Tanzanians to vote conscientiously and resist coercion or bribery, reminding them that “the government’s authority is derived from the people and accountable to them.” The Justice and Peace Commission of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference will monitor the upcoming elections.

Tanzania’s largest bank eyes regional expansion 

Tanzania’s largest bank, CRDB, is expanding its regional footprint after establishing subsidiaries in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Chair Neema Munisi Mori told Semafor that the bank is now eyeing markets in Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia, as well as partnerships in the Middle East and China.  With assets valued at $6.5 billion at the end of 2024, CRDB has opened a representative office in Dubai and created a China desk to attract cross-border investment. The bank aims to position itself as a regional financial powerhouse by leveraging partnerships similar to its collaboration with Norway’s sovereign fund in DR Congo.

The order followed a decree from Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada banning the internet as part of new “morality measures.” The group, which seized power in Kabul in 2021, has promised alternative channels of access but has yet to explain what these might be.

Reports from the ground suggest that services began cutting out before Monday evening.

"Afghanistan is now in the midst of a total internet blackout as Taliban authorities move to implement morality measures, with multiple networks disconnected through the morning in a stepwise manner; telephone services are currently also impacted,” Netblocks said. 

Why it matters: 

Bigger picture: 

According to Newzoo’s Global Mobile Market Report , the United States continues to lead the world in smartphone penetration, with 81.6% of its population owning a smartphone. Japan follows closely at 78.6%, with Russia at 73.6%, while China and Indonesia hover around 68%.

Brazil, Mexico, and much of Latin America are also seeing strong adoption, whereas India (46.5%), Nigeria (38.1%), and Pakistan (31%) still represent massive growth markets.

This growth in smartphone penetration is not just about device adoption but about how people access the internet.

Semrush reports that over 63% of global web traffic now comes from mobile devices, marking a decisive shift away from desktop browsing.

The company’s data also shows that most Google searches are initiated on mobile, a critical insight for marketers and businesses as they adapt their digital strategies.

Industry analysts see this expansion as part of a larger story about global connectivity. IDC’s Q2 2025 Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker shows that smartphone shipments grew 1% year-over-year, reaching 295.2 million units despite sluggish demand in China and persistent economic headwinds.

The growth is being driven by affordable Android devices and increasing internet penetration in emerging markets.

However, in markets like India and Africa, cost remains a major barrier, meaning millions still rely on basic phones or shared devices. This creates unique opportunities for budget-friendly smartphone makers and mobile-first platforms.

Meanwhile, in mature markets like the U.S. and Japan, growth is driven by upgrades and demand for premium devices with AI-powered features, a trend that aligns with 2025’s push toward generative AI in everyday apps.

The criminals siphoned over Sh810.68 million ($6.1m) through mobile banking alone, deploying tactics like SIM swaps, phishing, malware, and identity cloning. The figure represents a 344 percent jump from the previous year, accounting for more than half of all money stolen.

The CBK noted that many of the scams happened late at night, often on weekends, when unsuspecting revellers were tricked into revealing passwords. Millennials, those born between 1981 and 1996, were identified as the most vulnerable group.

Overall fraud cases more than doubled, rising from 173 in 2023 to 353 in 2024. Losses from card fraud, computer hacks, online banking scams, and identity theft all surged, pushing total exposed funds , the amount criminals targeted before banks clawed some back, to nearly Sh2 billion ($15m).

The Bank further noted that card fraud cost customers Sh263.3 million, up nearly 17 times from the previous year, while computer hacking drained Sh203.4 million, almost triple the 2023 figure. Identity theft grew sixfold to Sh199 million.

While banks recovered about Sh368 million, insurers now warn of spiralling risks. Some banks are paying as much as Sh400 million annually in premiums to cover cyber thefts.

“The motivation of cyber criminals targeting financial institutions is financial gain. Cyber fraud was prevalent in the banking sector in 2024, with reported cases rising from 157 in 2023 to 353 in 2024, and the mount exposed increasing from Sh680.9 million to Sh1.9 billion,” the bank noted, adding, “Perhaps the most significant and emerging operational risk facing the financial sector is associated with the rapid adoption of financial technologies,” the CBK warned.

The Communications Authority of Kenya reported that cyberattacks in the country more than doubled to 7.96 billion attempts in the year to June 2025, with system attacks accounting for 97 percent of the threats.

Officials say the policy is aimed at curbing hate speech, misinformation and cybercrime .

Among the 26 social media sites affected were photo and video messaging app Snapchat, professional networking platform LinkedIn, online forum site Reddit, and free messaging app WhatsApp. 

Only five platforms — TikTok, Viber, Witk, Nimbuzz, and Popo Live — met the deadline, while Telegram and Global Diary remain under review. Meta has been in contact with Nepalese officials about the requirements.

The ban has drawn criticism from opposition figures, who warn it threatens freedom of expression. 

“Regulation is necessary, but the government must first identify what the problem is and where it lies,” said Raj Pandey, leader of the parliament’s main opposition party. “If social media is shut down, the country will become chaotic. We oppose this decision.”

“Regulation is necessary, but the government must first identify what the problem is and where it lies,” Pandey said. “If social media is shut down, the country will become chaotic. We oppose this decision.”

Nepal has an estimated 14.3 million active social media users in Nepal as of early 2025, or nearly half of its population, according to Data Reportal .

Around 14.3 million people use Facebook, 3.9 million use Instagram, 2 million use LinkedIn and 390,000 use X.

Here’s a breakdown of actions taken:

Angola

In Angola, authorities dismantled 25 cryptocurrency mining centres run by 60 Chinese nationals. The crackdown also uncovered 45 illicit power stations, confiscating mining equipment and IT assets worth more than USD 37 million, which the government now plans to redirect to support power distribution in vulnerable areas.

Zambia

In Zambia, the FBI reported that authorities broke up a massive online investment fraud scheme that had lured 65,000 victims into fake cryptocurrency ventures through aggressive advertising campaigns. The fraud caused losses estimated at USD 300 million. Police arrested 15 suspects, seizing domains, mobile numbers, and bank accounts linked to the scam. In a separate case, investigators uncovered a scam centre suspected of ties to human trafficking, confiscating 372 forged passports from seven countries in joint operations with the Immigration Department in Lusaka.

Côte d’Ivoire

Côte d’Ivoire authorities dismantled a transnational inheritance scam with roots in Germany, arresting the main suspect and seizing electronics, jewellery, cash, vehicles, and documents. The scam, which tricked victims into paying fees for fake inheritances, caused losses of USD 1.6 million.

Other countries involved

Operation Serengeti 2.0 was carried out under the umbrella of the African Joint Operation against Cybercrime in other countries including; Benin, Cameroon, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Seychelles, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and the United Kingdom.

Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza praised the results, saying, “Each Interpol-coordinated operation builds on the last, deepening cooperation, increasing information sharing and developing investigative skills across member countries. This global network is stronger than ever, delivering real outcomes and safeguarding victims.”

The operation ran from June to August 2025 and brought together investigators from across Africa and the United Kingdom to tackle high-impact cybercrimes such as ransomware, online scams, and business email compromise (BEC).

Jabbi explained that while Gambia’s communications regulator, PURA, had recommended Starlink for a Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) license, his assumption of office prompted a deeper review of the license application. He said this scrutiny was necessary to ensure compliance with Gambian laws and international best practices, the Standard reports.

“Upon review, I identified several critical issues surrounding the license that required further analysis and consultations, including at the cabinet level,” Jabbi said, adding that Starlink was later found not to qualify under the VSAT category, triggering a reassessment.

The minister confirmed that both Starlink and U.S. officials repeatedly followed up, including during his visit to Washington for World Bank meetings, where the issue was raised again. “Interpretations may vary depending on jurisdiction and culture. However, it is true that the U.S. State Department, U.S. Embassy, and Starlink have been very persistent and critical in their follow-up,” he noted.

Jabbi emphasised that the delay stems from the disruptive nature of Starlink’s technology and the need to consider the country economic, political, social, and security implications. The final decision, he said, will be made at the cabinet level and communicated accordingly.

The move follows rising concern over online fraud schemes operated from Poipet, a Cambodian town bordering Thailand’s Sa Kaeo province.

“This is a big step to protect Thai citizens from scammers,” said NBTC Deputy Secretary-General Trairat Viriyasirikul at a press conference.

Under the new regulations, telecom companies have been directed to terminate all data and voice services within 15 days in border areas, particularly near the Khlong Luek crossing. Internet access will be restricted in inland towns, with telcos also required to submit SIM card sales data every 15 days and justify any cross-border services with detailed documentation.

The decision comes in response to the growing threat of transnational cybercrime, which Thai police say has declined slightly since enforcement began. Officials, however, note limited cooperation from Cambodian authorities. “We have identified major scam hubs in Poipet, but Cambodia has done little to intervene,” said Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, inspector-general of the Royal Thai Police.

International concerns over Cambodia’s role

An Amnesty International report released on June 26 accuses Cambodia of allowing its territory to become a haven for organised cybercrime. The 18-month investigation revealed that many scam centres, of which 53 were identified in the country, operate like detention facilities, guarded with razor wire and armed personnel, with many victims trafficked from abroad, who have faced forced labour, torture, and abuse.

“Cambodia is allowing a billion-dollar shadow economy to flourish,” said Amnesty Secretary-General Agnes Callamard. The report estimates that Cambodia’s scam industry generates over $12.5 billion annually, nearly half of the country’s GDP.

One survivor, an 18-year-old Thai woman named Lisa, was promised a hotel job but instead was trafficked to Phnom Penh and beaten for trying to escape. “They told me they’d keep beating me until I stopped screaming,” she recalled.

Diplomatic fallout

Cambodia has remained silent on both Amnesty’s findings and Thailand’s internet shutdown. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Hun Manet set up a cybercrime task force, but its actions have been limited. Critics say powerful elites, including Cambodian politicians, are complicit in or benefit from the scam economy.

With over 200,000 people believed to be trafficked into scam networks across Myanmar and Cambodia, international pressure is mounting. The U.S. and China have both urged Phnom Penh to act, but few arrests or closures have followed.

The partnership aims to reduce internet and data transit costs, enhance network reliability, and facilitate high-speed connectivity for telecom operators, public institutions, and businesses across both countries. Initial capacity is set at 42.5 Gbps, with plans to scale to 100 Gbps by 2026. The system uses secure IP/MPLS protocols and fibre technology to deliver robust digital services.

Officials from both countries say the initiative aligns with broader regional goals under ECOWAS and the African Union to build a unified African digital market.

"This project is a key component of the Guinea–Sierra Leone Digital Pact 2024, aimed at unifying digital markets and services," said Nouhan Traoré, Secretary General of Guinea’s Ministry of Telecommunications. Leoncom CEO Foday Rado Yokie added that, “our collaboration with SOGEB will improve broadband access in Sierra Leone and stimulate economic interaction with Guinea.

Mohamed Kourouma, Director of SOGEB, however, noted, “This agreement is a major milestone for Guinea, reflecting our commitment to building an open and interconnected national backbone that benefits operators, enterprises, and citizens alike.”

The agreement also supports the Guinea–Sierra Leone Digital Pact 2024 , a bilateral roadmap to foster digital inclusion and integration, combating cybercrime, and improving cross-border communication.

In early 2025, Guinea's internet penetration rate was 26.5%, with 3.96 million users, while Sierra Leone had a 20.7% penetration rate, with 1.80 million users, according to Datareportal . Telecom giants like Orange and MTN are expected to benefit from reduced operational costs, while citizens in border communities will gain better access to services such as e-learning, telemedicine, and remote work platforms. Discussions are already underway to extend this fibre corridor to Liberia, potentially anchoring a sub-regional digital backbone.

Disclaimer: The image for the article was AI-generated

Guinea-Bissau has launched a school-based health initiative providing free medical care to students, in collaboration with the 20th Chinese medical team stationed in the country. The “Health into Schools” program, established in February by Guinea-Bissau’s Ministries of Public Health and Education, began operations on May 20. Since then, a team of 14 Chinese doctors, specialising in over 10 fields including paediatrics and cardiology, has offered health consultations, lectures, and screenings to more than 1,600 students across five schools in the capital, Bissau.

Guinea-Bissau strengthens civil-military cooperation with U.S. forces

Guinea-Bissau’s Guarda Nacional has completed its first Civil Affairs Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) in partnership with U.S. Special Operations Command Africa, aimed at improving civil-military relations and operational readiness. The training, which ended on May 30, 2025, near Bissau, was conducted with members of the U.S. Army’s 91st Civil Affairs Battalion. It focused on key areas such as civil engagement, reconnaissance, community needs assessment, and tactical combat casualty care.

Guinea-Bissau grants legal fishing access to Senegalese fishermen

Guinea-Bissau has formalised a new fisheries protocol with Senegal, granting legal access to its maritime zones for Senegalese artisanal fishermen, the Ministry of Fisheries has confirmed. The agreement aims to regulate cross-border fishing under a defined legal framework, ensuring greater protection for fishing activities while promoting joint management of shared marine resources. It marks a step toward sustainable exploitation of Guinea-Bissau’s coastal waters and improved maritime governance.

Guinea-Bissau inaugurates China-funded highway

President Umaro Sissoco Embaló on Monday inaugurated a newly completed highway connecting Bissau to the suburb of Safim, spanning 8.2 kilometres. The project, constructed by China’s Longjian Road & Bridge Co., Ltd., was fully funded by the Chinese government at a cost of $30 million. Speaking at the ceremony, President Embaló described the highway as a symbol of the “strong friendship, solidarity, and ongoing cooperation” between Guinea-Bissau and China.

Guinea-Bissau becomes 23rd African country to approve Starlink internet service

Starlink has officially launched its satellite-based high-speed internet service in Guinea-Bissau, following regulatory approval from the National Regulatory Authority for Information and Communication Technologies (ARN-TIC) in April 2025. The rollout began after a provisional license was granted in December 2024, marking a significant step toward enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure and connectivity. With this launch, Guinea-Bissau joins 22 other African nations that have approved the Starlink service, including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Egypt, and Morocco, as part of a broader effort to expand reliable internet access across the continent.

The court's decision restrains the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), mobile network providers including Safaricom and Airtel Kenya, the Ministry of ICT, and the Office of the Attorney General from initiating or facilitating any form of digital communication disruption, the Citizen Digital reports.

The order stems from a petition filed by the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) – Kenya, the Kenya Union of Journalists, and two other civil society organizations represented by lawyer Dudley Ochiel. The petitioners accuse state agencies of repeated and unlawful digital interference in recent years.

Cited in the petition are incidents during Kenya’s 2023 and 2024 national examinations when access to the Telegram messaging app was reportedly restricted. The petitioners also referenced the June 25, 2024, internet shutdown during the #RejectFinanceBill protests, which they claim was imposed without legal authority and resulted in the deaths of nearly 60 protesters.

"Then, on 25 June 2024, during the #RejectFinanceBill protests, the Respondents illegally shut down the internet," they stated. 

They argue that the shutdown, which lasted several days, caused an estimated $6.3 million in daily GDP losses and severely disrupted small businesses that rely on digital platforms.

Airtel Africa currently operates in 14 countries, while Starlink is active in nine, with a new agreement expected to strengthen Airtel’s satellite connectivity offerings and improve internet access in underserved and remote areas.

Airtel described the collaboration as a “strategic investment and partnership,” aimed at advancing its next-generation connectivity services.

This move follows a similar arrangement in India earlier this year, where Airtel agreed to distribute Starlink kits through its retail network, potentially bundling Starlink services with its existing offerings.

A data report from Exploding Topics and Sandvine offers an eye-opening and surprising glimpse into the sheer scale of daily digital activity.

Let's take a look:

1. Emails Sent: 333 Billion

Email is still king of the internet, with an astonishing 333 billion emails sent every day. Despite the growth of instant messaging and social apps, email remains the backbone of business communication, digital marketing, and transactional messages (like receipts and notifications). However, Sandvine reports that over 45% of global email traffic is spam, totalling 152 billion junk emails daily. While AI is improving spam filters, this staggering figure still reflects the heavy reliance on email for both productivity and scams.

2. SMS Sent: 24 Billion

Though less flashy than social media , SMS is far from obsolete. With 24 billion text messages sent daily, it’s still widely used for two-factor authentication, appointment reminders, and messaging in areas with poor internet connectivity. SMS also sees strong usage in regions where smartphones are widespread but app-based communication hasn't fully taken over.

3. Google Searches: 8.5 Billion

Google processes 8.5 billion searches per day, making it the most visited website in the world . Why? It’s the default knowledge engine for billions, whether they’re looking up recipes, reviews, health symptoms, or academic research. Exploding Topics notes that the rise of voice search and AI-assisted queries (like Google Bard or Gemini) is only making these numbers soar.

4. Snapchat Snaps: 8.5 Billion

Snapchat remains a top player in the ephemeral content space with 8.5 billion snaps sent daily. The platform’s visual-first, short-form style resonates strongly with Gen Z, and its expansion into AR (Augmented Reality) features has only boosted engagement. According to Exploding Topics, its user base has stabilised after a dip, thanks to its growing role in personal communication and storytelling.

5. Facebook Posts: 2.5 Billion

Even with competition from newer platforms, Facebook users post 2.5 billion times a day. While it’s no longer the "cool" app for teens, it's still massively popular among older demographics, small businesses, and community groups. Facebook’s deep integration into social and commercial ecosystems, particularly in developing countries, keeps it highly relevant.

6. Tinder Swipes: 1.6 Billion

Swiping for love (or curiosity) continues at full force with 1.6 billion swipes per day on Tinder. Dating apps have normalised casual digital matchmaking, and post-pandemic isolation has only increased usage. Sandvine notes that dating apps now consume more bandwidth than ever due to video calls and real-time messaging features.

7. X (formerly Twitter) Posts: 500 Million

While usage has fluctuated post-rebrand, X still sees 500 million posts daily. Elon Musk’s platform remains a global real-time conversation hub, especially for politics, sports, and breaking news. The rollout of long-form content and creator monetisation tools in 2024 helped keep engagement afloat, according to Exploding Topics.

8. Zoom Meeting Hours: 151 Million

Work-from-anywhere is here to stay. 151 million hours of Zoom meetings are logged daily as remote work, global teams, and hybrid education continue to thrive. Sandvine classifies video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet among the top drivers of upstream internet traffic globally.

The problem started when construction work at PHP Park led to a pile of rocks being dropped on top of the cable.

This happened some time ago when George Weah was still president, but the damage is only now being felt more widely.

The cable became buried under the rocks , causing slow and unstable Internet across the country.

Henry Benson, head of the Cable Consortium of Liberia, said they had warned about this risk earlier. He said the damage could have caused a total Internet blackout if nothing had been done.

Now, under President Joseph Boakai’s leadership, the government is acting quickly to fix the problem.

A repair ship is on its way and is expected to arrive by April 23 to help fix the cable and restore proper service. But until then, the Internet may remain unstable.

To stop the country from going completely offline, the Liberia Telecommunications Authority is allowing service providers to use other backup connections to help keep people connected while repairs are being made.

Even though new options like Starlink have recently entered the market, most Liberians still depend on the ACE cable.

He explained that platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and others are no longer just for private conversations.

According to him, when people create large groups for business, politics, or activism, these spaces should be regulated like any other public association.

He compared it to forming an official group or organisation, saying that once a chat includes dozens or even hundreds of people, it is no longer just a private space.

The minister warned that social media has become a tool for making money in ways that may not always be legal, local reports say.

He also said that some people use these platforms to spread messages that could threaten the government.

Similar concerns have been raised in other African countries, and Niger is now looking at how to apply new rules to prevent abuse.

Raliou said the government is working with other countries that have already started controlling social media and promised that clear plans will be shared soon and any new rules will be designed to stop harm.

He however maintained that people will still be allowed to express their views. He insisted that the goal is not to take away freedom of speech but to protect the public from false information and online dangers.

Zambian Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe confirmed that all Zambians in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are safe and accounted for. The DRC has accused Rwanda of illegal occupation and attempting regime change, amid recent clashes where 16 soldiers from southern African nations were killed near Goma. DRC's Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner emphasised the need for accountability for Rwandan President Paul Kagame's actions violating international law as M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have taken control in eastern Congo.

Zambia-Costa Rica relations

Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles has called for enhanced cooperation with Zambia to benefit both nations. This request was made during the accreditation of Zambia’s Ambassador to the U.S., Chibamba Kanyama, as Non-Resident Ambassador to Costa Rica. During the ceremony in San José, President Robles highlighted Zambia's investment potential and expressed eagerness to meet Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema at the Ocean Conference in June. Ambassador Kanyama emphasised the importance of bilateral engagements for economic growth and collaboration, Zambia Monitor reports.

Importation of pharmaceutical products

Zambia has invited Bangladesh to establish a pharmaceutical plant in the country and has expressed interest in importing pharmaceutical products from Bangladesh. According to The Business Standard , the invitation came during a meeting between Zambian High Commissioner Percy P Chanda and Bangladeshi Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain. The discussions included opportunities for Zambia to import jute products from Bangladesh and potential copper exports to Bangladesh. Both parties emphasised strengthening bilateral relations and explored future collaboration in agriculture and contract farming.

Internet outage

Airtel Zambia has resolved a temporary internet outage and disruption to the *117# service that affected parts of the country. Tech Africa News reports that the company apologised for the inconvenience and thanked customers for their patience during the downtime, confirming that services are now fully restored.

Zambia’s chances at CAF AFCON 2025

Chipolopolo captain Lubambo Musonda believes Zambia has a fair chance in the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 tournament, despite being in a challenging Group A with hosts Morocco, Mali, and Comoros. The tournament will take place in Morocco from December 25, 2025, to January 18, 2026, and Zambia's campaign kicks off against Mali on December 22. Musonda noted the importance of preparation, aiming for improvement after last year's early exit in the group stage. This will be his fourth AFCON appearance, following previous youth competitions.

Digital rights group VE sin Filtro reported that the unblocking of Telegram began with some ISPs on the night of January 12, 2024. By January 13, most providers had restored access.

This situation is not unprecedented, as there was a brief Telegram block during post-election censorship in September 2024. Encrypted messaging service Signal is also currently restricted.

This move sparked an increase in VPN usage as Venezuelans sought to bypass the restrictions. In response, the government extended its censorship to the websites of over 20 VPN providers, including popular services like Proton VPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and IPVanish. Despite this, these VPN services are still operational in the country, according to the providers.

The government has now blocked Canva, a graphic design tool, as well as several security-oriented services like the Tor Browser.

This wave of internet censorship has raised concerns over the increasing control of digital communications in the country, as citizens continue to face difficulties in accessing information and communication platforms.

While some countries boast universal connectivity, others grapple with limited access, leaving millions disconnected.

According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) World Telecommunication, countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iceland lead the world in internet penetration, achieving 100% digital access for their populations.

Similarly, Northern Europe continues to set the standard, with nations like Norway and Denmark surpassing 97.5% penetration rates.

North America follows closely, with the United States and Canada achieving 92% and 93% access, respectively.

These figures highlight how developed economies have integrated connectivity into their infrastructures, empowering citizens with the tools for education, economic growth, and innovation.

Globally, the picture is more sobering. On average, only 67.5% of the world’s population is online.

The disparities become stark when examining regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, where connectivity remains challenging.

Countries such as Somalia (2%), South Sudan (7%), and Uganda (10%) struggle with limited infrastructure and affordability, keeping internet access out of reach for the majority of their populations.

Similarly, South Asia, despite recent progress, lags, with only 47.4% of its population online.

In countries like India (46%), Pakistan (21%), and Bangladesh (39%), millions are left in digital isolation.

This digital divide has far-reaching implications. Citizens have greater opportunities for education, economic advancement, and innovation in nations with high internet penetration.

By contrast, those without access face systemic disadvantages, with limited ability to engage in the digital economy or access critical information.

This disparity perpetuates existing inequalities, hindering efforts to create a more equitable global society.

Bridging the internet access gap is a technological challenge and a moral imperative. Governments, international organisations, and private companies must collaborate to invest in infrastructure, improve affordability, and provide digital literacy programs.

Only then can we build a fairer, more connected world where all the benefits of the digital age are shared.

The company has been granted exclusive rights for ten years to roll out 5G and 4G infrastructure, aiming to boost network reliability nationwide.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo celebrated the launch as a transformative step toward a digitally inclusive Ghana. 

“This new technology is more than just faster internet, but a leap forward in connectivity that aligns with Ghana's vision to become a digital economy hub, accelerating growth, enhancing services, and transforming lives across all sectors,” he stated during the event on Friday, November 1.

According to Akufo-Addo, 5G technology will play a crucial role in driving Ghana’s digital agenda forward, embedding advanced tools like the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into daily life. 

“The 5G technology will drive our agenda forward, embedding the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into daily life across Ghana,” he said, expressing hope that sectors like agriculture, health, education, and manufacturing would benefit immensely from the advanced network capabilities.

This development comes after Ghana recently granted a license to Starlink, providing the country with an additional internet option, after parts of West and Central Africa experienced significant internet disruptions in March, increasing demand for reliable connectivity solutions.

With this 5G launch, Ghana joins other African countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, and Mauritius in embracing next-generation connectivity. 

South Africa, the first African nation to roll out 5G in March 2020, leads the continent with the largest subscriber base, having reached approximately 5 million subscribers by the end of 2022, second only to Saudi Arabia in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, according to GlobalComms Database Service .

Other countries like Cuba and Ethiopia also scored poorly, receiving 20 and 27 points, respectively, making them the least free in Latin America and Africa. The study ranked internet freedom in 72 countries, assessing both improvements and declines across various political landscapes.

Countries were scored on a scale from 100, indicating the most-free, down to 0, marking the least free. The report evaluates each country in three areas: access to the internet, restrictions on online content, and protection of user rights.

Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia, Belarus, Vietnam, Cuba, Russia, Iran, China and Myanmar were among the 10 lowest-scoring countries in the entire rankings.

Iceland topped the rankings with a score of 94 as the most internet-free country around the world. Estonia, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Netherlands, Taiwan, Japan, United Kingdom, and Germany followed with high numbers of 86, 86, 85, 83, 79, 78, 78 and 77 respectively.

The Freedom on the Net 2024 report measures the subtle and not-so-subtle ways that governments and non-state actors around the world restrict online rights.

Countries were rated based on government influence, ownership and control of internet access to citizens, legal regulations on content and censorship, as well as restrictions on free expression and legal consequences of online activities among others.

The airline announced the launch of the service from its Boeing 777, flying from Doha to London, on 22 October 2024.

“World’s first press release at 35,000 feet,’ the post on X said. “We are proud to be the airline that leads the way, setting new standards in the airline industry,” another post said.

The move makes Qatar Airways the first airline in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to offer this service on board, allowing passengers to stream, play games, and work online at 35,000 feet.

By 2025, the service is expected to be expanded to the entire Boeing 777 fleet, followed by the Airbus A350 fleet in mid-2025.

Starlink, engineered by SpaceX, is the largest satellite internet constellation in the world which promises low-latency, high-speed internet, making online activities seamless for passengers even in remote locations.

The Freedom House report highlights several key issues contributing to China's low ranking. These include the "Great Firewall," which blocks access to numerous foreign websites and social media platforms, and stringent regulations that limit free speech online.

However, in response to the report, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Mao Ning, dismissed the findings as "entirely baseless" and accused Freedom House of having ulterior motives.

Mao emphasised that Chinese citizens enjoy various rights and freedoms under the law and that the report's claims do not reflect the reality of internet use in China.

"First, I want to tell you that China is a country governed by the rule of law, and Chinese citizens enjoy various rights and freedoms in accordance with the law. The institution you mentioned has long made some false statements regarding China-related issues. As for the so-called report, I think it is entirely baseless and made with ulterior motives," she told reporters on Wednesday, October 16.

Hundreds of Kenyans in Lebanon are caught in the violent crossfire between Israel and Hezbollah, feeling abandoned amid the escalating conflict. The East African reports that despite the dangerous conditions, the Kenyan government insists all citizens are safe but has yet to announce concrete plans for their evacuation. Kenya's non-resident Ambassador to Lebanon, Halima Mohamud, assured that the embassy remains in contact with the stranded Kenyans, providing them with emergency contacts.

Lecturers’ strike ends 

A one-week strike by lecturers and staff at Kenya’s public universities has ended following a deal with the government. Workers will receive basic salary increases, with a 7% raise workers in job grades 13A, 14A and 15A and 10% for job grades 10A, 11A, and 12A, the Nation.Africa reports. The agreement includes a four percent annual salary increment and covers the 2021-2025 cycle, set to begin in October 2023. The deal was brokered by an inter-ministerial committee led by the Ministry of Labour. 

Starlink mini rolls out in Kenya 

Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet company, has launched a more affordable and portable version of its installation package in Kenya, dubbed "Starlink Mini." The hardware kit is priced at Sh27,000 (approximately $200), much lower than the previous standard kit. Monthly service fees remain unchanged, with prices starting at Sh1,300 (approximately $10) for a 50GB limited package, Business Daily Africa reports. "Starlink Mini is now Available in Kenya! Stay connected with high-speed internet at home or on the go," the firm noted in a post on X. This new package allows users to stay connected on the move, expanding internet access in rural and remote areas.  

Kenya leads in sports betting in Africa 

Kenya has the highest number of sports bettors in Africa, according to a recent survey. Football is the most popular sport for betting, with 82.81% of Kenyans participating. Business Insider Africa notes that despite the economic contributions of the industry, governments have raised concerns over its negative impact on youths, many of whom have no stable income. Africa’s online gambling market is expected to grow significantly, reaching $1.85 billion by end of 2024.

817 individuals to be admitted to Kenyan bar 

The Council of Legal Education (CLE) has gazetted a list of 817 individuals for admission to the bar, following their successful completion of the required exams and pupillage. These new lawyers are set to be formally admitted under the Advocates Act, Cap 16, after passing the Advocates Training Programme (ATP) at the Kenya School of Law, the Star reports. The CLE is responsible for administering the Advocates Training Programme (ATP) exam for candidates trained at the Kenya School of Law (KSL).

The pursuit of innovative technology and infrastructure development remains a pivotal focus in South Africa's socio-economic landscape. Recently, Elon Musk announced that Starlink is awaiting regulatory approval to commence its satellite internet service in South Africa. Drive Tesla reports that the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has noted that no formal application has been registered by SpaceX. Starlink aims to provide high-speed internet to underserved rural areas, drawing on its operational presence in nearby countries. With operational compliance dependent on obtaining two critical licenses from ICASA and adhering to Black Economic Empowerment regulations, including local ownership stipulations, the service's current installation is considered illegal by ICASA. There is, however, a notable uptake among South African users utilising Starlink's roaming services, despite the risks involved with unlicensed operations.

Ownership transparency

The Financial Intelligence Centre has reduced the threshold for identifying Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) from 25% to 5%, as detailed in Public Compliance Communication 59 (PCC59). This amendment addresses sophisticated ownership concealment tactics employed by criminals, particularly in tender corruption cases often linked to shell companies, Tech Financials reports. The regulation syncs with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission's Beneficial Ownership Register, demanding detailed business disclosures while promising to leverage technological solutions for streamlined compliance. Given South Africa's greylisting by the Financial Action Task Force, non-compliance harbours considerable risks. The anticipated improvement in ownership transparency is expected to yield benefits for the general populace by mitigating corruption and fostering equitable competition. This cultural pivot towards integrity in financial operations could attract foreign investment, necessitating collaboration among businesses, regulators, and tech providers for effective change implementation.

EU supports S.A's hydrogen project

In the realm of sustainable energy, the European Union has committed approximately €32 million in grants to bolster green hydrogen value chains in South Africa. This funding, inclusive of a €25 million grant aimed at catalysing R10 billion in private and public finance, seeks to boost hydrogen production, transportation, and storage capabilities, ultimately contributing to job creation and greenhouse gas emission reductions. An additional grant of about €6.9 million will support Transnet’s green hydrogen initiatives, particularly in research and pilot projects regarding low-carbon hydrogen production. This strategic move aligns with the EU's Global Gateway strategy, envisaging Southern Africa as a burgeoning market for green fuels, Offshore Energy reports.

National road network repair

Infrastructure development is equally pressing, with South Africa's National Roads Agency reporting a need for R307 billion ($17.2 billion) to repair and enhance the national road network. This financial requirement emerges amidst pressing infrastructure upgrades in ports and electricity systems, tied to the deployment of design and construction work across 1,437 projects. Compounding this demand are delays attributed to contractor bankruptcies and organised crime, Financial Post reports. The agency’s management of a modest 70% of the country’s long-distance freight underscores the urgency of investments in both road and state-owned enterprises, such as Eskom and Transnet, advocating for improved governance to enhance project execution.

Flooding support

Lastly, amid severe weather conditions, Episcopal Relief & Development is collaborating with HOPE Africa to render immediate assistance to families in the Western Cape affected by flooding and high winds. With 15,000 structures damaged and 4,500 individuals displaced from their homes, the partnership aims to provide crucial emergency support, including blankets and sandbags. It also seeks to advocate for social housing and improved living conditions from governmental bodies, with local churches actively participating in outreach efforts, PRWeb reports. Contributions to the International Disaster Fund will significantly bolster ongoing emergency relief and sustainable recovery efforts to assist impacted communities.

South Africa

In South Africa, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) ordered IT Lec, the sole importer of Starlink kits, to halt the importation and sale of Starlink products. Despite IT Lec finding workarounds to serve customers, ICASA has issued a stern warning to abandon these methods. 

In a recent email to South African users, Starlink announced that their internet access would cease on April 30 due to violations of its terms and conditions, emphasizing that using Starlink kits outside designated areas is prohibited. 

ICASA mandates that applicants must have 30% ownership from historically disadvantaged groups to obtain a license. Many South Africans have resorted to purchasing roaming packages from countries where Starlink is licensed to bypass these restrictions.

Botswana

Botswana’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) initially prohibited the importation, use, and sale of Starlink kits and services, rejecting Starlink’s application to operate in the country. However, in a recent turn of events , the Botswana Presidency announced that Starlink had been granted an operating license. This decision followed a meeting between President Mokgweetsi Masisi and Starlink’s Director of Global Licensing and Activation, Ben MacWilliams. The President instructed the regulator to expedite the licensing process within two weeks. 

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa granted Starlink a license after an exclusive partnership was agreed upon with a telco owned by his associate, Wicknell Chivayo. This move aims to deploy high-speed, low-cost, low-Earth-orbit (LEO) internet infrastructure across Zimbabwe, particularly in rural areas. The decision "is expected to result in the deployment of high speed, low cost, LEO (low-Earth-orbit) internet infrastructure throughout Zimbabwe and particularly in all the rural areas," Mnangagwa said in a statement. Prior to the licensing, Starlink devices had been illegal in Zimbabwe since January 2024, with the telecommunications authority threatening arrests for those distributing or advertising the devices. 

Cameroon

In April, Cameroon ordered the seizure of Starlink equipment at its ports of entry, as the provider was not licensed. Customs Director General Fongod Edwin Nuvaga highlighted that the technology poses a national security threat due to its unrestricted, ultra-fast internet connection capabilities. The seizures will continue until the telecoms regulator licenses and regulates Starlink in the country. 

Côte d'Ivoire

In March, Côte d'Ivoire's Telecommunications/ICT Regulatory Authority (Artci) warned Starlink against operating in the country without due approval. This warning followed internet disruptions in several West and Central African nations caused by damage to submarine cables. 

Ghana

In April, the National Communications Authority (NCA) approved SpaceX's Starlink to operate in Ghana, allowing the company to provide satellite broadband services. This approval followed the policy endorsement of Ghana's Satellite Licensing Framework by the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation. Previously, the NCA had declared Starlink illegal, stating that selling Starlink equipment or services violated the Electronic Communications Act 2008. This development makes Ghana the eighth African country to approve Starlink, joining Nigeria, Mozambique, Eswatini, Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, and Rwanda.  

Meanwhile, several other African countries, including Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Senegal, Botswana, and Mali, have declared the internet satellite company illegal.

Chile is seeking to become the world's top lithium producer, but environmentalists are concerned about the impact of lithium extraction on the fragile ecosystems in the Atacama desert. The extraction process involves pumping water from salt flats, leading to concerns about water scarcity and environmental degradation. Indigenous Colla people are also at risk of losing their traditional way of life due to dwindling water sources, as reported by France24 .

Increased internet users

Internet usage in Chile has seen a significant surge in the first quarter of 2024, with both fixed and mobile internet traffic experiencing a 12% year-over-year increase, as reported by Subtel's latest statistics. Notably, fixed traffic continues to dominate, accounting for nearly five times the volume of mobile traffic, with a substantial total of almost 7.9 million terabytes. This growth highlights the expanding online presence in Chile, with both fixed and mobile internet services contributing to the upward trend, according to Telecompaper .

Strides in fruit exports

Over the last week, the Chilean Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) in collaboration with Frutas de Chile has engaged in strategic discussions with plant health officials from Japan, Korea, and China. These meetings are part of a concerted effort to gear up for the 2024-2025 fruit export campaign and to facilitate the introduction of new varieties of Chilean fruits into these Asian markets. According to Fresh Plaza , the team, spearheaded by SAG's national director José Guajardo, comprises experts from SAG and stakeholders from the private sector. Their dialogue has centred on the progress and plant health prerequisites necessary for the exportation of Chilean agricultural products, including apples, to these nations.

World's largest astronomy camera

Boasting a resolution surpassing 3.2 gigapixels, the heaviest digital camera in optical astronomy, tipping the scales at nearly three tons, is poised for a groundbreaking ten-year survey and is set to be mounted beneath the pristine skies of northern Chile. As reported by Reuters , The components necessary to construct the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, encompassing both a terrestrial telescope and the colossal camera, have been transported via multiple conveyances to the peak of Cerro Pachón in the Coquimbo region, situated at the fringe of the Atacama desert and approximately 565 kilometres to the north of Santiago.

Bishops against abortion and euthanasia advocacy

Chilean bishops have expressed strong disapproval of President Gabriel Boric's intention to support legislation that would decriminalise euthanasia and advance another bill to regulate legal abortion within the nation. President Boric publicised these legislative initiatives on June 1, in the course of the customary presidential address to Congress, an event akin to the State of the Union address in the United States. “I am convinced of the need to have a democratic debate on sexual and reproductive rights. That is why, during the second half of this year, we will introduce a bill on legal abortion. (…) The women of Chile deserve their right to decide,” Boric declared according to Catholic World Report .

NITA-U, the statutory body responsible for coordinating government IT services, is the implementing agency for the Uganda Digital Acceleration Project (UDAP). Launched in 2021, UDAP includes a $60 million grant and a $140 million loan.

In the latest development, reliable sources informed the Monitor that World Bank officials have repeatedly expressed concerns during project review meetings about NITA-U's prolonged delays in clearing key contracts for the project.

“When the ToRs for every component are generated, they go through the committees for review and then shared with the World Bank and then sent back to NITA-U to initiate procurement. It is now apparent they tend to sit on bid documents and contracts,” the Monitor's sources revealed, pointing to another procurement that has remained pending since last September.

The World Bank further reverted through an email that “As part of the routine Implementation Support Mission for Uganda Digital Acceleration Project (UDAP-GovNet), the Bank has been discussing the status of the implementation with project stakeholders and approaches to fast-track implementation of the UDAP-GovNet project.”

A request to NITA-U’s Communication Manager Florence Mukankusi to disprove or ascertain the World Bank's position has, however, gone unanswered.

What they said

The Google team is enthused about this development and with anticipation, the Chief Executive Officer of Google, Sundar Pichai as reported by CNN wrote in a blog post on Monday, May 13 "I’m excited to announce that we will begin launching this fully revamped experience, ‘AI overviews,’ to everyone in the US this week.” The Google team adds that gone will be the days when a user has to go through about five searches to get what they need. “You can ask whatever’s on your mind or whatever you need to get done – from researching to planning to brainstorming – and Google will take care of the legwork,” said Google Search team boss Liz Reid according to a report filed by Punch Newspaper . “We’ve found that with AI Overviews, people use Search more, and are more satisfied with their results. Rather than breaking your question into multiple searches, you can ask your most complex questions, with all the nuances and caveats you have in mind, all in one go.”

Some hospitals in the country have reported the inability to diagnose patients due to internet disruptions. According to the IT manager of Aga Khan Hospital in Dar es Salaam, May Kibaja, the hospital is only getting by with its uninterrupted internal systems.

"The only challenge we face is communication via email and so on. We also face the challenge of catering to NHIF patients since we need to communicate with the insurance provider before services can be rendered," she said when speaking to The Citizen .

Other service providers in the country like banks are facing similar issues as hospitals, as external transactions are met with difficulties. Reports from The Citizen indicate that numerous service providers, including Money Gram, Western Union, and RIA, are struggling to maintain operations.

Other institutions hard-hit by the unstable internet connection in Tanzania are the media houses. There are delays in uploading news stories and producing video content.

Additionally, the American Embassy in Tanzania was reported to have closed temporarily on Tuesday, May 14 due to the poor internet connection.

“Due to degraded network service nationwide, the embassy will remain closed to the public,” the embassy said in an X post. “The consular section will be open as scheduled for visa pick-up and for emergency American citizen cases.”

Meanwhile, a report by News Central suggests that one of the country's major internet providers, Vodacom has announced that it has fully restored its internet connection.

The May internet disruption in East Africa is not the first for 2024. On February 24, three submarine cables passing through the Red Sea suffered damage: the Seacom/Tata cable, the Asia Africa Europe-1 (AAE-1), and the Europe India Gateway (EIG). It is suspected that the cables were cut by the anchor of the Rubymar, a cargo ship that had been struck by a ballistic missile on February 18.

This comes after several East African countries were affected by major internet disruptions following a submarine cable cut.

“Due to degraded network service nationwide, the embassy will remain closed to the public,” the embassy said on an X post.

The embassy will be reopened on May 16 and all appointments on May 14 and 15 will be rescheduled to a later date.

Emergency cases involving American citizens and visa collections will however be prioritised.

“The consular section will be open as scheduled for visa pick and for emergency American citizen cases,” the statement said.

Many East African countries have been hit by major internet outages following a submarine cable cut . The event which happened on May 12 has caused slow internet speed and disruptions and affected East African and South African internet service providers.

Countries including Kenya and South Africa have been affected.

According to Citizen Digital , network providers including network giant Safaricom are adopting redundancy measures to salvage the situation.

“We have experienced an outage on one of the undersea cables that deliver internet traffic in and out of the country. We have since activated redundancy measures to minimise service interruption and keep you connected as we await the full restoration of the cable. You may, however, experience reduced internet speeds,” Safaricom said in a statement.

Leading Pan-African technology  group, Liquid Telecom Technology also reported issues with the Eastern Africa Submarine Cable System (EASSy) and the Seacom cables.

Chief Technology and Innovation Officer for the group wrote in a social media post , “All sub-sea capacity between East Africa and South Africa is down. EASSy Cable - fault confirmed. Seacom Cable - observing fault that occurred at the same time”.

The device can transmit data at a speed of 100 Gbps, covering a distance of up to 330 feet (100 metres) which is 20 times faster than current 5G networks that can manage up to 4.9 Gbps.

According to the report , the primary distinction between 5G and 6G lies in the frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrum used. 5G typically operates at 28 GHz, while 6G is set to leverage higher bands known as "sub-terahertz" (100-300 GHz), enabling significantly faster speeds.

"To be successful, this effort will need to overcome several key challenges, such as determining the specific performance requirements of wireless devices operating in the sub-terahertz band, and then actually developing such devices," Fujitsu announced in April.

They added that the four companies will continue to collaborate in extensive research and development "into sub-terahertz telecommunications, leveraging each company's strengths in various initiatives to contribute to 6G standardisation."

Japan aims to lead the charge in the 6G revolution with the infrastructure expected to roll out in the 2030s, according to reports . However, the first 5G mobile towers didn't go online until the end of 2018 and the first 5G mobile networks didn't roll out until early 2019.

According to some projections , there will be close to 6 billion 5G connections by 2027.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Minister of Telecommunications, Jama Hassan Khalif, and other Members of Parliament, The Somalista reports.  

The 5G network will cover major cities including Mogadishu, Kismayo, Galkayo, Baidoa, Dhusamareeb, Beledwayne, Afgoye, Merca, and Dhobley, providing widespread access to high-speed internet.

Khalif recognised the launch as a symbol of Somalia's dedication to continuous improvement and growth. He emphasised the importance of advanced telecommunications infrastructure in the nation's economy and empowering its citizens.

With speeds of up to 10Gbps, the 5G service promises groundbreaking connectivity, empowering Somali communities and fostering a digitally inclusive society.

The CEO of Hormuud Telecom, Ahmed Yusuf highlighted the company's commitment to making 5G accessible to all Somalians to stimulate progress and growth. 

Hormuud Telecom's 5G launch aligns with Somalia's vision for a cashless economy, complementing its mobile money platform, EVC Plus. This integration aims to enhance financial inclusion and efficiency in transactions, overcoming challenges posed by a high percentage of unbanked citizens.

Hormuud Telecom became the second telecommunications company to unveil 5G services in Somalia, following in the footsteps of Somtel, which introduced its 5G network earlier in the year. Approximately 70% of Somalia's population is already covered by 4G networks, indicating a growing demand for faster and more reliable connectivity.

“Further investigations have revealed that the fault occurred due to an external incident that resulted in a cut on our submarine cable system in the Atlantic Ocean between Senegal and Cote d'Ivoire, offshore the coast of West Africa. This has disrupted MainOne services south of Senegal through Nigeria. Based on the circumstances, this failure constitutes an event of force majeure, being a situation beyond our control in the ordinary and normal course of business,” a statement released by the company read in part.

In its latest update on the issue, MainOne announced that the regions remain open to internet access and for business, noting that they have collaborated with regional partners “to reroute traffic with restoration capacity, and our observations are that we have stability on our network across the region.”

The statement added, “We are actively working with our maintenance partners, vessel owners, and permitting authorities to expedite the repair of our submarine cable. We are very optimistic that our cable will be repaired as planned and services fully restored so that we can continue to operate with continued integrity of the submarine cable.”

A force majeure is a contractual clause typically present in commercial contracts, allowing a temporary suspension of contractual obligations when unforeseeable circumstances occur. These can range from natural disasters such as fires, floods, or storms to societal disruptions including war, civil unrest, and labour strikes or infrastructure failures. This term essentially refers to unforeseen interruptions or acts of God preventing contract fulfilment.

In the past week, telecommunications firms and financial institutions in Nigeria, Ghana, and other neighbouring countries bore the brunt of an internet outage on Thursday due to damage inflicted on international undersea cables that provide connectivity.