Author: Akin Naphtal

Chinese short video platform, TikTok, has acquired a data facility in Norway from data centre group Green Mountain AS, as the company commits to storing data generated in the region locally. The Bytedance-owned app has faced scrutiny and restrictions in various countries, including bans on staff phones in several nations, the European Parliament, and the European Commission, due to concerns over data privacy and security. The new data centre will become TikTok’s largest in Europe, signifying that the company is serious about addressing concerns about the the Chinese government having potential access to European citizens’ data. To build trust and…

Leveraging intelligent coverage and capacity-based analytics, Unison FWA enables MTN’s sales representatives with real-time insights on the most suitable packages for each customer’s specific needs and location. This ensures that customers receive optimal service at competitive prices with adequate coverage. Effective subscriber management enables MTN to maintain network stability and better optimise resource allocation, contributing to a more reliable and consistent user experience for all. Furthermore, by safeguarding revenue streams, MTN can continue to invest in network infrastructure and service enhancements. READ ALSO: MTN South Africa announces early, voluntary retirement scheme Amith Maharaj, Executive Network Design and Planning at MTN,…

The two big red companies, Airtel Mobile Commerce and ZANACO have unveiled their partnership for the Bill Muster service which is a collections solution provided to universities, colleges, and schools with accounts at Zanaco for collections of tuition fees and other fees. Speaking at the launch in Lusaka recently, Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary Administration, Ms. Noriana Muneku commended ZANACO and Airtel for coming up with an easier way to transact calling the bill muster on Airtel money a revolutionary new service that allows customers to pay school bills quickly and easily using a mobile phone. “With bill muster on…

Airtel Uganda introduced its first 5G Home Broadband device to boost connectivity across the country. The new development was announced recently during the telco’s night golf monthly mug tournament at Uganda Golf Club. Airtel Uganda, Home Broadband Director, Mr. Denis Kahindi expressing his excitement about the new product said, “Imagine monitoring your business complex in real-time, ensuring everything is in perfect order, all through the seamless connectivity of our 5G Home Broadband device.” “Picture enhancing your home security, allowing you the peace of mind to take time off and indulge in more rounds of golf,” he added. Kahindi emphasized that…

European Union countries and lawmakers have agreed to implement the Cyber Resilience Act, designed to protect connected devices, including laptops, fridges, mobile apps, and smart devices, from cyber threats, in response to rising cyber attacks globally. Proposed by the European Commission in September 2022, the Cyber Resilience Act, which the EU agreed to implement on 30th November, will be applicable to all products connected directly or indirectly to another device or network. The legislation outlines cybersecurity requirements for the design, development, production, and sale of both hardware and software products. The new rules state that manufacturers must assess the cybersecurity…

Verto, a fintech and payment solution founded in London has agreed with the United Bank of Africa (UBA) to provide a platform for financial transactions for Kenyan entrepreneurs, small-scale businesses in the East African country, and corporations in over 190 countries. Following comments on the deal, the Country Director for Verto in Kenya, Kevin Nganga noted that the partnership would leverage Verto’s already-established financial ecosystem worth the $3 billion the company recorded last year. He also disclosed that the deal is closing a huge gap in Kenya’s international trade transactions. “By aligning with UBA Bank, Verto is strategically positioned in…

As part of its Digital Communities (DCs) initiative, American Tower Corporation (ATC) Ghana has inaugurated an ICT centre at the Ghana Girls Guide in Achimota, Accra. The internet service provider (ISP) has been actively establishing computer-equipped learning centres in the country. These centres utilise uninterrupted power supply and broadband connections from ATC Ghana’s tower sites, offering access to ICT services and training for basic school pupils and residents in underserved communities. The DCs, strategically located near basic schools, aim to facilitate teaching and learning by providing the schools easy access to technology. Before 2023, ATC Ghana had established 10 DCs…

Absa has revealed it launched its first data science and engineering academy. This academy is designed to foster emerging talent in the field of data and aims to transform its first cohort of 20 learners into data specialists, with advanced knowledge and skills to deliver value across the data lifecycle. According to the company, “Data Science and Engineering has become a scarce and critical skill due to the ever-expanding volume of information in the digital age”. The increasing growth of devices and online platforms implies a growing demand for individuals who can effectively navigate and interpret data. This skill is…

Latin American fintech Clara has launched a payment account in Brazil that it expects will help it reach 6 billion reais ($1.23 billion) in transactions in 2024, the company announced earlier this week, as it eyes growth in the region’s largest economy. Clara, which also provides corporate cards and expense management solutions, said the new product would allow clients in Brazil to expand their payment methods, adding bank slips and express wire transfers (TEDs) to its traditional credit card. The firm said it expects to more than double the number of clients served in Brazil next year with the new…

Pan-African mobile operator MTN SA has announced an opening voluntary severance package (VSP) and voluntary early retirement (VERP) for eligible employees, as part of its ongoing focus on cost-efficiencies and streamlining. According to an MTN statement, the offer has been extended to all departments and business units, and it is not targeting any specific figure. “The focus will remain on streamlined but sustainable operations, to best serve our customers,” it says. During a town hall meeting with CEO Charles Molapisi recently, MTN launched discussions with employees and key stakeholders, including the Communication Workers Union (CWU). “VERPs and VSPs are only…