Author: Akin Naphtal

Mastercard is setting the stage for the potential end of physical credit cards by 2030 with the introduction of a new payment system centered around tokenization and biometric authentication. The initiative aims to enhance digital transactions’ security, speed, and convenience, paving the way for a future without traditional plastic cards. At the core of Mastercard’s new system is tokenization, a technology that replaces the conventional 16-19 digit card number with a unique, secure token for each transaction. This token is valid only for that specific payment, offering enhanced security by preventing the sharing of sensitive card information during transactions. Currently…

The Tech Innovation Awards (TIA) is gearing up for its 8th edition, scheduled for November 2nd, 2024, at the Oriental Hotel in Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital. This prestigious event celebrates the achievements of Africa’s leading and most innovative technology experts shaping the future of the continent’s technological landscape. This year’s theme, “Excellence in Digital Innovations,” highlights the transformative impact of technology across the West African nation, spotlighting strides in sectors such as fintech, healthcare, education, and agriculture. Now in its eighth year, the TIA has grown into the most esteemed accolade in the ICT space, recognizing organizations, individuals, governments,…

Amazon Web Services (AWS) recently saw a surprising leadership shift as Adam Selipsky stepped down from his role as CEO, with Matt Garman, a long-time company insider, succeeding him. Garman, who joined Amazon as an intern in 2005 and played a key role in the development of early AWS products, most recently held the position of Senior Vice President for AWS sales, marketing, and global services. In a recent interview, Garman shared that he has not implemented significant organizational changes yet, as AWS is already performing well. However, he emphasized the importance of focusing on startups and rapid innovation as…

ZainTECH, the integrated digital solutions arm of Zain Group, has entered into a strategic partnership with DATANUUM, a leading customer data enrichment, engagement, and retention platform for retailers and healthcare businesses. The collaboration is set to provide innovative solutions to drive customer data-driven growth and retention for businesses across the Middle East and beyond. This partnership will combine ZainTECH’s regional expertise in deploying compliant cloud infrastructures with DATANUUM’s advanced data management platform. Together, they will address the growing demand for data privacy and regulatory compliance, offering robust solutions for businesses seeking to securely manage customer relationships, improve engagement, and optimize…

Vodafone Group has announced plans to build a state-of-the-art logistics hub in Luxembourg to streamline the distribution of mobile and fixed network equipment across its European markets. The agreement was signed by Vodafone Group’s Chief Financial Officer, Luka Mucic, and Luxembourg’s Minister of the Economy, SME, Energy, and Tourism, Lex Delles. The 26,000 square meter facility, to be developed by MG Real Estate in Bettembourg Logistic Park, will enable faster and more efficient movement of essential equipment such as antennas and routers. Vodafone estimates that 88% of its European warehouses will be reachable from the new hub within 24 hours.…

The Africa Digital Economy Awards continues to be the premier platform for celebrating excellence and innovation in digitization, recognizing individuals and organizations at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation for nearly a decade. This year’s ADEA demonstrated the rapid advancements and immense talent driving Africa’s digital economy, continuing to spotlight individuals and organizations paving the way for the continent’s technological growth. The 9th edition of the Africa Digital Economy Awards (ADEA), often hailed as the ‘Oscars’ of Africa’s ICT industry, was held at the prestigious Emara Ole Sereni Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. The event celebrated the achievements of visionary leaders…

Oracle has unveiled a new AI-powered feature in Oracle Argus that automatically translates free-text safety case information into 30 languages, aiming to reduce the need for costly and time-consuming manual translations. This enhancement is designed to help pharmacovigilance teams meet regulatory reporting requirements more efficiently. Powered by Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) Language, which utilizes machine learning and customizable models, the feature enables quick and large-scale translation of safety case data. It also includes advanced text analysis, allowing the system to identify industry-specific terms such as drug names and symptoms. Seema Verma, Oracle’s Executive Vice President and General Manager of Health…

Mastercard is rolling out new offerings for its Canadian small business cardholders, enhancing its suite of tools and solutions through partnerships with leading brands such as Slack, Asana, FlexiRoam, and H&R Block. The development reiterated Mastercard’s commitment to supporting small businesses by providing innovative resources designed to help them grow. “At Mastercard, we’re continuing our long-standing support for small businesses with new resources to help entrepreneurs tackle real-world challenges with confidence,” said Nishant Raina, Vice President of Small & Medium-Sized Enterprises at Mastercard Canada. “With this expansion, we’re giving Small Business cardholders even more opportunities to scale efficiently at every…

Sky Broadband has become the UK’s only major provider offering a 24/7 switching support service, ensuring customers can speak with a real person at any time when moving to its network. The new service allows customers to receive support day or night, whether they’re dealing with scheduling conflicts or simply seeking assistance with their broadband switch. Under the new One Touch Switch process, switching broadband providers has become more streamlined. Customers need only inform Sky Broadband of their intention to switch, and the entire process will be handled by the provider, eliminating the need to contact their current provider. Sky…

Verizon Communications has named Santiago “Yago” Tenorio as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Senior Vice President of Strategy and Technology Enablement. Tenorio, who brings over 25 years of experience in the wireless industry, will lead Verizon’s next wave of technology innovation. He will report directly to Joe Russo, Executive Vice President and President of Global Network and Technology. “As we continue advancing our 5G and 5G-advanced network builds, now is the time to focus on the future technologies Verizon will enable,” said Russo. “As we enter the next chapter, our priority is positioning Verizon for success by maintaining…