TechStream

Technology news around the ecosystem!

From Lagos to Nairobi

We give you summaries of happenings around tech, from developer stand-ups to the boardrooms.

  • Mavin’s new executive advise Artists to embrace AI

    As artificial intelligence changes the music industry worldwide, including AI-generated vocals and virtual idols, Nigeria’s music scene is slow to adapt.Despite being Africa’s top music market, few Nigerian artists and producers are using AI tools, which risks their global cultural influence in the long run. Nigeria’s music industry makes over $2 billion annually and has…

  • Niger waives right-of-way fees for telcos, introduces ₦500,000 one-time permit 

    The policy, formalised in a government gazette dated September 2, 2024, and signed by Governor Muhammed Umar Bago, is part of a broader effort to attract private-sector investment, extend internet access to remote communities, and digitise public services. Under the new policy, telecom operators will pay a one-time, non-refundable application fee of ₦500,000 ($311.80). To…

  • MTN and Airtel ink network-sharing agreement in Nigeria, Uganda to cut costs

    MTN Group and Airtel Africa have signed an agreement to share network infrastructure in Nigeria and Uganda, a strategic move aimed at reducing rising operational costs while expanding mobile coverage to underserved areas. The rare collaboration underscores a broader shift toward cost optimisation among African telecom giants as currency devaluation and economic headwinds strain profitability…

  • SA telco giant MTN valuates its Mobile Money Unit at $5 Billion

    Africa’s mobile money operators are making moves that give us an idea of how much their operations are worth. Valuating the sector has not been easy given several of the biggest mobile money operators are branches of other larger companies. A good case in point is South Africa mobile carrier MTN which recently revealed its…

  • Google to invest in $1bn in Africa’s digital transformation

    Google has invested $1 billion towards Africa’s digital transformation over the next five years. This support is targeted at revamping the continent’s digital transformation and focus on enabling internet access that is fast and affordable for the masses. In turn, helping them build helpful products while supporting entrepreneurship and small businesses. The announcement came at…

  • Surging Demand: Botswana’s Free WiFi Program Gains Massive Traction Amid Rising Data Costs

    In Botswana, the cost of internet subscriptions remains high. For example, 10GB of data may cost as much as P1400 ($103), a significant amount given the country’s minimum wage of P1500 ($111). This pricing structure has historically restricted access to the internet for many, especially the youth, despite growing demand. To read more click here