This Week on Techstoriex: Africa’s Digital Transformation in Focus

Welcome to this week’s edition of “This Week in Techstoriex” where we bring to you 5 top and exciting news covered in Techstoriex this week. This week we’re diving into key developments around data privacy, AI grants, internet connectivity, revenue shifts, and scholarships opportunities aimed at empowering young Africans. Let’s get into details!

Experts Push for Unified Data Privacy Laws Across Africa

Data protection experts are urging African countries to harmonise their scattered data privacy regulations to address growing concerns over artificial intelligence (AI) and cross-border data exchanges. During a webinar titled “The State of Data Privacy in 2025: Trends, Challenges, and Best Practices,” hosted by Digital Jewels Africa, speakers emphasised the need for unified policies to boost innovation and ensure better data management.

Kenya’s Deputy Data Protection Commissioner, Oscar Otieno, noted that conflicting laws across the continent stifle innovation. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s NDPC Head of Research, Dr Tolulope Plus-Fadipe, highlighted efforts to gather 30 Data Protection Authorities from various African countries to tackle AI-related privacy challenges.

The discussions also addressed the ethical concerns of AI adoption, particularly the lack of transparency in automated credit-scoring systems. Stakeholders agree that regional harmonisation must precede a continent-wide framework for effective data protection.

Meta Launches AI Grant for African Innovators

Meta, in partnership with Data Science Africa, has launched the Llama Impact Grant to empower startups and researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative aims to support AI-driven solutions across various sectors like health, science, and agriculture, offering $20,000 grants to successful applicants.

Balkissa Ide Siddo, Meta’s Public Policy Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted AI’s potential to transform lives by enhancing innovation and productivity. With over 800 applications received globally since October 2023, Meta’s Llama Impact Grants continue to attract ambitious innovators eager to create impactful projects.

Starlink Becomes Kenya’s Seventh-Largest Internet Provider

Elon Musk’s Starlink has climbed to become Kenya’s seventh-largest internet service provider within just six months of joining the market. With 19,146 users, Starlink’s rapid growth highlights the rising demand for satellite broadband in regions underserved by fibre networks.

Despite regulatory challenges, Starlink continues to expand its services by improving latency and introducing affordable plans. However, concerns about potential market disruption from local ISPs remain.

MTN Nigeria Loses Top Place in Revenue

We also covered in Techstoriex this week that; for the first time since 2019, MTN Nigeria has lost its position as the highest-earning subsidiary of the MTN Group. The company reported a post-tax loss of ₦400.4 billion ($260.2 million) in 2024 due to foreign exchange losses and inflation.

The revenue decline has prompted the company to adjust its strategies while hoping to regain its leading position. However, experts believe MTN Nigeria must continue enhancing its services to stay competitive.

Bybit, AltSchool Africa Launch $100K Scholarship for African Youths

Bybit has partnered with AltSchool Africa to launch a $100,000 scholarship aimed at training young Africans in tech skills. The initiative, called Bybit Academy, will offer 1,000 scholarships covering tuition, mentorship, and hands-on projects to help youths prepare for the digital economy.

The collaboration aims to bridge the digital skills gap across Africa, making it more inclusive and providing opportunities for underserved communities to gain practical skills.

Join us again next week for another exciting of “This Week in Techstoriex.”