Weekly Tech Recap: Investments, Safety, Policy, and AI for Youths

This week brought big shifts across Africa’s tech space — from fresh international investment to government policy changes, and from safety innovations in ride-hailing to a massive AI skills programme for Nigerian youths. Here are the top four stories you should know:

Japan Bets $20M on African Startups

Japan has launched a new $20 million venture fund to back early-stage African startups, marking another chapter in its growing role in the continent’s innovation scene. The Uncovered Monex Africa Investment Partnership — created by Uncovered Fund and Monex Ventures — will target companies in fintech, logistics, sustainability, and mobility, with individual investments of up to $2 million. Beyond funding, the initiative aims to serve as a bridge, giving African startups access to Japanese corporations and technical expertise, opening new channels for global partnerships.

This marks a clear shift in Japan’s Africa strategy, which has moved from aid-driven engagement toward long-term commercial investment. In recent years, funds like Samurai Incubate Africa and Verod-Kepple Ventures have poured tens of millions into startups across sectors from agritech to e-commerce. Sony Ventures also entered the market with a $10 million fund for creative industries. Together, these initiatives signal that Japanese investors now see Africa not just as a recipient of support but as a frontier for global innovation.

Bolt Rolls Out Dashcam Feature in Nigeria

Ride-hailing giant Bolt has introduced a new dashcam feature for its drivers in Nigeria, in partnership with US-based Driver Technologies. The system turns a regular smartphone into a digital dashboard camera that records both inside and outside the car. Drivers will get one month of free access before moving to a discounted subscription of ₦4,810 ($3.50) per month. The recordings are stored securely in the cloud, ready to be used in cases of disputes, accidents, or insurance claims.

The feature addresses a long-standing demand from drivers for affordable dashcams, which had been out of reach due to hardware costs. Bolt says the solution builds on its existing safety tools, such as pick-up codes and Trusted Contacts, and ensures greater peace of mind for drivers and riders alike. For Driver Technologies, the launch represents an entry into emerging markets where low-cost, tech-enabled safety features can make a big difference.

Tinubu Ends 5% Telecoms Levy

Nigeria’s government has officially scrapped the controversial 5% excise duty on voice and data services, a move that settles months of uncertainty for telecom operators and consumers. The announcement came from Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), who confirmed that President Bola Tinubu ordered the full removal of the levy. He noted that Tinubu was adamant the burden should not fall on Nigerians, especially given the rising cost of digital services.

The duty had been suspended since July 2023 but nearly resurfaced in 2024 as part of lawmakers’ revenue plans. Industry groups strongly opposed the measure, warning it would drive up internet costs and slow digital inclusion. With the levy now permanently erased, operators and consumers alike are hopeful the decision will encourage wider adoption of affordable internet services and strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy.

UNICEF to Train 20,000 Katsina Youths in AI

In Katsina State, UNICEF has launched a major programme to train 20,000 youths in artificial intelligence, working with Isa Kaita College of Education and the Federal Ministry of Education. Training began with 700 lecturers and facilitators, who will then pass on knowledge to their students, creating a multiplier effect across the state. The programme covers three levels — Foundation, Medium, and Master — and will award Microsoft-backed certificates to participants who complete the courses.

Organisers say the initiative is about more than digital literacy; it’s about preparing young Nigerians to responsibly use AI in education, work, and entrepreneurship. Many participants have already described the training as “life-changing,” particularly for out-of-school youths who may gain access to new career opportunities. By focusing on teachers first, UNICEF hopes to accelerate knowledge transfer and ensure that the next generation in northern Nigeria is not left behind in the global AI race.