Themed “Kigali Hacks the Future”, it was a 12-hour marathon of creativity and coding, featuring 63 students divided into 12 teams showcasing innovative projects, and promoting collaboration within the tech community.

The student-led hackathon focused on promoting community engagement, improving tech exposure for local high school students, and providing a space to engage with industry experts.

Attended by high school students, mentors, and various tech experts, as well as representatives from the Ministry of ICT and Innovation and other senior full-stack developers.

Bruno Blaise Mudacumura, a student at Lycée de Kigali who was one of the organisers, explained that high school students in tech needed a platform like a hackathon that fosters interaction and idea sharing among themselves and their mentors.

“This is the first time we’re hosting such an event for high school students, and we want to address the neglect many students face by creating an opportunity for them to showcase their skills,” he said.

Mudacumura also added this was an opportunity for them to showcase the expertise of high school students, and to provide a chance for participants to interact with the country’s top experts in tech.

During the hackathon, students worked on different projects in their respective groups, tackling various challenges from health solutions to virtual reality.

Elisa Giramata, one of the students, expressed how lucky she is to have an opportunity to participate, adding that more effort is needed so that many students can have a chance to be part of the next one.

While presenting their project, only three groups were honoured for their innovative solutions.

Don Durkheim, leader of the first-place team, expressed his excitement and gratitude for winning the hackathon, adding that the 12 hours spent were a thrilling journey but worthy.

“This is a huge milestone for me and my team; we learned and collaborated, and this experience has shown me that age is not a barrier in tech; it’s about having the right mindset and passion for solving problems,” Durkheim said.

Nkaka Manzi Fabrice, a senior full-stack software developer, underlined the event’s impact on the youth, noting that this kind of exposure doesn’t only provide them with the skills they need, but also inspires them to continue pursuing tech careers.

“It’s impressive to see young people so engaged with technology to this extent. I believe that with this enthusiasm and innovations displayed here, Rwanda’s future in technology is promising,” Nkaka added.

Victor Muvunyi, Senior Technologist at the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, praised the student’s creativity and technical skills, highlighting that their ideas were aligned with Rwanda’s vision for technological advancement.

“The solutions presented were exceptional, and it’s clear that these young innovators are in tune with the country’s goals and are poised to drive future technological growth,” Muvunyi noted.

African participants at the Forum on China, Africa Digital Cooperation were hosted Monday (Jul. 29) by the Chinese ministry of Industry and Information Technology in Beijing.

Senegal’s minister of telecommunications looked forward to the changes scheduled over the next three years.

“This digital cooperation between China and Africa is win-win, and will bring benefits to our countries, the African continent and China through the setting up of innovative infrastructures,” Alioune Sall said.

The parties jointly issued an action plan which includes the implementation of 10 digital transformation demonstration projects and the training of at least 1,000 professionals in the digital field.

This initiative aims to strengthen partnerships in digital policy, infrastructure, cutting-edge innovation, digital transformation, security, and talent nurturing over the next three years.

In recent years, China has struck digital cooperation deals with numerous African governments.

According to the China Academy of ICTs, Chinese firms are involved in bolstering network infrastructures on the continent, benefiting over 900 million people.

These include the deployment of undersea cables by Chinese companies and the lanch of data centers.

features that will allow content creators on its platform in Kenya to earn revenue from short-form videos through advertising, the social network has announced.

The tech multinational on Tuesday unveiled two monetisation options: in-stream ads that appear before, in the middle or after videos posted on Facebook, and ads on reels that accompany short videos posted on the platform.

Kenya is now one of 12 African countries where Meta shares ad revenue with creators. Others include Egypt, Nigeria, Rwanda, Ghana and the Seychelles.

“This expansion will empower eligible creators in the vibrant creative industry in Kenya to earn money, whilst setting the bar high for creativity across the world and making Meta’s family of apps the one-stop-shop for all creators,” said Moon Baz, Meta’s global partnerships lead for Africa, Middle East and Turkey.

The journey to extend Meta’s monetisation capabilities to Kenya began in March when Meta’s President of Global Affairs, Nick Clegg, visited the country and met with President William Ruto.

The plan was to roll out the features on both Facebook and Instagram by June, but Instagram creators may have to wait longer as Meta has only announced monetisation on Facebook.

To qualify for the new programme, creators need to have at least 5,000 followers on Facebook and more than 60,000 minutes of total watch time in the last two months.

Facebook is currently the most popular social media platform in the country, used by at least 52 per cent of Kenyans aged 15 and above, according to the latest statistics from the Communications Authority of Kenya.

Other popular Meta platforms in Kenya include WhatsApp, which is used by 48.5 per cent of the population, and Instagram, which is used by 11.5 per cent of the population.

Currently, only YouTube and X share ad revenue with creators.

The overarching goal of tech governance and policy regulation is to strike a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding public interests. This ensures that technology benefits society while minimizing risks and negative impacts.

In Uganda, tech governance and policy regulation address various facets of technology use, including data privacy, cybersecurity, and ICT development.

For example, the National Information Technology Authority (NITA-U) was established by the government to oversee IT policy development and implementation, manage IT projects, provide guidance on IT governance, and ensure adherence to national IT standards.

Similarly, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) was created in 1997 to regulate sectors such as telecommunications, data communications, broadcasting, postal services, radio communication, and infrastructure. The UCC is responsible for issuing licenses, monitoring service providers, and enforcing compliance with regulations.

To address issues related to computer misuse and electronic transactions, the government enacted the Computer Misuse Act. This law criminalizes unauthorized access, cyber harassment, and the dissemination of false information.

In addition, the Data Protection and Privacy Act of 2019 was introduced to regulate the collection, processing, and storage of personal data, aiming to protect individuals’ privacy.

These regulations and others reflect Uganda’s efforts to harness the benefits of technology while addressing associated challenges.

**The Role of User Consent in Tech Regulation: Terms, Conditions, and Cookies**

When setting up new devices or software, users frequently encounter prompts to accept terms and conditions or cookie policies. These practices are part of tech governance and policy regulations. By agreeing, users consent to the terms of data collection, processing, and storage.

Eng. Irene Kaggwa, former Executive Director of the UCC, emphasizes the importance of being cautious with data protection. She notes that while regulations like the Data Protection Act aim to safeguard personal information, users must still be vigilant about their data. “Even if the regulation is there, users need to be mindful about what they consent to. Sometimes, it’s unclear why an app needs access to certain information, like why a camera app might request access to your contacts,” she says.

Eng. Kaggwa also points out that regulation should prioritize consumer interests, including ensuring that consumers have meaningful choices. “It’s crucial for consumers to understand what they’re agreeing to when they accept terms and conditions. Whether it’s domestic or global regulation, it’s about protecting consumers and making sure they have choices,” she adds.

Terms and conditions are a global issue, and navigating the complexities of international digital services can be challenging. For instance, if a company based in one country provides services in another, resolving disputes can be difficult. This highlights the challenges posed by the internet’s borderless nature.

If a company is incorporated in Uganda, local authorities can address issues more straightforwardly. However, if the company operates internationally, addressing complaints becomes more complex. Fraud is a common problem, often perpetrated by individuals in different countries, which complicates the pursuit of justice.

**Global Efforts: The Global Digital Compact (GDC)**

An ongoing initiative under the United Nations, the Global Digital Compact (GDC), aims to establish an international framework for digital governance. This proposed compact seeks to create a shared vision for the use of digital technologies, ensuring they contribute positively to global public good while managing associated risks.

The GDC is being developed through a multi-stakeholder approach, involving governments, international organizations, the private sector, civil society, and academia. This inclusive process ensures that the compact addresses diverse perspectives and interests, reflecting the needs and concerns of all societal sectors.

**Looking Forward: Uganda’s Digital Transformation**

Uganda’s transition from an analog to a digital society has been profound. In the past, communication relied on landlines and postal services, transactions were conducted in cash, and information dissemination was limited to newspapers, radio, and face-to-face interactions.

Technological advancements have dramatically transformed this landscape. Mobile money services like MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money have revolutionized financial transactions, while digital communication platforms have become widespread. E-commerce has grown significantly, enabling businesses to reach broader markets and consumers to shop online.

Eng. Kaggwa reflects on this transformation: “I’ve been in this sector for many years, and the growth has been remarkable. From the early days of e-commerce to the widespread use of mobile money, the digital landscape has evolved rapidly. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital solutions, as people realized the benefits of online transactions and remote services.”

This shift towards digital solutions has enhanced access to information, streamlined operations, and fostered connectivity, marking a significant departure from Uganda’s analog past.

Uganda’s journey underscores the crucial role of tech governance and policy regulation. By establishing institutions like NITA-U and the UCC and enacting laws such as the Computer Misuse Act and the Data Protection and Privacy Act, the government has effectively balanced innovation with protection. These efforts ensure that technology serves the public good, enhances connectivity, and addresses challenges in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Patrick Ssonko, a Cyber Security Specialist at Fdss & LCA, elucidates the distinctions between cash and cashless economies.

“A cashless economy offers substantial advantages by enabling payments for goods and services without the necessity of leaving one’s location. In contrast to a cash economy, where transactions are executed with physical currency, a cashless system provides a greater degree of flexibility, allowing for transactions that were previously unattainable,” Ssonko explains.

In Uganda, there has been a significant rise in the use of mobile money as a primary payment method, leading to considerable expansion in the cashless economy.

According to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), the number of mobile money accounts surged to 32.3 million in 2022, reflecting an increase of 900,000 accounts from the previous year.

Cyber Security Specialist, Patrick Ssonko.

The transition to a cashless economy, particularly through mobile money, has significantly improved financial inclusion and provided considerable benefits to the average Ugandan. This is especially important given that many Ugandans struggle with financial literacy and have traditionally lacked access to personal banking services.

Mobile money has revolutionized the financial landscape by allowing Ugandans to conduct transactions digitally, eliminating the need for physical cash. This shift has facilitated a wide array of functionalities, including:

• Payment for goods and services
• Fund transfers across various networks and banks
• Bill payments
• Access to credit

The increasing acceptance of mobile money among businesses, particularly in the informal sector, has streamlined transaction processes. This transition not only simplifies transactions for individuals but also enhances efficiency and expedites payment processing for businesses.

The advent of the cashless economy has profoundly impacted the banking sector, ushering in a new era of financial transactions. Banks are increasingly embracing digital solutions, such as online banking platforms, mobile banking applications, and digital wallets. These technologies enable customers to manage their financial activities—such as transferring funds, paying bills, and overseeing accounts—directly from their smartphones or computers.

According to the UCC, mobile money accounts reached 32.3 million in 2022, marking a substantial increase of 900,000 accounts.

Furthermore, the cashless economy facilitates seamless transactions via credit and debit cards, allowing consumers to make purchases online and in physical stores without resorting to cash.

Cyber Threats

Despite the numerous advantages of a cashless economy, it introduces several significant risks, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity. As digital transactions become more ubiquitous, the risks of hacking, data breaches, and other cyber-attacks escalate, posing threats to personal and financial information.

The reliance on digital platforms for financial transactions heightens the vulnerability of both individuals and businesses to cybercrime. Such threats can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, identity theft, financial fraud, and other malicious activities.

Cybercriminals frequently target financial institutions and telecommunications companies, stealing money or sensitive information and demanding ransoms. Notable incidents include:

• In 2023, a hacking group infiltrated the systems of two major Ugandan banks, accessing customer data, including the account details of high-profile clients. The attackers obtained personal information such as names, identity numbers, and financial records, and demanded a ransom of USD 1 million. The banks opted not to pay and instead migrated to a backup data center managed by Raxio to secure the compromised data.
• In 2018, unauthorized access led to the theft of 2.6 billion shillings from Bionic Limited Systems, a company that operates a cloud-based mobile payment system. Other notable breaches include incidents involving MTN Uganda, dfcu Bank, and Centenary Bank, resulting in significant financial losses.
• In October 2022, Airtel was targeted by a cyber heist where hackers took control of a betting site, affecting 1,800 SIM cards and completing transactions through a scheme involving insiders.

These attacks have had severe repercussions on both the financial and telecommunications sectors, leading to substantial financial losses, data breaches, and reputational damage.

Enhancing Security

Ssonko asserts that, while a cashless economy is generally safer than a cash-based system, vigilance is essential.

“It is indeed much safer. The risk of theft and robbery is significantly reduced compared to dealing with physical cash,” he notes.

To enhance security in a cashless economy, Ssonko recommends the following measures:

• • Employ strong, unique passwords for all financial accounts.
  • Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) wherever available.
  • Exercise caution regarding phishing scams by avoiding suspicious links and attachments.
  • Ensure that all software is updated with the latest security patches.
  • Stay informed about common cyber threats and learn to recognize and mitigate them.
  • Utilize screen locks and encryption on devices that access financial information.
  • Promptly report any suspected fraudulent activity to the relevant financial institutions and authorities.

The annual Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (CPIA) report, which evaluates International Development Association (IDA) eligible nations based on their policy and institutional frameworks, highlights that high-speed internet in Sub-Saharan Africa could increase employment probabilities by 6.9% to 13.2%. Additionally, it could boost output per worker and reduce poverty.

The report emphasizes that the expansion of information technology could be transformative for the region, potentially leading to significant structural changes across economic activities.

IDA-eligible countries are defined as those with a gross national income per capita below a specified threshold, which was $1,315 for fiscal year 2024.

According to the report, digital technology could drive job creation through various channels. These include improving the matching of firms and workers, enhancing productivity, expanding market access, and reducing informational barriers.

Further, increased digitalization could streamline customs procedures across multiple authorities, facilitate knowledge sharing, and enhance intraregional trade—a significant opportunity for IDA-eligible countries.

The report notes that trade integration, exemplified by one-stop border crossings, has expanded considerably in recent years. Digital technologies have played a crucial role in facilitating rapid processing and coordination of trade administration.

Enhancing Fiscal Policies and Administrative Quality

Digitalization also has the potential to positively impact several CPIA criteria, including fiscal policy. Automating revenue collection can minimize human intervention, reducing opportunities for bribery and enabling extensive data collection. This, in turn, leads to better analysis and detection of tax irregularities.

Digital infrastructure offers a chance to address policy constraints, such as reducing corruption and boosting domestic revenue. For instance, Sub-Saharan African countries could potentially raise an additional $60 billion annually by improving property tax collection, similar to levels seen in industrialized nations. Togo, for example, has implemented a digital fiscal cadaster and reduced land registration fees, along with a communication strategy promoting the benefits of property taxes.

Digitalization can also enhance public administration. Countries like Ghana and Nigeria have introduced electronic procurement systems, while Kenya and Tanzania are integrating technology into the justice system. Burundi has digitalized approximately 80% of public sector personnel files, and the Central African Republic has launched mobile payments for government services.

The report underscores that technological advancements can significantly improve public administration by strengthening property and contract rights, enhancing public sector performance, and increasing executive accountability through robust civil society engagement.

However, a lack of supportive infrastructure remains a significant challenge. Half of Africa’s population faces issues with electrification, and despite representing one-fifth of the world’s population, Africa attracts only 3% of global energy investments, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

The report highlights that successful digital transformation will depend on widespread access to affordable energy. Frequent electricity outages hinder both domestic and foreign investments and adversely affect the productivity of existing firms.

Economic and Social Reforms

The report also notes that Sub-Saharan Africa managed relatively well in 2023, thanks to credible economic and social policy reforms. CPIA scores remained consistent with the previous two years, with more countries showing improvements compared to those experiencing downgrades.

Nonetheless, not all improvements are uniform. Governments facing budget constraints due to high debt service costs will need to work harder to attract private sector investments to drive economic growth. The report suggests that debt has become a more pressing threat to economic stability than international shocks.

Nicholas Woolley, the report’s main author, emphasizes that private sector investments need to increase following years of public sector-driven investment growth. With high interest rates and public debt limiting the public sector’s capacity, significant opportunities exist in trade and the digital economy.

The firm’s investment focus spans a broad spectrum of sectors, encompassing fintech, e-commerce, healthtech, software as a service (SaaS), and artificial intelligence (AI). Mikael Hajjar, reflecting on the unique position he occupies as the first Mauritanian to launch such a fund, emphasizes P1 Ventures’ commitment to supporting ambitious African entrepreneurs who are developing products and services catering to a regional or even global customer base.

Since its inception, P1 Ventures has deployed its capital into 29 early-stage ventures spanning ten different countries, including notable investments in companies like Money Fellows in Egypt and Reliance Health in Nigeria. Notably, the firm’s maiden investment was in the Algerian “super-app” Yassir, specializing in ride-hailing and last-mile delivery, which recently concluded a successful $150 million Series B funding round. More recently, P1 Ventures led a seed round for Gameball, a software company focused on gamifying loyalty and customer retention.

P1 Ventures benefits from the guidance of a distinguished advisory committee that includes Bernard Dalle, a founding member of Index Ventures, and Emil Michael, former Chief Business Officer at Uber.

The firm’s strategic emphasis lies in harnessing the potential of AI to drive progress across Africa, especially in industries like agriculture and FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) retail. They see AI as a means to overcome legacy infrastructure constraints, akin to how mobile money superseded traditional debit and credit card systems in the region. P1 Ventures has invested in Nkoloso, a company utilizing satellite imagery and AI to gather data and monitor agricultural land. This technology offers applications ranging from tracking crop acreage and yields for credit and insurance assessments to estimating the value of timber and carbon credits.

In the FMCG sector, P1 Ventures has backed a Senegalese startup employing computer vision, geolocation, and conversational AI technologies to collect and analyze data for brands and distributors. The firm envisions the potential expansion of this approach to other industries such as healthcare, consumer electronics distribution, and the creative economy.

Furthermore, P1 Ventures integrates AI into its deal-sourcing and support processes, recognizing the transformative potential of AI not only for the continent but also for venture capital distribution. Leveraging AI strategically, P1 Ventures aims to expand its reach in a region where information and data resources are traditionally limited.