Digital transition: how technology reshapes the future of urban services in West Africa
via SeneNews3 min read
The rapid urbanization in Africa presents new logistical, economic, and environmental challenges. In response, the integration of artificial intelligence and connected mobility solutions is becoming essential. This central theme brought together over 200 business leaders, public decision-makers, and tech experts on June 4 in Abidjan, during an innovation day initiated by a leading international ride-hailing and urban digital services provider. The event analyzed the impact of global technologies on local ecosystems, highlighting concrete initiatives for youth training and private sector support. Discussions focused on data-driven transportation transformation. Experts examined how route optimization and traffic prediction systems, originally developed for ride-hailing platforms, are now streamlining traffic in congested cities. Demonstrations of advanced mapping tools, virtual assistants, and autonomous delivery robots showed that technology is moving beyond theory to redefine urban flow management. Specialists emphasized adapting these advanced technologies to the structural realities of African markets to create value, employment, and rationalize energy consumption. The future of African tech also relies on human capital. Discussions highlighted the importance of preparing future talent for a rapidly changing market. This included the graduation ceremony for the first cohort of the "Yango Fellowship" technological excellence program, recognizing 20 young local talents. Beyo
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Former Senegalese international Gorgui Sy Dieng warmly welcomed the Lions of Teranga, Senegal's national football team, to the United States. The team, led by Pape Thiaw, was received by Dieng at "The Rock," the San Antonio Spurs' training center. This meeting highlights the pride and unity surrounding the Senegalese jersey as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup. Dieng expressed his honor in representing his country and offered his encouragement to the national team, emphasizing the symbolic connection between two generations united by their dedication to the national jersey and the Senegalese flag.
Must ReadA shooting incident in Kansas City, Missouri, on Saturday morning resulted in nine injuries. The event occurred on Troost Avenue, very close to the future training camp for the England football team and a short distance from their designated hotel for the upcoming World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19. Local authorities have indicated that none of the nine injured individuals are in life-threatening condition. The England squad was not in Kansas City at the time of the incident, as they are currently completing their preparations in Palm Beach, Florida. The team, led by Gareth Southgate, recently defeated New Zealand 1-0 and is set to play Costa Rica on Wednesday before relocating to Missouri. During the World Cup, England will compete in Group L alongside Croatia, Ghana, and Panama, though none of their group stage matches are scheduled to take place in Kansas City. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the circumstances of the shooting or any arrests made.
The 2026 World Cup, hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to be a highly followed global football event. However, a key question for fans in French-speaking Africa is how to watch the competition, as Canal+ is not among the official broadcasters in several markets. FIFA has assigned broadcasting rights in sub-Saharan Africa to specific entities, prioritizing regional groups and public channels over traditional paid packages like Canal+. In many countries, broadcasting relies on agreements between public channels and approved digital platforms. SeneNews will offer special coverage, including live text commentary on www.senenews.com and live video commentary, analysis, and real-time reactions on its YouTube channel, SeneNews TV. In Senegal, Radiodiffusion Télévision Sénégalaise RTS is announced as the main broadcaster, expected to air several matches, including those of the Lions, and major tournament games, accessible via its official digital platforms within a national framework. Regional broadcasters like New World TV hold rights for the entire competition across sub-Saharan Africa, offering comprehensive coverage through their TV packages and streaming services, with paid subscriptions for all 104 matches. The rise of digital platforms also transforms World Cup access, with streaming partners of official broadcasters allowing viewing on various devices. Some channels with rights also provide dedicated mobile apps for live or replay viewing, potentiall