Topic · Baobab Pulse
Technology
Startups, digital infrastructure, and AI in Africa.
Must Read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago
Artificial intelligence and the evolving value of human competence
Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing the value of human competence by reducing the cost of producing knowledge while increasing the importance of judgment. Historically, expertise was linked to access to information and experience, which required significant effort and time. AI now allows for rapid generation of business strategies, literature reviews, campaign concepts, and financial report summaries across various industries, making the mechanics of knowledge production significantly easier. However, the ability to evaluate knowledge and exercise sound judgment becomes more valuable. While AI democratizes access to intelligence, it does not democratize competence, which is built through exposure to uncertainty, decision-making with incomplete information, and understanding consequences and trade-offs. AI excels at pattern recognition and predicting statistically likely responses, but prediction differs from judgment. Judgment determines appropriateness, decides if history applies, and accepts responsibility for choices, whereas prediction identifies probability and generates possibilities. Context, which includes timing, culture, stakeholder expectations, and individual circumstances, remains a crucial and less transferable dimension of intelligence. The fluency of AI's communication can be mistaken for sound reasoning, making the ability to distinguish between the two a critical professional skill. AI also makes expertise less visible but more valuable, shifti
11 min read
Must Read🇬🇦Gabon Review·12 hours ago
Gabon's social media ban: civil society groups demand immediate lifting, citing constitutional violations and increased cybercrime
Six civil society organizations in Gabon, led by Patrice Thérence Mezui, are demanding the immediate lifting of the social media suspension, which has been in effect for five months. They argue that the decision by the High Authority of Communication HAC is unconstitutional, disproportionate, and an abuse of power. The groups, including the Network of Free Civil Society Organizations for Good Governance in Gabon ROLBG and SOS Prisoners, met on July 11 in Libreville to denounce the ban, which was implemented to combat "informational disorders, cyberbullying, and the dissemination of hateful content." The organizations contend that while they share the goals of a healthy digital space, the repressive method used has punished millions of citizens, small and medium-sized enterprises, startups, and informal sector actors who rely on these digital channels for their daily economic activities. They highlight that the ban has inadvertently led to a surge in cyberattacks and account hacking, as citizens resort to Virtual Private Networks VPNs to bypass restrictions, creating significant digital security vulnerabilities. Patrice Thérence Mezui warned that this widespread vulnerability could impact state systems, banking institutions, and other vital sectors. Legally, the groups cite Article 14 of the Constitution, Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples'
4 min read
🇹🇳Business News·15 hours ago
Tunisia ranks 110th globally in responsible AI index, lags behind African and regional peers
Tunisia ranks 110th out of 135 countries and jurisdictions in the 2026 Global Index on Responsible AI GIRAI, scoring 16.37 out of 100. This places Tunisia significantly below the global average of approximately 35 points and far behind European nations that lead the ranking. The index assesses public authorities' capacity to regulate AI, protect fundamental rights, ensure system transparency, and establish oversight and recourse mechanisms, rather than technological development or company performance. The data for the report covers November 1, 2023, to September 30, 2025. Tunisia's scores across the five dimensions of AI governance are: 19.22 for inclusion and diversity, 9.61 for ethics and sustainability, 13.46 for labor and skills, 23.52 for trust and security, and 16.04 for AI use in public services. Trust and security is the highest-rated dimension, while ethics and sustainability is the lowest. The country received a zero score for civil society engagement in AI governance. General conditions for responsible AI development, such as institutional, legal, and technical capacities, scored 49.22 out of 100. These results indicate that while Tunisia has some favorable conditions, they have not yet translated into effective public policies or control mechanisms. Globally, Norway leads the index with 75.26 points, followed by Italy 72.71 and Ireland 71.39. France is fourth 70.32, the Netherlands fifth 69.51, and Germany sixth 68.98. The UK is seventh 67.27, followed by Slovenia
6 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·15 hours ago
Digital disruption impacts media houses globally, prompting calls for corporate support
Media organizations worldwide are experiencing financial strain due to the digital transformation of news consumption and funding models. Nangula Shejavali, representing the Namibia Media Trust board, stated in Windhoek that the current media model is under significant pressure. She highlighted that digital disruption has altered information consumption, global platforms aggressively compete for advertising revenue, and misinformation spreads rapidly, often overshadowing verified reporting. Shejavali emphasized the increased need for quality journalism, as digitalization allows widespread content publication. She noted that trusted journalism serves as a reliable source for facts and accountability. Consequently, Shejavali called for corporations to support media houses. During the same event, The Namibian editor Johnathan Beukes announced the introduction of 'Good News' pages in the newspaper's daily coverage, aiming to highlight positive community and national initiatives. Shejavali expressed enthusiasm for this initiative, underscoring the importance of sharing positive stories.
3 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·15 hours ago
Anirep triples solar power output, boosts revenue, and plans further expansion
Alpha Namibia Industries Renewable Power Limited Anirep significantly expanded its solar generation capacity, nearly tripling electricity output from 23.1GWh to 68.1GWh in the 2026 financial year. This increase followed the commissioning of the 25MWp Moses Mague Garöeb Khan Solar PV Plant and refurbishment at the Otjiwarongo Solar PV Plant, raising installed capacity from 13MWp to 38MWp. Electricity sales rose by 60% to N$62.1 million, and total revenue increased by 36% to N$95.4 million. Gross profit climbed 43% to N$81.4 million, with operating cash flow turning positive at N$15.1 million. Recurring electricity sales, underpinned by long-term power purchase agreements with Namibia Power Corporation and Central North Regional Electricity Distributor until 2051, now account for 65% of total revenue. Despite a N$40.2 million non-cash impairment related to goodwill and power generation assets, the company states this accounting adjustment does not affect plant performance or cash generation. Managing director Iyaloo Ya Nangolo noted that the company's renewable energy platform has reached commercial scale and is now a cash-generative business. Anirep plans further expansion, including a 7.69MWp addition to its Otjiwarongo Solar PV Plant and Namibia’s first utility-scale 2MW/10MWh Battery Energy Storage System, which will increase installed capacity to approximately 46MWp and enhance grid stability.
2 min read
🇨🇮Abidjan.net·16 hours ago
TECNO launches CAMON Slim smartphone, emphasizing art-inspired design and AI features
TECNO announced on Monday, July 13, 2026, the launch of its new flagship smartphone, the CAMON Slim. Available in over 70 markets globally, the Chinese manufacturer is targeting customers who seek a "style accessory," highlighting the integration of artificial intelligence into its products. The device features a sleek 3D curved unibody chassis, measuring only 6.39 mm thick, and boasts IP69/IP68 water and dust resistance certifications. To differentiate itself, TECNO offers finishes inspired by art history, including a "New Mondrian" version with a photochromic back that reacts to UV rays to display geometric patterns. Other designs draw inspiration from crystalline textures "Prism Black" and "Jungle Green", Vincent Van Gogh's "The Starry Night" "Van Gogh Blue", or combine fiberglass with a matte texture "Burgundy Red". A key technical innovation is the "AI Mood Light" system, located on the back of the device, which comprises 354 mini-LEDs offering 55 customizable lighting effects that respond to events like calls, charging, or gaming. The camera system features a 50-megapixel Sony LYTIA™ 600 main sensor, optimized for night photography. TECNO stated that the CAMON Slim will be "soon available" in the Ivorian market, with specific pricing, exact release date, and available color options for Côte d'Ivoire to be announced in the coming days.
8 min read
Must Read🇩🇿Algérie360·16 hours ago
Gara Djebilet megaproject: Algeria's South-South water transfer engineering studies near completion
Engineering studies for Algeria's 1,400 km South-South water transfer project, designed to link Timimoun to Tindouf and supply the Gara Djebilet mining complex, are entering their final phase. This project is crucial for water security and industrialization in Algeria's Southwest. The engineering firm announced that the final phase, which includes topographic surveys, geotechnical soil investigations, and detailed study development, is 70% complete. Farid Djilali, director of the engineering firm, stated that the first two phases, involving data collection, solution identification, and technical option definition, are finished, and the project is on schedule. The studies are expected to conclude by the end of August, paving the way for administrative and technical procedures before construction begins. The main pipeline will span 1,300 to 1,400 kilometers, making it one of the country's longest water transfer conduits, complemented by a 600 km secondary network. The route originates from Ihraran in Ougrout Timimoun wilaya, crosses Béni Abbès and Béchar wilayas, and reaches Tindouf and the Gara Djebilet region. Three pumping stations will be built in Béni Abbès to maintain hydraulic pressure. This water transfer is vital for the Gara Djebilet iron ore deposit, which holds over 3.5 billion tons of iron ore. The project, set to launch in 2025, aims to reinforce drinking water supply for local populations, support agricultural development, and meet the substantial water needs of
4 min read
🇬🇦Gabon Review·16 hours ago
Gabon and TikTok discuss content moderation and digital platform governance, 4,352 accounts suspended
Gabon's Minister of Digital Economy, Mark-Alexandre Doumba, and TikTok regional officials met in Geneva to discuss digital platform governance. This meeting follows the suspension of social media in Gabon in February 2026. TikTok reported removing 23,504 sensitive content items in the first quarter of 2026, including 13,930 related to the safety and well-being of minors and 10,784 concerning regulated goods, services, and activities. The platform also stated that 17,225 items of sexualized content and 12,883 related to sexual or physical abuse of minors were removed. TikTok claims 99.8% of infringing content was removed before user reports, and 92.9% before being viewed. Additionally, 97.2% of removals occurred within 48 hours, and 4,352 accounts were permanently suspended. Both parties agreed to continue their close collaboration for 12 months to ensure TikTok's compliance with new Gabonese legal provisions. The discussions also addressed mental health protection for youth, disinformation, cyberbullying, and hate speech.
3 min read
🇱🇾Libya Herald·17 hours ago
Libyan Business Council to host presentation on Pure Core project for local activated carbon production
The Libyan Business Council LBC will host a presentation on the Pure Core project, which aims to produce activated carbon locally from agricultural resources and waste. The LBC states this initiative aligns with its commitment to sustainable projects that offer positive environmental impact, economic diversification, and local resource utilization. The presentation, scheduled for Thursday, July 16, at the LBC's Tripoli headquarters, is open to members including business owners and companies in the date and palm sectors, various industries, health, water treatment, solar energy, and oil and gas. It will cover the project's concept, technologies, and investment opportunities. The Pure Core project was selected by the Hult Prize platform as one of 80 projects from approximately 18,000 global entrepreneurial submissions. Activated carbon has diverse industrial applications, including water treatment, juice production, and the manufacturing of filters and disinfection products, alongside other industrial, health, and environmental uses.
1 min read
🇿🇼NewsDay Zimbabwe·17 hours ago
Econet AI launches major recruitment drive for over 100 AI engineers
Econet AI, a subsidiary of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, has initiated a significant recruitment drive to hire more than 100 engineers. This effort is aimed at accelerating the deployment of its artificial intelligence strategy. The company anticipates this to be one of the largest intakes of engineers by a single private company in Zimbabwe in recent years. Successful candidates will undergo intensive AI training before being assigned to roles in product development, customer support, and enterprise solutions. Econet AI has already received applications from engineers in Zimbabwe and Zimbabwean professionals working abroad. This recruitment is the first phase of a broader strategy to expand AI adoption across Zimbabwe by providing AI-powered solutions to businesses and organizations. Some engineers will serve as advisors within these companies. Econet AI chief executive Navdeep Kapur stated the company is seeking graduates in electrical engineering, electronics, computer science, and robotics, including those with honors, master’s, and doctoral qualifications. Kapur noted that over 70 positions are currently being onboarded, with plans for further expansion. The initial focus is on recruiting engineers for AI product development, with additional roles expected as the business grows. This recruitment highlights the increasing investment in artificial intelligence by Zimbabwean companies due to rising demand for AI-driven products, automation, and digital transformation services.
5 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·18 hours ago
NNPC aims to build energy ecosystem for Africa
The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Bayo Ojulari, has stated the company's commitment to evolving beyond oil and gas production. NNPC Ltd. aims to become a platform that connects investment, technology, policy, and talent to drive sustainable energy development in Nigeria and across Africa. Ojulari made these remarks while reflecting on NNPC Ltd.'s participation at the 2026 Nigeria Oil and Gas Energy Week, where the company showcased its strategy for strengthening partnerships and advancing the continent's energy sector. He emphasized that NNPC Limited is now viewed as an "ecosystem builder" rather than merely an energy producer, creating lasting value for Nigeria and Africa. This new direction will shape the company's approach to partnerships and investment across the energy value chain, accelerating Africa’s energy prosperity. The Federal Government considers the energy sector a critical driver of economic growth, with ongoing reforms designed to attract investment, boost oil and gas production, expand domestic gas utilization, and strengthen Nigeria's position as a leading energy hub in Africa. NNPC Ltd. is implementing many of these initiatives through strategic collaborations.
9 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·19 hours ago
Cran, MTC, and BoN urge vigilance against ongoing vishing scams in Namibia
Despite mandatory SIM registrations, Namibians are experiencing an increase in 'vishing' scams, prompting regulatory authorities, network providers, and financial institutions to advise vigilance. Vishing, or 'voice phishing', involves scammers using phone calls to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, transferring money, or granting account access, primarily through psychological manipulation. Consumers frequently lose money and personal data, with police reports confirming ongoing incidents, including two cases documented in the past two weeks. The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia Cran, Mobile Telecommunications Limited MTC, and the Bank of Namibia BoN emphasize that while new registration requirements enhance accountability, they do not fully address advanced social engineering tactics. Cran spokesperson Mufaro Nesongano notes that mandatory SIM registration links SIM cards to verified identities but cannot completely eradicate scams, serving mainly to aid law enforcement. MTC stressed that it is not liable when customers voluntarily provide banking PINs, one-time passwords, or identification details to scammers. BoN spokesperson Josefina Oskar states that SIM registration is only one part of a broader fraud prevention framework and does not solely prevent vishing or financial fraud. Oskar calls for coordinated action among financial institutions, mobile network operators, Cran, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to strengthen fraud pre
3 min read
🇿🇼NewsDay Zimbabwe·20 hours ago
Zimbabwean tech startup launches digital loadboard for southern African road freight logistics
A Zimbabwean tech startup has introduced a new digital loadboard designed to streamline road freight logistics across southern Africa. This development aims to enhance efficiency within the region's transportation sector.
1 min read
🇨🇮Abidjan.net·1 day ago
First Vibeathon in Côte d'Ivoire showcases young AI innovators
The first Vibeathon Côte d'Ivoire, an artificial intelligence competition, was held on July 11, 2026, at the Alassane Ouattara Ivorian-Korean ICT Cultural Sports Center in Abidjan-Cocody. The event gathered students, developers, and digital enthusiasts to innovate for a sustainable and inclusive future using AI, focusing on sectors like agriculture, energy, transport, and natural resources. Out of 408 applicants, 100 young talents, forming 20 teams, were selected for the Vibe Coding challenge. Team FOR MIND won first place with "Transit CI," an application connecting formal and informal transportation. CODING TEAM placed second, and AGRI FEDAG took third. Kounandi Stéphane Coulibaly, Director of Innovation, Startups, and Private Sector, representing the Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, praised the initiative and encouraged its continuation to develop digital skills among Ivorian youth. He emphasized that the competition provides practical experience and understanding of AI's potential, fostering future startups. The national AI strategy, he noted, focuses on skill development, specialized engineer training, research, innovation structuring, and creating local solutions. Co-organizer Nelly Ossey stated that Vibeathon aims to make AI accessible, enabling young Africans to create solutions adapted to their realities. She highlighted the environmental theme's relevance to Côte d'Ivoire's economy, particularly agriculture. Ossey announced that Vibeathon
11 min read
Must Read🇩🇿Algérie360·1 day ago
Algeria becomes third largest helium supplier to the US, surpassing China
Algeria has emerged as a significant player in the global helium market, becoming the third-largest supplier to the United States between 2021 and 2024. During this period, Algeria supplied 10% of US helium imports, trailing Canada at 47% and Qatar at 28%, but surpassing China's 5%. This rise is attributed to increasing global demand, geopolitical shifts, and disruptions in traditional supply chains. The country holds the fourth-largest helium reserves globally, with approximately 8 billion cubic meters and an annual production of 11 million cubic meters. The state-owned company Sonatrach aims to further capitalize on this potential. The global helium market has experienced instability since February, driven by geopolitical developments in the Middle East and trade tensions between the US and China, leading to a 50% increase in helium prices. The halt of Qatari exports and reduced Chinese supply have prompted international buyers to seek new, stable sources, with Algeria benefiting from this reconfiguration. Algerian helium is a byproduct of natural gas extraction, providing a competitive advantage. Helium is a strategic resource critical for advanced industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, medical imaging, and artificial intelligence, which require large volumes for cooling and purification. Algerian authorities, including the President of the Republic, are focused on strengthening the country's presence in the international helium market.
3 min read
🇲🇦Le Matin·2 days ago
Noor Ouarzazate III solar power plant experiences new technical shutdown
The Noor Ouarzazate III solar power plant has experienced another technical shutdown after a routine inspection on June 22 revealed a molten salt leak. This incident occurred despite the plant operating in a "conservative" mode since its restart on April 5, 2025, following repairs to the initial tank. Although a new tank had been completed and auxiliary infrastructure was being finalized, a decrease in molten salt volume and localized temperature increases under the tank's base and foundations were observed. Data analysis from the preceding two months had not indicated any anomalies in monitored parameters such as temperatures, pressures, flows, and vibrations. At the time of the incident, the plant was operating with a limited salt level of 2.3 meters and a temperature below 520 degrees Celsius. Safety measures were implemented to protect personnel and equipment. The duration of this shutdown is currently undetermined but could extend until the end of October to allow for necessary technical inspections and repairs. This follows a major shutdown in February 2024, which idled the 150-megawatt plant for fourteen months before its resumption in April 2025.
1 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 days ago
Digital payments drive Nigeria's $11 billion food industry expansion
Digital payment infrastructure is accelerating growth in Nigeria's $11.09 billion food service industry, according to a new report by fintech company Moniepoint. The study, titled "What It Takes to Feed Nigeria Every Day: The Payment Story Behind Its Food Service Industry," highlights how real-time payments, business management tools, and data-driven financial services are transforming the sector. Digital infrastructure has resolved issues like settlement delays, unreliable confirmation, and inaccessible credit, moving the industry from a cash-based model to a more connected commercial ecosystem. The Nigerian food service market, which includes traditional restaurants, delivery platforms, and cloud kitchens, is projected to reach $19.31 billion by 2030. Moniepoint's Group Chief Executive Officer, Tosin Eniolorunda, emphasized the integration of payments with inventory, procurement, and growth plans. Digital payment histories are also enabling small and medium-sized food operators, particularly women-owned businesses which constitute 86.8% of the sector, to access financing by providing reliable revenue patterns to lenders. Tools like Moniebook and Orda are helping businesses integrate payments, inventory, and operational reporting, allowing them to track stock, reduce losses, and scale. The adoption of cashless payment methods has led to a 2,823% increase in quick-service restaurant terminal usage on Moniepoint's platform, with food and beverage businesses being the second-la
11 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 days ago
Apple sues OpenAI over alleged trade secret theft for hardware development
Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, accusing the artificial intelligence company of stealing trade secrets to develop its own consumer hardware device. The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in San Jose, California, alleges that OpenAI aggressively poached Apple employees and extracted confidential information. This legal action marks an escalation in tensions between the two companies, which had previously partnered in 2024 to integrate ChatGPT into Apple's products. Apple claims that OpenAI, through its employees and business partners, has been stealing its trade secrets and confidential information. The complaint specifically names OpenAI, its hardware subsidiary io Products, and two former Apple employees, Tang Yew Tan, now OpenAI's chief hardware officer, and engineer Chang Liu. Apple is seeking damages and an injunction to prevent OpenAI from using its confidential information. The company stated that this lawsuit was necessary after OpenAI failed to address concerns raised in February. Apple alleges that Tan, who spent 24 years at Apple, used confidential project code names during OpenAI job interviews to inquire about unreleased Apple products and instructed Apple employees to bring physical components to interviews for "show and tell" sessions. Apple claims that approximately 400 OpenAI employees are former Apple staff and that OpenAI's hardware business is built on misappropriated trade secrets.
2 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 days ago
President Tinubu approves upgrade of Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, to specialized university
President Bola Tinubu has approved the upgrade of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, to the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology, Nasarawa. This decision, announced by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, aims to strengthen technical education and boost Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. The upgrade aligns with the administration’s commitment to developing human capital and unlocking the nation's solid minerals potential. The approval follows a proposal from Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District, who advocated for a specialized institution to leverage Nasarawa State's advantages in the solid minerals sector and support Nigeria's industrialization. The new university will offer specialized education and research in mining, engineering, mineral processing, metallurgy, manufacturing, and emerging technologies, producing a skilled workforce for value addition and technological advancement. This move reflects President Tinubu’s determination to align tertiary education with national development priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda. The President has directed the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission, and other relevant agencies to initiate the conversion process, reaffirming his administration's commitment to investing in education as a strategic driver for economic growth, innovation, job creation, and national prosperity.
2 min read
Must Read🇧🇫Lefaso.net·3 days ago
Cameroonian invention IntelliBra could reduce breast cancer screening costs by 98%
Four young Cameroonian engineers, Anzia Juvis, Fadimatou Djouldé, Guillaume Ndzié, and Fabrice Ndzié, have developed IntelliBra, a portable device that combines ultrasound, thermal imaging, and artificial intelligence for early detection of breast anomalies. This innovation aims to address the significant financial barrier to breast cancer screening in Cameroon, where costs can range from 35,000 to 150,000 CFA francs. IntelliBra is designed to reduce the cost of screening to approximately 3,000 CFA francs, making it significantly more accessible for women. The high cost of screening often leads to delays in diagnosis, which can be critical given that early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes for breast cancer. In 2022, Cameroon recorded over 4,200 new cases and nearly 2,300 deaths from breast cancer. The IntelliBra has received recognition, including awards at the National ICT Innovation Week in Cameroon and the POESAM 2026 Orange Social Entrepreneur Prize for Africa and the Middle East. The creators emphasize that the true value of IntelliBra lies not just in its technological integration, but in its ability to make essential diagnostic information accessible to more women, thereby shifting the diagnostic process closer to them rather than requiring extensive effort and expense on their part.
6 min read
Must Read🇲🇦Le Matin·3 days ago
Countering malicious AI use in elections: a multi-layered approach for 2026
Hicham El Amrani discusses strategies to combat the malicious use of AI, particularly deepfakes, in the context of the 2026 elections. He emphasizes that no purely technical solution exists, advocating for a multi-layered approach centered on human analysis, monitoring, and methodology. The first layer involves automated forensic detection of synthetic content, though its effectiveness against real-world deepfakes is limited, with performance dropping by 45-50% in videos, audio, and images. This is due to an arms race where detection constantly lags behind generation. The second, more promising layer, focuses on certifying authentic content through standards like C2PA and Content Credentials, which embed cryptographically signed manifests into files. While adopted by major players like Adobe, Microsoft, and the BBC, its widespread adoption by device manufacturers and platforms is crucial for its full potential. The core of the defense, however, lies in monitoring and Open Source Intelligence OSINT. Monitoring acts as an early warning system, involving continuous, automated surveillance of platforms, filtering, anomaly detection, and real-time alerts to human analysts. Human qualification is irreplaceable for determining if a signal is noise, legitimate organic activity, or an operation requiring investigation. The goal is to detect operations before they go viral, as the window for effective action is often hours or minutes. OSINT then takes over for verification and attribut
15 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·3 days ago
Namibian competition winner attends Russian youth nuclear forum
Namibia was represented at the Obninsk New 2026 International Youth Forum, a leading international youth nuclear forum in Russia, which focused on developing a skilled workforce for the global nuclear power industry. The event hosted over 700 participants from 85 countries and high-level delegations from 10 nations, with thousands more joining online. The forum's agenda included discussions on youth engagement in the nuclear industry, international cooperation projects, and Obninsk's role in a global network of young nuclear leaders, alongside expert panel discussions. Noble Eiaseb from Namibia, founder and executive director of the Association of Young Generation in Nuclear of Namibia, was among the winners of the Atoms Empowering Africa video contest, a Rosatom educational initiative. Eiaseb stated his participation was driven by his belief in nuclear technologies' transformative role in addressing energy security, climate resilience, education, and industrial development in Africa. He valued the opportunity to engage with international experts and young professionals, exchange knowledge, and gain insights into advanced nuclear technologies and global cooperation. Rosatom director general Alexey Likhachev emphasized the mission to train qualified specialists for the nuclear industry, highlighting the need for a robust international education system in response to the world's increasing reliance on nuclear power.
2 min read
🇿🇼NewsDay Zimbabwe·3 days ago
Zimbabwe commissions honey testing laboratory to boost export competitiveness
Zimbabwe has commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to enhance its export competitiveness. In other news, Caledonia Mining received notification from BlackRock regarding an increased interest in the company. ART operations were impacted by power outages and raw material shortages, with exports and paper division volumes declining by 6% and 26% respectively in the third quarter to June 2022. The Bulawayo council warned of a 10-day water supply disruption, and the High Court blocked an illegal office park development in Borrowdale Estate. Harare reportedly lost over US$1 million in suspicious break-ins. Additionally, Zimbabwe plans to translocate zebras, giraffes, and hyenas to Equatorial Guinea.
1 min read
🇿🇼NewsDay Zimbabwe·3 days ago
Kei cars flood Zimbabwe's streets amid debate on safety versus fuel economy
Thousands of Japanese kei cars, including models like the Suzuki Wagon R and Nissan Dayz, are increasingly common in Zimbabwean cities such as Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare. These ultra-compact vehicles, priced between US$6,500 and US$8,500, are favored by budget-conscious commuters, young families, and e-hailing drivers due to their exceptional fuel efficiency, often exceeding 20 kilometers per liter. For many, these cars offer an essential economic lifeline in a turbulent economy with fluctuating fuel prices. For example, one commuter noted a significant reduction in weekly fuel expenses after switching to a Suzuki Wagon R. However, a debate has emerged among motorists and road safety experts regarding the safety implications of these vehicles. Kei cars are designed under Japanese domestic regulations for low-speed urban commuting, featuring thin body panels, minimal crumple zones, and lightweight structural frames. Automotive safety analyst Michael Chideme warns that these vehicles offer little protection in collisions with larger vehicles on Zimbabwean highways, potentially leading to fatal outcomes. Older or base-model imports often lack modern safety features like Electronic Stability Control and advanced traction control, making them prone to rollovers due to their high center of gravity and short wheelbase. Opponents argue that spending an additional US$1,500 to US$2,000 for a sturdier used hatchback or sedan, such as a Toyota Vitz or Honda Fit, offers a safer investme
7 min read