Hey Techies,
Welcome to a brand new week, the best time to have a run-down of the Big5 Daily top gists in the African tech ecosystem.
Let’s go!
Microsoft has introduced Python Support for South African Azure software developers. This will enable developers to build software on the cloud using Python 3.6, rather than a server-based platform. The Azure experience will be end-to-end encrypted for developers, without having to leave Microsoft cloud. Cool right?
Again, RiseUp has acquired another company. The Egypt-based organizers of the RiseUp Summit have acquired Starterhub, an online startup community in the Middle East and Africa for an undisclosed sum. This comes shortly after purchasing tech media platform, Menabytes and its trackMENA initiative for tracking startup activities in the region.
Have you heard? On Saturday, Eluid Kipchoge made Kenya and the whole of Africa proud by finishing the Olympic Marathon in 1:59 hrs. In solidarity with the icon, Safaricom rebranded M-Pesa to ‘Eluid 159’ and availed internet services to over 3 million subscribers that viewed the event on YouTube. Great marketing strategy you would say!
In a bid to tackle forced displacement in Africa, the Refugees and Displaced Person division of the African Union seeks to sponsor 5 promising African tech solutions. The selected startups will attend a three-day prototype testing program in Kenya between 20th and 22nd of November. Interested applicants can apply here.
Great news! Two African startups were recognized and awarded at the Global SME Finance Forum. The startups are Jumo from South Africa and 4G Capital from Mauritius. The award was organized by the World Bank Group members, IFC and the SME Finance Forum.
Finally, we’ve got extra good news to ice your cake. Uber Boat services debuted in Nigeria on Friday 11th October 2019. The prestigious occasion was graced by Jide Sanwo-Olu the executive governor, Lola Kassim the General Manager of Uber West Africa, and other distinguished guests. Uber is in partnership with Texas Connection Ferries to operate the boat service in Lagos State.
It’s time to go. Stop by tomorrow for another edition of the Big 5!
Stay motivated and enjoy a beautiful week ahead.