Twitter ban lifted... So what?🤷♂️
Hello Venturer,
The Nigerian government has finally lifted the Twitter ban, and some of us are not quite sure how to feel about it. I mean, I'm glad that we can finally delete our VPN apps. I'm also happy for businesses that are finally coming back online. But there are a few matters of concern.
The first concern is the timing of this act: they lifted the ban just in time for election campaigns to kick off. Secondly, we don't know if this will be the end of internet censorship. If the government can easily flip the switch on Twitter, what stops them from doing it again?
Thirdly, internet restrictions are becoming a worrisome trend on the continent. Africa was the most censorship-intensive region in the world last year. Isn't that a smear on the continent's reputation, especially now that our tech sector is gaining prominence?
This week, we have a story on the evolving patterns of internet censorship in Africa and their impact on the internet economy.
Oluwatosin Ogunjuyigbe
Staff Writer, Ventures Africa
Internet censorships and Africa’s internet economy
Africa became the most censorship-intensive region in the world in 2021. Up to ten countries shut down social media. But the paradox is that Africa is gaining recognition as a tech hub. Read more
Here are three opportunities to identify a side gig this year
Africa is home to 25 of the world’s 27 low-income countries, as well as nearly half of the world’s lower-middle-income economies, including Nigeria, Ghana, Morocco, Kenya, and Egypt. For residents of these countries, side-gigs are a lifeline. Learn more
Agricultural trends to watch in Africa in 2022
Agriculture is critical to the African economy, accounting for 23 per cent of GDP and 49 per cent of employment. As the sector steadily moves toward a more technologically advanced form, here are some trends to watch out for on the continent. Read more
AGOA: What does the U.S decision to delist three African countries imply?
In 2019, African countries exported goods worth $8.4 billion to the US under AGOA. The agreement has helped participating countries develop products for US consumers, grow industries, and create jobs. But on January 1st, 2022, the US officially barred Ethiopia, Guinea and Mali from accessing the AGOA. Read more
New Mastercard podcast shows how financial inclusion is creating an equitable future for all
Hosted by award-winning journalist and news anchor Fifi Peters, ‘Journey to One Billion’ features Mastercard experts, business leaders, community champions and entrepreneurs from across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) and around the world, who are working together to build a more inclusive and sustainable digital economy where people and the planet can thrive. Read more
#VA NUGGET
Remember to stay safe!
