The Nigerian telecom sector is currently facing significant pressure due to the challenging economic environment. This week’s episode of the Techpoint Africa Podcast, hosted by Oluwanifemi Kolawole and Bolu Abiodun, delves into this issue, among other key developments in the African tech scene.
In response to rising financial difficulties, Nigerian telecom operators are considering adopting a load-shedding approach, similar to that used by the power sector. This strategy would allow them to manage their services more effectively while pushing for tariff increases to cope with the economic strain.
The idea of load-shedding in the telecom sector highlights the severity of the financial pressures these companies face. If implemented, it could lead to reduced network availability at certain times, particularly in areas with lower demand.
The National Association of Telecoms Subscribers of Nigeria (NATCOMS) has expressed concerns about the impact of this potential move. The president of NATCOMS warned that subscribers might blame the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for any resulting poor network quality. However, podcast host Bolu Abiodun argued that in reality, it’s usually the telecom providers themselves who bear the brunt of customer dissatisfaction.
Shifting focus from telecoms to the tech sector, the Lagos State government has recently announced an ambitious plan to tokenise real estate on the blockchain. This innovative approach aims to convert real estate assets into Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), making transactions more streamlined and accessible.
The project, set to roll out over 16 months, will be spearheaded by the Ministry of Science and Technology in collaboration with various agencies and partners. A budget of ₦500 million has been allocated for this initiative, which is expected to revolutionize real estate transactions in the state by making them more transparent and efficient.
In another major story, the podcast discussed the controversy surrounding new rates for gig drivers in Kenya. Many drivers have expressed outrage over the revised rates, which they argue are unfair when compared to the rates set by e-hailing platforms. The issue has sparked widespread debate, with drivers calling for better compensation that reflects the rising cost of living and the demands of their work.
As the tech landscape in Africa continues to evolve, the challenges facing key sectors like telecoms and real estate are becoming more apparent. The discussions on the Techpoint Africa Podcast highlight the need for innovative solutions to address these issues. Whether it’s through tariff adjustments, the adoption of blockchain technology, or fairer pay structures, it’s clear that stakeholders across these industries must work together to navigate the current economic challenges.
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