• UNDP, Africell partner to boost UniPods connectivity in Sierra Leone, Gambia

• Africell to supply high-speed internet, 4G MiFi and IoT tools

• Initiative supports Timbuktoo goal to scale African startups, jobs

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and telecom operator Africell announced a partnership last week to improve internet access at University Innovation Pods (UniPods), hubs that support young entrepreneurs in Sierra Leone and The Gambia. The initiative is part of Timbuktoo, a UNDP-led programme aimed at boosting innovation and investment in African startups.

Under the deal, Africell will provide UniPods with high-speed internet, 4G MiFi devices and Internet of Things (IoT) tools, helping young innovators access the digital resources needed to develop, test and scale their products commercially. This infrastructure will complement the training and acceleration programmes already offered at the hubs.

“This collaboration plays to everyone’s strengths by combining Africell’s connectivity expertise with UNDP’s innovation network. By equipping the UniPods in Sierra Leone and The Gambia with Africell’s signature internet services, we are investing in young Africans and helping to turn raw talent into successful enterprise,” said Ziad Dalloul, CEO of Africell Group. 

The partnership aims to reduce technical barriers that can prevent entrepreneurs from turning ideas into viable products. Complementary programmes include training in robotics, entrepreneurship and digital skills, supporting the initiative’s long-term social impact.

Timbuktoo aims to mobilise $1 billion to improve 100 million livelihoods and create 10 million new decent jobs, with a focus on helping African startups sustain growth and develop new technologies.

Adoni Conrad Quenum