On the 1st and 2nd of August 2024, the prestigious Mestil Hotel in Kampala, Uganda, was abuzz with excitement as MTN Uganda successfully hosted the MTN ICT Expo 2024 . Themed “Accelerating Business Transformation with Digital Technology,” this landmark event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and key stakeholders to explore and celebrate the transformative power of digital technology.
A New Era of Innovation and Transformation
The MTN ICT Expo 2024 attracted attendees from various sectors, including MTN partners, media representatives, and ICT talents, showcasing MTN’s remarkable transition from a traditional telecommunications company to a leading technology provider. The event built on the success of the inaugural MTN ICT Solutions Conference in 2023 and was endorsed by the Ministry of ICT, further establishing MTN Uganda as a pioneer in technology solutions.
Panel Discussions and Keynote Addresses
The event featured insightful panel discussions on various topics, including IoT, cloud solutions, and unified communications. Highlights included a panel discussion on the “MTN API Economy: Driving Digital Innovation and Economic Growth in Uganda” and an interactive Q&A session that happened in the second breakout room with different panelists.
Dr. Amina Zawedde (PhD), Permanent Secretary of the Uganda Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, delivered an address on the second day, invited by MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge. Dr. Shikoh Gitau from Qhala delivered a compelling keynote address on “Accelerating Business Transformation with Digital Technology,” emphasizing the importance of digital innovation in driving economic growth.
MTN’s Commitment to Digital Transformation
Sylvia Mulinge, CEO of MTN Uganda, highlighted the company’s unwavering dedication to innovation, sustainability, and excellence in ICT. “MTN Uganda’s commitment to investing in countrywide network coverage, sustainable and green data centers across the country, and digital skills development for the young workforce aligns with our Ambition 2025 to lead digital solutions for Uganda and Africa at large,” said Mulinge. “We are proud to drive Uganda’s digital transformation and support both the private and public sectors with our cutting-edge technologies.”
Ibrahim Senyonga, General Manager of MTN’s Enterprise Business Unit (EBU), emphasized the vital role of digital technologies in driving efficiency, innovation, and growth in enterprises. “Our partnerships with leading companies such as Bayobab, Chenosis, Infobip, Galooli, Chrif Group, Cisco, and Microsoft have enabled us to offer a comprehensive range of enterprise solutions that cater to the unique needs of businesses,” said Senyonga. “The MTN ICT Expo is a testament to our commitment to enabling enterprises to thrive in the digital age.”
Showcasing MTN’s Technological Prowess
The Expo focused on four pivotal service areas:
- Cloud Solutions : Enabling businesses to store, manage, and process data through cloud-based platforms, enhancing scalability and reducing IT costs. Examples include MTN’s cloud storage services and data backup solutions.
- Unified Communications : Integrating various communication tools such as voice, video, messaging, and conferencing into a single cohesive system, improving collaboration and productivity. MTN’s solutions include VoIP services and virtual meeting platforms.
- Internet of Things (IoT) : Connecting devices and systems to the internet to collect and exchange data, enabling smarter operations and automation. Examples include MTN’s smart agriculture solutions and connected home devices.
- Digital Services : Offering a range of digital tools and platforms that enhance business operations and customer experiences. These include MTN’s mobile money services, e-commerce platforms, and digital marketing solutions.
MTN’s Role in Uganda’s Digital Transformation
MTN Uganda has been a crucial driver of digital transformation in the country, with substantial investments in infrastructure, innovation, and partnerships. The company has greatly expanded mobile and fiber network coverage, enhancing internet accessibility across Uganda. MTN’s Mobile Money service has revolutionized financial inclusion, offering millions of Ugandans access to digital payments and financial services. Additionally, MTN has made significant strides in deploying 4G and 5G technologies, fostering a dynamic digital ecosystem through collaborations with various sectors, and promoting digital literacy to empower individuals and businesses.
Supporting National Digital Projects
MTN Uganda has supported several significant national digital transformation projects, including the First National Digital Census and Digital Agent Payments, facilitating efficient data collection and financial transactions, and UCC RUCUSAF Projects, connecting 4,200 homesteads to digital platforms.
Exhibiting Partners and Cutting-Edge Solutions
The Expo featured numerous partners exhibiting at stalls, including:
- Chenosis : Africa’s API marketplace, enabling the creation, publication, discovery, and subscription to APIs from across the continent on a single platform.
- Infobip : A global leader in omnichannel engagement, offering messaging channels, tools, and solutions for advanced customer engagement, authentication, and security.
- Galooli : An innovator in remote management, energy efficiency, and IIoT solutions, helping users increase revenues and achieve CAPEX and OPEX savings.
- Bayobab : Formerly MTN GlobalConnect, a next-generation services company connecting Africa with digital solutions.
- Africas Talking : A unified API platform for developers in Africa building SMS, USSD, Voice, Payments, and Airtime applications.
- Cisco and Microsoft : Global technology leaders providing advanced solutions for digital transformation.
Conclusion
The MTN ICT Expo 2024 showcased the latest innovations and underscored the profound impact of technology on businesses, the public sector, and the broader community. With a commitment to driving digital transformation and supporting both the private and public sectors, MTN Uganda continues to lead the way in advancing Uganda’s digital future.
Ronnie Atuhaire is a passionate geek with a deep love for all things tech—from hardware and operating systems to programming. Driven by a desire to learn and share knowledge, Ronnie is committed to helping fellow tech enthusiasts by providing valuable insights and guidance on their tech journeys.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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