The largest network technology hub in Africa, AfriLabs, has announced the admission of 16 new hubs into its fold, thereby expanding its network to 478 hubs across 260 cities in 53 African nations.

The Director of Community at AfriLabs, Mayssa Mrabet, who made the announcement on Friday, the new intakes were carefully selected and considered worthy out of thousands that applied.

“We’re thrilled to extend a warm welcome to our 16 newest members joining the vibrant AfriLabs innovation and technology family,” said Mrabet.

“The addition has now taken the number of tech-hubs on AfriLabs to 478. From North Africa, we welcome REDSTART TUNISIA, ILEY’COM, Impact Partner, Future Islands, and EgyptInnovate.

“From West Africa, we have has added COUVEUSE PAPRICAI, EarlyFounders Labs, ACity Technology & Entrepreneurship Foundation, ZEBOX West Africa and OnlineHubNG.

“From East Africa, AfriLabs has added C4DLab-Computing for Development Lab, Agri Frontier Growth Hub, and JASIRI.

“Finally, from South Africa, Silulo Foundation, UWC Future-Innovation Lab, and Entrepreneurial Planning Institute – DigBiz Network, have joined hands with AfriLabs.

“AfriLabs is a network organisation that is committed to driving innovation and entrepreneurship on the continent by bringing together technology hubs, startups, investors, and other key stakeholders in the ecosystem,” he said in a statement.

South Africa’s leading Internet Service Provider (ISP), Kaya Konekta (KaKo), has launched new operations aimed at reaching underserved communities in the country.

The new service which the company says will revolutionise connectivity in the catchment areas comes with affordable and accessible internet services.

Founder and CEO of KaKo, Kagisho Dichabe, who praised the efforts of his team in a statement on Friday, said “KaKo aims to bridge the connectivity gap by providing reliable and affordable data, with a host of mobile and home broadband packages at below market rates.”

“For financial inclusion to be a reality, we need to connect the unconnected, and “Data Must Fall,” he said.

“We are dedicated to providing affordable, reliable internet services to underserved communities, empowering individuals and businesses for a better future.

“Data has become too expensive for people in our communities, especially in our townships,” Dichabe said.

He added that KaKo also aims to empower youth with accessible, high-speed internet, enabling them to access educational materials and online courses conveniently.

“This connectivity offers opportunities for knowledge expansion, higher education pursuits, and skill development,” he emphasized.

The startup’s CEO Thabiso Malekele, also noted that the company views the “internet as an essential tool, not a privilege, for unlocking potential, fostering learning, and connecting communities.”

“This belief fuels our passion to change and improve the lives of underserved and unconnected individuals.

“Our nation’s history compels us to actively champion this cause. While we strive to expand our reach like any ISP by deploying various technologies including fibre, LTE and 5G to different customers, we prioritise addressing the critical gaps in connectivity that leave many behind.

“At Kaya Konekta, we’re passionate about both customer service and the community.”