Meet the Team: Our Commitment to Growth

At Smart ICT Solutions, our greatest asset is our people! 🌱 We believe in continuous learning and professional development to deliver the best for our clients. Here’s a glimpse into our recent team training session! #TeamWork #ProfessionalDevelopment #SmartICTFamily #BehindTheScenes

Unauthorized money transfer providers Based on National Bank of Ethiopia (NEBE)

The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) identified 23 unauthorized money transfer service providers and warned the public and diaspora against using them. These entities were flagged for operating without the necessary NBE license, which constitutes a violation of Ethiopian law.

List of Unauthorized Providers

The following 23 entities were explicitly named as unauthorized by the NBE:

1. Adulis Money Transfer (also referred to as ADZ)

2. Amal Express

3. Bakaal Money Transfer

4. Jubba Express

5. Quick Pay

6. Redsea (USA)

7. Tasa Pay

8. Wise Trading Money Transfer

9. Amal USA

10. Avanti

11. Bananapay

12. Moneytos

13. Ramad Pay (Kaah)

14. Shgey Money Transfer

15. Tawakal Money Services

16. World Direct Link

17. Amana Express

18. Awash Direct

19. Holden Global

20. Olympic Financial Group (OFG)

21. Rasmy Pay

22. TAAJ Money Transfer

23. USWyre / Derro

Why the NBE Issued the Warning?

Legal Consequences: Providing or using unlicensed remittance services is illegal and punishable under Ethiopian law.

Risk of Loss: Funds sent through these “underground” channels are at risk of confiscation and may not reach the intended recipient.

Security Concerns: The NBE noted that some operators are suspected of breaching financial regulations related to money laundering and terrorism financing.

Crackdown Measures: The NBE is taking coordinated action against both unlicensed dealers and recipients who use these illegal channels.

How to Transfer Money Safely?

The NBE maintains a list of over 60 authorized Money Transfer Agents (such as MoneyGram, PayPal, and Western Union) on its official website (https://nbe.gov.et/mta/). Users are urged to verify any service provider’s status through the National Bank of Ethiopia’s list of licensed institutions before initiating a transfer.

To report suspicious activities, the public can contact the NBE via email at complaintoffice@nbe.gov.et or by calling 6230.

Would you like the full list of currently licensed agents to compare against?

How Artificial Intelligence Is Reshaping Our World

From the way we communicate to how businesses make decisions, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic idea—it’s part of our everyday lives.

Think about virtual assistants that schedule your day, recommendation systems that know exactly what you want to watch, or smart tools that help doctors detect diseases earlier. These aren’t just innovations—they’re transformations powered by AI.

While many people associate AI with chatbots like Gita GPT, that’s only the beginning. Behind the scenes, AI is driving powerful changes across industries:

  • Healthcare: Improving diagnosis and patient care
  • Education: Personalizing learning experiences
  • Finance: Detecting fraud and optimizing investments
  • Agriculture: Enhancing crop yields with smart predictions
  • Business & Marketing: Turning data into actionable insights

What makes AI truly exciting is its ability to learn, adapt, and evolve—helping humans solve complex problems faster and more efficiently than ever before.

🚀 As we move toward a smarter future, one question remains:

👉 Which AI application fascinates you the most?
Is it self-driving cars, intelligent chatbots, or something else entirely?

💬 Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective!


#AI #Innovation #FutureTech #SmartICT

Empowering Your Business with Smart ICT Solutions

Is your business ready for the digital future? 🚀 Smart ICT Solutions offers comprehensive services from network infrastructure to cloud solutions, designed to boost your productivity and secure your operations. Let’s innovate together! Visit our website to learn more: www.smarticts.net #ICTSolutions #BusinessGrowth #DigitalTransformation

Educational, practical advice

🔒 Cybersecurity isn’t just for big corporations! Small businesses and individuals are prime targets too. This week’s tip: Always use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. Protect your digital life! #Cybersecurity #TechTips #SmartICT

Cybersecurity in the Age of AI: 2026 Enterprise Threats & Defense

Artificial Intelligence is redefining cybersecurity in the age of AI, transforming both cyber defense and cybercrime. As we enter 2026, AI-driven cyber threats are growing in speed, scale, and sophistication — forcing enterprises to rethink traditional security models.

This article explores AI cybersecurity trends for 2026 and explains how enterprises can prepare for the rapidly evolving digital threat landscape.


AI-Driven Cyber Attacks Will Dominate in 2026

Cybercriminals now use AI to automate and enhance attacks, including:

  • Highly targeted phishing powered by machine learning
  • Deepfake audio and video for identity fraud
  • AI-based vulnerability discovery and exploitation

Unlike traditional attacks, AI-powered cyber threats adapt in real time, making them harder to detect and stop.

CES 2026: Top AI and Smart Tech Trends Shaping ICT Solutions

The global technology landscape is evolving faster than ever, and CES 2026 has once again proven to be the launchpad for innovations that will define the future of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). From advanced artificial intelligence to smarter devices and energy-efficient hardware, this year’s CES highlights how technology is becoming more intelligent, connected, and business-ready.

Below are the top AI and smart tech trends from CES 2026 that are shaping modern ICT solutions.


1. AI Becomes Core ICT Infrastructure

At CES 2026, AI is no longer a supporting feature—it is the backbone of ICT systems.

  • AI is being embedded directly into servers, network devices, and endpoints
  • Enterprises are adopting AI-driven automation for IT operations, cybersecurity, and customer engagement
  • Predictive analytics and self-healing networks are becoming standard ICT capabilities

🔹 Impact on ICT:
Organizations can expect faster decision-making, reduced operational costs, and more resilient digital infrastructure.


2. Edge AI and Smart Devices Take Center Stage

One of the biggest shifts at CES 2026 is the move from cloud-only AI to edge computing.

  • AI processing now happens directly on IoT devices, smart sensors, wearables, and industrial equipment
  • Reduced latency and improved data privacy
  • Ideal for smart cities, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics

🔹 Impact on ICT:
Edge AI enables real-time insights, reliable connectivity, and efficient bandwidth usage across ICT networks.


3. Next-Generation AI Chips and Processors

Semiconductor innovation was a major highlight at CES 2026.

  • New AI-optimized processors deliver higher performance with lower power consumption
  • Designed for data centers, enterprise networks, and AI workloads
  • Supports large-scale AI deployment without excessive energy costs

🔹 Impact on ICT:
More powerful and energy-efficient ICT infrastructure that can scale with AI-driven applications.


4. Smart Office and Enterprise Technology

CES 2026 showcased smarter tools for modern workplaces.

  • AI-powered laptops and collaboration devices
  • Smart displays with voice, gesture, and AI control
  • Intelligent office management systems that optimize energy and productivity

🔹 Impact on ICT:
Hybrid work environments become more secure, connected, and productive through integrated smart ICT solutions.


5. Wearable and Low-Power Smart Technology

Wearable technology continues to expand beyond fitness.

  • AI-enabled smart glasses and sensors
  • Ultra-low-power processors for continuous monitoring
  • Applications in healthcare, industrial safety, and field services

🔹 Impact on ICT:
ICT systems must support real-time data integration, mobility, and secure wearable connectivity.


6. Cybersecurity Powered by AI

With increasing digitalization, cybersecurity was a major theme at CES 2026.

  • AI-based threat detection and response
  • Automated security monitoring across networks and endpoints
  • Zero-trust and AI-driven identity management

🔹 Impact on ICT:
Smarter security frameworks protect data, devices, and users without slowing operations.


What CES 2026 Means for ICT Solution Providers

CES 2026 confirms that the future of ICT is:

  • AI-first
  • Device-intelligent
  • Energy-efficient
  • Highly connected

ICT solution providers must now focus on delivering integrated AI, smart hardware, cloud, and edge solutions that support business growth and digital transformation.


Conclusion

CES 2026 highlights a clear message: AI and smart technologies are redefining ICT solutions. From intelligent infrastructure to edge AI and smart workplaces, businesses that embrace these trends will stay competitive in an increasingly digital world.

Smart ICT solutions are no longer optional—they are essential.

East-West Africa Digital Infrastructure Integration Gets a Boost

Addis Ababa, November 1, 2025 — East Africa’s growing digital ecosystem is set for a major upgrade as Wingu Africa, a leading regional data-centre operator, announced a strategic partnership with Africa Data Centres (ADC) to strengthen interconnectivity between East and West Africa.

The new collaboration aims to link data infrastructure in Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Tanzania with ADC’s existing pan-African network, improving cloud-service reliability, internet latency, and regional data-sovereignty capabilities.

“This partnership marks an important milestone in Africa’s digital transformation journey,” said a Wingu Africa spokesperson. “It brings us closer to creating a truly interconnected African cloud ecosystem that keeps data within the continent.”

Industry analysts say the move could significantly reduce the continent’s reliance on data routing through Europe and Asia, enabling faster, more secure, and locally managed cloud services.

For Ethiopia, where data-centre development and cloud adoption are still emerging, this deal offers a chance to accelerate the digital economy, attract international investors, and empower startups with local hosting solutions.

Key Highlights:

  • Seamless integration of East and West African data hubs.
  • Improved redundancy and uptime for enterprise and government clients.
  • Enhanced data-protection compliance within African jurisdictions.
  • Foundation for future expansion in North and Southern Africa.

The partnership aligns with Africa’s broader digital goals under the Smart Africa Alliance, which promotes regional infrastructure sharing and data localization.

As Africa’s demand for cloud computing, fintech, and AI services grows, initiatives like this one show how regional cooperation can help close the digital divide — and make the continent’s tech ecosystem more self-reliant.


Source: Tech Africa News – Wingu Africa Partners with Africa Data Centres (November 2025)

Windows 11 Tests Shared Bluetooth Audio for Two Headsets

Windows 11 is rolling out a new preview feature allowing users to stream audio simultaneously to two pairs of wireless headphones, earbuds, speakers, or hearing aids using the Bluetooth LE audio codec. The Verge
Why it matters: This feature brings Windows closer to the multi-listener audio sharing already seen on some smartphones and devices. It enhances shared viewing or listening experiences.
Key points:

  • Feature currently available to Windows 11 Insider testers in the Dev and Beta channels. The Verge
  • Requires compatible Bluetooth LE audio devices (e.g., Sony WH-1000XM6, Samsung Galaxy Buds 3, etc.) and specific Copilot Plus PCs. The Verge
  • Broadens Windows’s capabilities in ambient/collaborative use cases (watching movies together, sharing audio) and aligns with the wireless-audio ecosystem trend.
    Implication for your audience: If your site covers PC hardware or audio gear, this is an opportunity to discuss best headsets for the feature, compatibility issues, and when it might roll out to general users.

Mastercard Scholarships

Below are 9 full scholarships currently open to African students + one bonus program at the bottom. Many application deadlines closing soon!

Africans under 35 are eligible, with women, refugees, and people with disabilities especially encouraged to apply.

𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲
Undergrad
Deadline: 1 Nov (rolling for future cohorts)
https://lnkd.in/dDQU2PxB

𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐨𝐧𝐚 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲
Graduate (Innovation and tech focused)
Deadline: 2 Nov
https://lnkd.in/d6crMnCH

𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨
Graduate (Healthcare focused)
Deadline: 3 Nov
https://lnkd.in/dBs2Ahj3

𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐞𝐢𝐫𝐮𝐭
Graduate
Deadline: 6 Nov (PhD), March 2026 (Masters)
https://lnkd.in/d8zmFpuR

𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐡
Graduate
Deadline: 14 Nov (Application phase 1)
https://lnkd.in/dbezewpW

𝐔𝐂 𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐲
Graduate
Deadline: 15 Nov (For fee waiver)
https://lnkd.in/dGw_wbMf

𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐞
Graduate
Deadline: Early Dec to Jan. Varies by program
https://lnkd.in/dEPpSitp

𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐞 𝐌𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐧 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚
Graduate
Deadline: 15 Dec
https://lnkd.in/dGFaJtV9

𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐏𝐨
Graduate
Deadline: 4 Jan 2026
https://lnkd.in/dthr2HCi

Here’s your bonus. Not an academic scholarship, but a great fellowship:

𝐉𝐢𝐦 𝐋𝐞𝐞𝐜𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩
Queen’s University (Canada). An 8-month program with stipend & pitch opportunities
Deadline: 15 Dec
https://lnkd.in/dPwu5QXr


Credit: Matthew Grollnek