AfTIAS 2.0 drives ICT-led economic transformation in Algeria
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is rapidly reshaping the global economic landscape, offering transformative solutions that improve business efficiency, boost competitiveness and create new growth pathways. In Algeria, the Aid for Trade Initiative for Arab States (AfTIAS) 2.0 programme is at the forefront of this shift, playing a key role in advancing the country's information and digital technology (IDT) sector.
Through a series of targeted initiatives, AfTIAS 2.0 has focused on enhancing the capabilities of tech startups and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) by addressing structural challenges that hinder their growth. These efforts include support for digital transformation, capacity-building, and access to international markets, ultimately contributing to a more robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in Algeria.
A major aspect of the programme has been its work with Business Support Organisations (BSOs) such as Algeria Venture and the Algerian Startup Support Fund (ASF). With customised capacity-building support, these organisations are now better equipped to mentor startups, offer advisory services, and connect entrepreneurs with funding sources. A dedicated workshop on digitalisation enabled Trade Support Institutions (TSIs) to develop actionable digital strategies, empowering them to better serve businesses adapting to rapid technological changes.
At the enterprise level, AfTIAS 2.0 has delivered specialised training that addresses key gaps in business models, financial planning and global market readiness. In collaboration with partners like IncubMe, these programmes have delivered hands-on learning in data science, investor preparedness, and commercial strategy. The aim has been to give startups the practical tools necessary to grow, scale and compete in both local and international arenas.
AfTIAS 2.0 has also played a pivotal role in providing Algerian startups with international exposure. Participation in major global tech events such as GITEX and Viva Technology has allowed emerging businesses to showcase their innovations, network with global investors, and forge new partnerships. One such startup, Namlatic, gained significant attention after securing deals with local hotels and receiving widespread media coverage. Similarly, six Algerian entrepreneurs in digitalisation and automation, all previous beneficiaries of the programme, represented the country at the third Arab SMEs Summit in Doha, Qatar.
These collective efforts highlight the broader impact of ICT as a driver of economic transformation, not merely a tool for modernisation. By integrating digital technologies into trade and enterprise development, AfTIAS 2.0 is opening up new pathways for sustainable growth. The programmes commitment to inclusivityparticularly its focus on empowering women and youth in the tech sectorunderscores its mission to foster equitable development.
Despite these advancements, the path forward is not without challenges. Ensuring institutional stability, expanding digital infrastructure, and maintaining investments in skills development remain critical priorities. AfTIAS 2.0 continues to address these needs through diagnostic assessments and sustained technical support, reinforcing its long-term vision for economic resilience.
As Algeria navigates its digital future, the success of AfTIAS 2.0 serves as an example of how ICT can help emerging economies not only integrate into the global economy but lead in shaping its direction. Through strategic innovation and inclusive capacity-building, the programme is laying the groundwork for a digitally empowered and economically vibrant future.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Gulf Today
Kerala's Azad Moopen among India's top 5 promoter-investors
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder & Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare is now among India's top five promoter-investors in India in FY25, with a dividend income of Rs2,594 crore. He is the only entrepreneur from Kerala to be featured on the prestigious list, which includes prominent industrialists like Mukesh Ambani, Anil Agarwal, and Azim Premji. The company had declared a special dividend of Rs.118.0 per equity share, a final dividend of Rs.2.0 per equity share and an interim dividend of Rs.4.0 per equity share in FY25. The promoters currently hold 42% stake in Aster DM Healthcare. This milestone reflects not just personal wealth creation, but the robust financial health and operational performance of Aster DM Healthcare-an integrated healthcare organisation built with the mission of providing accessible, high-quality care across India and GCC. The same year Aster also announced its landmark merger with Quality Care India Ltd. (QCIL). The merger positions Dr. Moopen led Aster DM Quality Care Ltd. (the combined entity) backed by Blackstone among India's top three hospital chains, with 38 hospitals and over 10,300 beds across 27 cities. Unlike many other promoters in the list, Dr. Moopen's rise stems from an enterprise that prioritizes clinical excellence and community care. From a single clinic in Dubai in 1987 to 900+ healthcare facilities across India and GCC and employing over 34,000+ professionals across seven countries, Dr. Moopen's journey exemplifies sustainable, impact-driven entrepreneurship. Dr. Moopen is recipient of Padma Shri, 4th highest civilian award by the Government of India in 2011 and has also been honoured with the 'Pravasi Bharatiya Samman' by the Government of India. Dr. Moopen's initiatives have played a pivotal role in expanding access to healthcare for underserved communities, underscoring his dual legacy as both a compassionate healer and visionary business leader. Recognising the urgent need for quality medical education and infrastructure in Wayanad, he established Dr. Moopen's Medical College, the first medical college in Kerala to be set up in a hilly, tribal, and backward district, marking a transformative step in uplifting healthcare access in Wayanad. He set up Aster Volunteers in 2016 which has grown to become one of the largest volunteering organisations globally with 85,000+ volunteers working to provide disaster and improve medical access to remote areas. Following the devastating floods in Kerala in 2018, he pledged to rebuild lives by constructing homes for those affected, a promise he fulfilled in 2022 by handing 255 homes across the state. During the 2023 landslides in Wayanad, Dr. Moopen led from the front, directing his team and medical professionals to ensure swift deployment of aid and critical healthcare services. As Aster DM Healthcare enters its next phase of growth, Dr. Moopen's journey stands as a powerful example of how healthcare, rooted in purpose, can also become a powerful engine of sustainable financial value.
Web Release
6 days ago
- Web Release
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder & Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare features among India's Top 5 cash-rich promoters
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder & Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare is now among India's top five promoter-investors in India in FY25, with a dividend income of ~?2,594crore. He is the only entrepreneur from Kerala to be featured on the prestigious list, which includes prominent industrialists like Mukesh Ambani, Anil Agarwal, and Azim Premji. The company had declared a special dividend of Rs.118.0 per equity share, a final dividend of Rs.2.0 per equity share and an interim dividend of Rs.4.0 per equity share in FY25. The promoters currently hold 42% stake in Aster DM Healthcare. This milestone reflects not just personal wealth creation, but the robust financial health and operational performance of Aster DM Healthcare—an integrated healthcare organization built with the mission of providing accessible, high-quality care across India and GCC. The same year Aster also announced its landmark merger with Quality Care India Ltd. (QCIL). The merger positions Dr. Moopen led Aster DM Quality Care Ltd. (the combined entity) backed by Blackstone among India's top three hospital chains, with 38 hospitals and over 10,300 beds across 27 cities. Unlike many other promoters in the list, Dr. Moopen's rise stems from an enterprise that prioritizes clinical excellence and community care. From a single clinic in Dubai in 1987 to 900+ healthcare facilities across India and GCC and employing over 34,000+ professionals across seven countries, Dr. Moopen's journey exemplifies sustainable, impact-driven entrepreneurship. Dr. Moopen is recipient of Padma Shri, 4th highest civilian award by the Government of India in 2011 and has also been honoured with the 'Pravasi Bharatiya Samman' by the Government of India. Dr. Moopen's initiatives have played a pivotal role in expanding access to healthcare for underserved communities, underscoring his dual legacy as both a compassionate healer and visionary business leader. Recognising the urgent need for quality medical education and infrastructure in Wayanad, he established Dr. Moopen's Medical College—the first medical college in Kerala to be set up in a hilly, tribal, and backward district, marking a transformative step in uplifting healthcare access in Wayanad. He set up Aster Volunteers in 2016 which has grown to become one of the largest volunteering organisation globally with 85000+ volunteers working to provide disaster and improve medical access to remote areas. Following the devastating floods in Kerala in 2018, he pledged to rebuild lives by constructing homes for those affected, a promise he fulfilled in 2022 by handing 255 homes across the state. During the 2023 landslides in Wayanad, Dr. Moopen led from the front, directing his team and medical professionals to ensure swift deployment of aid and critical healthcare services. As Aster DM Healthcare enters its next phase of growth, Dr. Moopen's journey stands as a powerful example of how healthcare, rooted in purpose, can also become a powerful engine of sustainable financial value.
The National
6 days ago
- The National
El Sisi meets Centcom chief in Cairo and reaffirms strong US-Egypt ties
US Central Command (Centcom) chief Gen Michael Kurilla met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi in Cairo on Sunday, with both reaffirming the strategic partnership between their countries despite recent strained relations. A statement from the Egyptian presidency underscored the 'strategic depth' of US-Egyptian relations and highlighted that President Donald Trump's attitude towards Cairo was well-intentioned. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral military and security co-operation, and addressing regional challenges, including efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and to allow sustained humanitarian aid to the enclave, the presidency said. The meeting, attended by Egypt's Defence Minister Abdel Meguid Saqr and US ambassador Herro Mustafa, also touched on broader regional issues, with Mr El Sisi discussing Egypt's water security and developments in the Horn of Africa. The high-level visit comes after months of uncertainty over US-Egypt relations, exacerbated by disagreements over Israel's war on Gaza. Mr Trump's controversial demand for Egypt to resettle Palestinians from Gaza in its Sinai Peninsula was met with a firm rejection from Cairo, which called the proposal a threat to national security and the Palestinian cause. The US President then ruffled feathers again in April with a demand that American vessels should transit the Suez Canal free of charge. Pro-government Egyptian media dismissed the idea as 'preposterous' and it fuelled speculation over Cairo's growing frustration with Washington's policies. At the same time, Egypt has deepened its ties with other global powers, particularly China, with which it conducted a joint military exhibition at the Giza pyramids in April and May. Cairo also purchased a number of Chinese military hardware. Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang visited Cairo this month to expand economic and military co-operation, including infrastructure investment and joint military drills. He met government officials, including Mr El Sisi, and business leaders. Egypt's involvement in the Brics bloc and growing reliance on Chinese and Russian arms have signalled a broader shift in its foreign policy. Despite the apparent political discord, US-Egypt economic ties remain significant. In May, the US-Egypt Policy Leaders' Forum highlighted Cairo's efforts to attract American investment, including a proposed US industrial zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone. US companies have invested more than $47 billion in Egypt in the past 20 years and the two sides continue to prioritise trade and investment, even as political tension persists. Gen Kurilla's visit may also indicate Washington's intent to preserve its $1.3 billion annual military aid package to Egypt, a cornerstone of their relationship since the 1970s. Following the perceived row, questions were raised over the continuation of the military aid package, especially in light of larger funding cuts introduced by Mr Trump's administration since he came to power again in January. His predecessor Joe Biden had halted 10 per cent of the annual aid package to Cairo over Egypt's failure to comply with human rights standards set by the aid agreement. The aid was restored the following year.
