Issue 52: Ethio Telecom Eyes Streaming Service

Hello, The state-owned telecom operator is targeting streaming service as one of its next ventures. Meanwhile, a new startup is launching Cache, the first self-serve food delivery application that allows users to order food directly from nearby restaurants.The 52th edition of Shega Weekly brings you the major developments from Ethiopia’s innovative ecosystem. If you are here because someone forwarded you this email, you can subscribe here to get future newsletters.

Ethio Telecom Eyes Streaming Service

The state-owned telecom operator is targeting streaming service as one of its next ventures. The telecom provider has already issued a request for proposals for music streaming service providers in February 2022.The content to be delivered through broadband internet could possibly include premium local content, Netflix, Disney +, and Amazon prime, among other selections. Read more. 

Meet Cache: the First Self-serve Food Delivery Platform in EthiopiaPlatform Technologies Plc is launching Cache, the first self-serve food delivery application that allows users to order food directly from nearby restaurants.Founded by Abraham Degfe and Abubakar Salahadin, the startup says its latest product is the result of the gap it saw in the current food delivery market in Ethiopia. Read more.

CIPE, Shega, Swaye Ventures Launch Research Study, Policy BriefCIPE, in partnership with Shega and Swaye Ventures, launched a research study and policy brief on how to unlock access to finance for MSMEs in Ethiopia through digital channels. Read more.

The Case for Central Bank Digital Currency in EthiopiaMichael, an Associate Consultant at Shega Insights, believes that with the inevitable rise of cryptocurrencies and stablecoins in Ethiopia, the National Bank should begin developing its expertise in CBDC and prepare for its eventual issuance. Read more. 

Fuel Price Hikes Put Ride-hailing Sector in Trouble, Time to Re-innovate the Business ModelWith the latest fuel price hikes, ride-hailing platforms in Ethiopia seem destined to be out of the affordable price range for the "middle class." Is a change in how ride-hailing companies operate warranted? Asks Nathnael Tsegaw, manager of Shega Insights. Read more. 

Meet the Ethiopian Delegation Heading to GITEX GlobalA dozen Ethiopian startups and companies are heading to one of the world's largest startup and annual tech conferences, GITEX Global. Read more.

Agritech Startup Aims to Raise Farming Productivity in Ethiopia with Innovative DeviceJimma-based startup Omishtu Joy is working on designing and developing an agricultural device that can significantly increase farming productivity. Read more.

Ignite Investment Launches Equity Crowdfunding Platform for Ethiopian StartupsIgnite Investment Inc., a U.S. registered company with subsidiaries in Ethiopia, has launched an equity crowdfunding platform that connects Ethiopian entrepreneurs with equity investors from the diaspora. Read more.

Mobile Internet Speed in Ethiopia Ranked 107th Globally: ReportAccording to a report by US-based internet speed analysis firm Ookla, the average mobile internet speed in Ethiopia is ranked 107th globally. Read more.

Major Challenges Facing Ethiopia's Digital Transformation of Government ServicesYinebeb Bahru writes about the main challenges facing Ethiopia's digital transformation of government services (e-government). Read more.

Brief Overview of the Ethiopian Licensing Regime on Communications ServicesAman & Partners LLP provides an insight into the current legal licensing requirements to engage in communications services such as telecommunication, Value-Added Services (VAS), hosting, and data center provisions. Read more. 

RENEW LLC Becomes Renew CapitalRENEW LLC rebrands to Renew Capital and plans to expand to other African countries. Read more.

Ethio Telecom Unveils New StrategyEthio telecom has introduced a new business strategy. Dubbed "LEAD", the strategy looks to drive growth through a focus on digital and financial services. Read more.

Here is what we've been reading:

Africa’s payments startups are about to face competition from a Brazilian unicornNigerian tech startups are Africa’s most accelerated, report findsMeet the agents teaching TikTok livestreamers how to earn big tipsIf you are here because someone forwarded you this email, you can subscribe here to get future newsletters.