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- Africa’s Tech Ecosystem Digest | Issue #12 | June 25, 2025
Africa’s Tech Ecosystem Digest | Issue #12 | June 25, 2025
This time? Telecoms are flipping the script, startups are snagging big bucks, and there’s a fresh acquisition to hype about.
Thalo Group
June 25, 2025
Hi Thalo Fam! 👋
Welcome back to Thalo, your insider’s guide to Africa’s tech scene.
Last time, we were buzzing about Vendease’s drama and Moniepoint’s cash-out saga. This time? Telecoms are flipping the script, startups are snagging big bucks, and there’s a fresh acquisition to hype about. Plus, funding opportunities and events to keep the vibes going. Let’s dive in!
In Today’s Edition
Nigerian Telecoms Flip the Switch on USSD Billing After ₦180 Billion Debt Payoff
Chowdeck Snags Mira in a Next-Level Vendor Play
Fresh Funding Rounds & Accelerator Programs
Can’t-Miss Events with Networking Opportunities
Nigerian Telecoms Flip the Switch on USSD Billing After ₦180 Billion Debt Payoff
Big change alert for USSD users: as of June 18, telcos have started charging customers directly from their airtime, ₦6.98 per 2-minute session. So, the next time you dial 737# or 894#, that fee won’t sneak out of your bank account; it'll come straight from your phone credit. You’ll get a prompt before each session asking you to opt in, and if the session fails, you won’t be charged. This update is part of a new billing model led by the NCC, CBN, banks, and telecoms to end the long-running feud over who pays for USSD.
Why the change? Telcos say banks have racked up a whopping ₦180 billion in unpaid USSD fees. After years of back-and-forth, banks have reportedly cleared about 95% of that debt, and this new “End-User Billing” model puts the control, and the bill, into users' hands. If you get double-charged (airtime and bank account), your bank is expected to refund you. For now, it might be smart to keep tabs on your airtime balance or consider switching to app or internet banking if you're not a fan of these new charges.
Chowdeck Acquires Mira in a Next-Level Vendor Play
Chowdeck, the Lagos‑born delivery powerhouse with over 1.5 million users and 20,000 riders across 11 cities, has quietly ushered in its next phase, by acquiring Mira, a one‑year‑old POS and restaurant management startup used by more than 500 hospitality venues . What began as a quest to empower restaurants with faster deliveries has now evolved into a mission to support them behind the scenes: inventory checks, kitchen workflows, sales tracking, and QR/ card payments, thanks to the bolt‑on capabilities Mira brings to the table .
💰 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
 | Africa Deep Tech Challenge 2025 This challenge encourages innovators to create solutions using resource-constrained computing, such as AI on edge devices or energy-efficient tech. Prize pool: Total of $20,000 in cash Deadline: 31 July 2025 |
 | Visa Accelerator Program The Visa Accelerator Program provides training, mentorship, funding opportunities, and partnerships with major companies. Prize pool: over ~$200,000 in benefits Deadline: 15 Aug 2025 |
📅 UPCOMING EVENTS
 | Africa Workforce Summit This summit brings together leaders and experts to discuss strategies for building a skilled workforce in the digital age, offering valuable insights for businesses and policymakers. |
 | National Cyber Security Conference This conference will gather cybersecurity experts to focus on building a resilient digital future, with discussions on innovation and collaboration. |
 | Africa Technology Show 2025 In its 5th year, AFTS 2025 is East Africa’s top tech event. It’s a great opportunity for government, business, and academic stakeholders to explore innovations for sustainable growth. |
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That's a wrap for this issue! We're just getting started, and we've got tons of exciting stuff planned. See you next week!
Cheers,
The Thalo Team