Orange, the prominent pan-African telecommunications operator, has taken a significant step forward in its mission to enhance digital skills and support local entrepreneurship across Africa. The company has recently unveiled its latest Orange Digital Center (ODC) in Guinea-Bissau, marking a pivotal moment in its broader initiative to foster innovation and build digital competencies among young people on the continent.
A Comprehensive Ecosystem for Digital Development
The newly established ODC in Guinea-Bissau is designed as a comprehensive ecosystem that integrates various facilities and programs under one roof. The center aims to provide free training and resources to the local youth, focusing primarily on improving employability and nurturing entrepreneurial talent.
At the heart of this initiative is the coding school, which offers hands-on digital training to equip participants with the necessary skills to thrive in today’s digital economy. This is complemented by the ‘FabLab Solidaire,’ a space dedicated to digital production and prototyping. Here, young innovators can bring their ideas to life, experimenting with new technologies and creating tangible products.
Supporting Startups and Entrepreneurs
In addition to training and prototyping facilities, the ODC features the ‘Orange Fab’ startup accelerator. This program is designed to support budding entrepreneurs by providing them with the mentorship, resources, and networks they need to scale their businesses. The accelerator focuses on startups with high growth potential, offering them a platform to refine their ideas, attract investment, and expand their reach.
Backing this robust support system is Orange Ventures Africa, the group’s investment fund dedicated to identifying and nurturing promising startups. By providing financial backing and strategic guidance, Orange Ventures Africa plays a crucial role in ensuring that innovative ideas receive the support they need to flourish.
Empowering the Youth and Boosting the Economy
The launch of the ODC in Guinea-Bissau represents a significant investment in the country’s future. By equipping young people with digital skills and entrepreneurial know-how, Orange is helping to create a new generation of tech-savvy professionals and innovators. This, in turn, is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the local economy, fostering job creation, economic growth, and technological advancement.
A Commitment to Africa’s Digital Transformation
The establishment of the ODC in Guinea-Bissau is part of Orange’s broader commitment to driving digital transformation across Africa. With similar centers already operational in other countries, Orange is steadily building a network of innovation hubs that serve as catalysts for digital development. These centers not only provide training and resources but also create a collaborative environment where young people can share ideas, learn from each other, and work together to solve pressing challenges.
