Beyond Backdoors: Africa Tackles Foreign Interference in Tech

Challenges with cyber espionage and supply chain vulnerabilities are prompting African nations to explore strategies for diversifying their technological partnerships. Recent incidents involving backdoor installations and data breaches have underscored the risks of dependency on foreign suppliers, particularly from China and the United States.

For five years, computers at the African Union headquarters in Ethiopia—a facility constructed by Chinese companies—transmitted confidential data to servers in China. While China denies these allegations, the case has become emblematic of the fragility in technology supply chains.

According to a report by the African Center for Strategic Studies (ACSS), African nations are beginning to reevaluate their approach to selecting technology providers. A particular focus is placed on the security of supply chains encompassing applications, devices, infrastructure, and services.

Nate Allen, the report’s author, notes a growing interest among African countries in achieving greater technological self-reliance. He highlights that African states are increasingly recognizing the necessity of exerting control and influence over their supply chains.

Against the backdrop of global threats such as the WannaCry and NotPetya attacks, African countries remain concerned about foreign interference—not only from China but also from other global players, including the United States.

Mark Walker, Vice President of IDC South Africa, emphasizes that fostering local technological development and enhancing workforce skills are critical to reducing dependency. However, limited resources significantly hinder progress in this area.

Despite these efforts, 36 of the 100 most popular applications in Africa are developed by Chinese companies, with 23 created by American firms, while the contribution of African developers remains minimal. U.S. dominance is also evident in operating systems, where Windows, Android, and iOS prevail.

Nevertheless, the African tech market is expanding, and local companies possess a deeper understanding of national needs. The ACSS report suggests that increased diversity and competition could mitigate the influence of external players.

Incidents such as the cyberattack targeting Kenyan officials over debt issues with China, as well as operations aimed at diplomatic missions and military forces, underscore the urgency of enhancing cybersecurity measures. African experts also warn of vulnerabilities in open-source software widely used across the continent.

Companies seeking to succeed in the African market must consider local contexts and offer robust, reliable solutions. Failing to do so risks ceding ground to competitors, Walker asserts.