Latest news with #AUSIM
Morocco World
18-05-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
33% of Moroccan Companies Warn AI Is Widening Cybersecurity Gaps
Rabat – Artificial intelligence has become the leading cybersecurity concern for Moroccan organizations, surpassing even cloud-related risks, according to the 2025 'Ausimètre' report. Conducted by the Moroccan Association of Information Systems Users (AUSIM) in collaboration with PwC, the annual survey paints a concerning picture of a cybersecurity landscape increasingly shaped by advanced and sophisticated threats. One in three companies reported that the integration of AI has expanded their attack surface, with many citing targeted and automated attacks such as machine learning-powered phishing, deepfakes, and polymorphic malware. Despite these risks, 42% of surveyed organizations acknowledged lacking internal policies to regulate the use of generative AI, while another 42% admitted to not providing sufficient employee training in its use. Alarmingly, 36% said their staff use these tools without supervision, raising fears of data breaches and malicious exploitation. A Moroccan cybersecurity official described the situation as critical, warning that 'without strict governance, AI becomes a significant vulnerability.' As organizations confront these new threats, many are turning to Zero Trust strategies to manage access control and limit potential breaches. The survey found that more than half of the respondents prioritize employee awareness as their primary line of defense, followed by identity and access management and broader security governance. These findings suggest a growing understanding that cybersecurity must go beyond technology and become a part of organizational culture. Read also: Transparency Maroc: CNSS Data Breach Exposes Critical Flaws in Morocco's Cybersecurity A major hurdle remains, however: investment. A third of Moroccan companies are still operating at a basic level of cybersecurity maturity, with limited budgets hindering their ability to respond to increasingly complex attacks. This underinvestment is also affecting the secure adoption of emerging technologies such as blockchain, robotics, and virtual reality, which remain largely unprotected in many organizations. Globally, the gap is widening. While 67% of cybersecurity leaders worldwide report AI-related risks, 78% have increased their cybersecurity budgets to address them. In Morocco, only 18% of surveyed organizations have followed suit. Cloud security also remains a weak point, with many companies lacking clearly defined responsibilities, proper contractual protections, and well-tested recovery plans. Still, the report shows cautious optimism. Around 60% of Moroccan businesses plan to harness AI to enhance threat detection, log analysis, and security operations. Experts warn, however, that these ambitions must be matched with clear internal policies, strong leadership, and a firm commitment to security governance. The AUSIM 2025 report concludes with a clear message: without bold governance and adequate investment, Moroccan organizations risk falling behind in the global fight against cybercrime. Tags: AI cybersecurityCyber Crime in MoroccoCybersecurity
Business Insider
06-05-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
HER Power, Africa's transformation: Insights for women breaking barriers in tech
On a warm digital stage, over 1,000 current and aspiring young Africans in tech gathered for the HER Power, Africa's Transformation event organised by ALX and Women in Tech. The focus? Empowering women across Africa to lead the continent's tech and entrepreneurial transformation. Across two insightful panel discussions, a compelling keynote address and masterclass breakaways, clear themes emerged, emphasising the importance of mentorship, fostering inclusive networks, and leveraging education and technology to break barriers and drive impactful change for women across Africa. Speakers emphasised that empowering women in tech and entrepreneurship is about more than equity—it's about transforming Africa into a hub of growth and opportunity. Sharon O'Donnell, Chief Customer Experience Officer at ALX Africa, said, "Unlocking potential through access, innovation, and intentional support doesn't just create jobs—it ignites movements, shifts narratives, and builds futures." Keynote speaker Jeniffer Ramnath, Chief Digital and Information Officer at the Mastercard Foundation, highlighted the importance of technology in shaping Africa's future. "The future of work is being reshaped by AI and emerging technologies, creating both challenges and opportunities for young women in Africa. By taking a women-centered approach to technology deployment, we can ensure these advances help bridge gaps, rather than widen them." Nihal Djebli, Managing Director of AI Crafters and former director of IT industry association AUSIM , highlighted a critical issue—retaining women in leadership roles. Despite the high number of women studying STEM subjects Morocco, only 18 out of 120 AUSIM member companies had female CIOs, Djebli said. She urged women to 'break free from invisible chains', such as societal expectations and self-doubt, that hinder their growth. The topic of imposter syndrome was tackled head-on by speakers like Melissa Slaymaker, Regional Director for Women in Tech, who reframed it as a growth opportunity. 'Imposter syndrome isn't always a bad thing. It means you are out of your comfort zone and growing. It's about changing your mindset, recognising the nerves and finding the tools to minimise them," she remarked. Entrepreneurship was a major focus, with speakers encouraging women to pursue entrepreneurial ventures as a means to create sustainable change. Nicole Gray, Entrepreneurship Development Manager at ALX Africa, emphasised how an entrepreneurial mindset can drive impact at both community and organisational levels. 'Start where you are. Don't wait for the perfect conditions to make an impact. With the right mindset, network, and tools, you can build businesses that fuel Africa's growth,' she said. "Africa is an interesting place to do business," shared panellist Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson, CEO of HealthTracka. "Women are often underestimated, but I see that as a superpower. When they don't see you coming, you meet them with proof that you're capable, you show up, do the work, and you will make your mark on the world just by doing what you're meant to do." Actionable advice for aspiring women in tech Speakers shared practical steps for women looking to thrive in tech and entrepreneurship: Break barriers with belief: Sometimes the biggest obstacles are internal. Despite being told she couldn't lead as a child, Dominion Paul defied expectations in her rural community to become the founder and CEO of LADX. Her unwavering belief drove her success. She urged women to embrace curiosity, persistence, and "intentional stubbornness" to overcome challenges. "Be delusional! Believe you can build something extraordinary. Barriers often come wrapped as advice—give yourself permission to dream big," she said. Invest in skills development: Invest in both technical and human-focused skills like leadership and critical thinking, advised Ramnath. "The future of work will require a blend of digital literacy and uniquely human capabilities like creativity, empathy, and critical thinking." ALX's digital skills development programmes provide an excellent place to start. Leverage online learning platforms, scholarships, and grants to overcome financial barriers. Build strong networks and engage mentors: Join communities like ALX and Women in Tech Global, attend hackathons, and seek mentorship opportunities. Slaymaker urged women to build a 'pit crew' of mentors, allies, and sponsors who can support and advocate for them. She stressed, 'Surround yourself with people who uplift you, whether it's to guide you, cheer you on, or open doors when you're not in the room.' Leverage technology for impact: AI-enabled solutions can help optimise your career or entrepreneurial ventures, whether in education, healthcare, or agriculture. Use the resources and knowledge you have today to address local challenges. Incremental impact can lead to transformational change. Lead with purpose and heart: Be intentional in your work and prioritise emotional intelligence alongside technical expertise. "Your story has power, and your difference is your strength. Lead not just with knowledge but also with heart," said Djebli. Support others on the same journey:"As you rise, bring others with you", shared Ramnath, emphasising the importance of collective lifting to transform entire systems. Africa's future is feminine, and it starts now At the heart of this event was ALX's commitment to unlocking opportunities for young Africans in technology, leadership, and entrepreneurship. The ALX ecosystem of opportunity, which includes world-class training, entrepreneurial networks, and mentorship, has empowered thousands. With over 115,000 female learners and 4,065 women founders already part of their cosystem, ALX is ensuring that young women have the tools to lead Africa into a prosperous future.
Morocco World
14-04-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Concentrix Unveils Strategic Digital Shift at GITEX Africa 2025
Marrakech – As GITEX Africa 2025 is underway in Marrakech from April 14 to 16, Concentrix is making a high-impact entrance, revealing a bold vision for the future of technology and artificial intelligence on the continent. Located at Hall 2, Stand 2C 20, Concentrix is showcasing a series of innovations designed to redefine the tech landscape and elevate customer experiences through intelligent transformation. This year's presence marks a significant milestone for the global customer experience leader, with the exclusive introduction of a new strategic digital transformation division. This initiative is aimed to push the boundaries of innovation and setting new standards in how businesses engage with their clients. The company's agenda across the three-day event includes an engaging mix of workshops, expert-led conferences, and TEK Shows, offering visitors an inside look at the cutting-edge solutions shaping the future of AI-driven customer experience. A key highlight of Concentrix's participation was set for day one, April 14 at 13:45, when the company will formalize a series of strategic agreements with several major institutions. These include 'AUSIM, APEBI, Technopark, the Digital Development Agency (ADD), and Maroc Numeric Cluster', showing Concentrix's commitment to collaborative innovation and ecosystem development. These partnerships reflect a shared ambition to foster a smarter, more connected Africa, one where technology is not just an enabler, but a transformative force across industries. In line with the company's global mission, 'Powering a world that works,' Concentrix's presence at GITEX Africa 2025 signals more than a showcase, it's a statement of intent. Through close engagement with institutional partners, clients, and tech innovators, the company aims to co-create the future of digital experiences in Africa and beyond. Visitors are invited to explore the full program, meet the leadership team, and take part in shaping what comes next. From transformative strategies to immersive tech activations, the stand offers a gateway into a future built on collaboration, intelligence, and customer-first thinking. As Africa continues to rise as a global hub of innovation, Concentrix is positioning itself at the heart of that momentum, with Marrakech as the launchpad. Tags: Africaartificial intelligenceconcentrixGITEX Africa 2025
