Author: Melissa Li

Melissa is a community engagement specialist at BTW Media, having studied Media Practice at University of Sydney. Contact her at melissa.li@btw.media.

Meta is expanding its AI model Llama to democratic allies like France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and South Korea, as well as organizations like NATO and the EU, after it was approved for federal use in the United States. This move indicates a larger strategy to align AI development with geopolitical interests, but it also raises concerns about oversight, regulatory compatibility, and true openness.

In an all-cash transaction worth US$270 million, Ciena is purchasing optical connector specialist Nubis Communications. The action is intended to increase its data center networking capabilities, particularly in light of the growing need for AI workloads. How well the integration results in additional cost savings and performance improvements is still up in the air.

Huawei revealed a significant update to its Xinghe AI Network Security solution at HUAWEI CONNECT 2025, incorporating a zero-trust architecture throughout its data centers, campuses, and branches. Higher detection rates and increased automation are promised by the improvements, but concerns about practical application and possible trade-offs still exist.

AFRINIC’s broken election system has left members facing annulled votes, court disputes, and collapsing trust. In contrast, other Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) enforce transparency, independent oversight, and strict bylaw compliance. Cloud Innovation argues Africa must learn from these global models to restore accountability and safeguard its digital future.


Google has unveiled plans to build four new subsea connectivity hubs across Africa under its “Africa Connect” programme, aiming to bolster internet infrastructure and AI development. The initiative expands on existing cables such as Equiano and the upcoming Umoja route, along with funding for research and universities—but how much will these investments translate into real benefit for local communities?