Software to fight Aids

Nigeria has procured new computer software to arrest the HIV/Aids pandemic and other deadly diseases, says allAfrica.com.

The software, according to the Minister of Science and Technology, Grace Ekpiwhre, is extendable and can be modified to handle a range of diseases including malaria and TB, as well as monitor other pandemics.

Speaking at the visit to the Trinitron Biotech facility, Ekpiwhre claimed that Nigeria is the first country in the world to deploy such analytical software. She said the system is capable of rapid diagnostic tests and offers the potential to provide acute diagnosis to all at-risk population for the first time.

iDirect Technologies, a US-based company that designs and develops satellite Internet technology for remote broadband access to enterprises and governments, is looking for partners in East Africa to vend its products, reports allAfrica.com.

In Uganda, iDirect Technologies, a next-generation Internet Protocol provider, has expressed its interest in recruiting partners through the Uganda Investment Authority.

Rash Jhanjee, the regional vice-president, Middle East and Africa for iDirect, said the need for partners is informed by the fact that the entire East African market is growing rapidly and is turning out as one of the most attractive regions for iDirect.

The Rwanda Information Technology Authority (Rita) is set to award best information and communication technology providers with its Intego Awards, according to allAfrica.com.

According to RITA, the Intego Awards will be a national honour of excellence aimed at boosting ICT growth, by recognising best performers.

The five award categories are export potential, foreign direct investment, business process outsourcing services, innovation and excellence by the ICT private sector.