Algeria to unveil Africa’s largest tech R&D centre

ALGIERS, Algeria (MNTV) — Algeria is preparing to open what officials say will be Africa’s largest research and development centre, a key move in the country’s plan to catalyse technology innovation, support young researchers and start-ups, and forge partnerships with global tech leaders. 

Announced by Sid Ali Zerrouki, Minister of Post and Telecommunications, the centre is backed by the government via Algeria Venture and involves the Ministries of Digital Economy and Trade.  

The scheme is part of a broader strategy under which Algeria is strengthening its research infrastructure — including a high-performance computing AI centre in Oran launched earlier this year — to reduce dependence on imported technology and to boost sovereign capacity in areas such as AI, deep-tech and digital entrepreneurship.  

According to the government’s plans, the new R&D centre will not only host labs and innovation platforms, but also provide mentoring, prototyping tools, global partnerships and venture-building support for start-ups across Algeria’s 58 provinces. 

Analysts say the project reflects Algeria’s ambition to transform from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-based innovation ecosystem — aligning with similar initiatives such as the “Digital Algeria 2030” agenda. 

While full details about site, budget and timeline remain limited in public disclosures, the announcement clearly signals Algeria’s intent to become a major tech hub in Africa in the coming years.