“My name is Fatou M’bodj, and I am the co-founder of Raddo Technologies. Through our flagship initiative DAAR TECH, winner of the RA’IDAT 2025 program, we offer cutting-edge training in cybersecurity, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital project management. Our goal is to reduce the digital divide in West Africa by making these skills accessible and adapted to local realities.”
Fatou’s introduction is as clear as her mission. DAAR TECH was born from her determination to respond to an urgent challenge: the lack of practical digital training available to young people in West Africa.
The Spark of an Idea
“I was inspired by a simple observation: many young people in Africa, despite their potential, do not have access to practical training environments or the right digital tools. I wanted to create a space where learning is not limited to theory, but allows students to practice on real infrastructure, in order to prepare them for the demands of the market.”
Fatou’s idea was to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity. Rather than relying on theory-heavy teaching, DAAR TECH would focus on hands-on practice, giving learners the chance to work directly with the kinds of tools and infrastructure they would face in professional environments.
Lessons in Resilience and Collaboration
“The most valuable lesson I have learned is the importance of resilience and collaboration. KIC has shown me that no project can be built alone, and that support, networking, and perseverance are essential to transforming an idea into a concrete and sustainable solution.”
Through her journey with the Kosmos Innovation Center, Fatou learned that entrepreneurship is not a solitary pursuit. Facing obstacles requires not only personal perseverance but also the willingness to collaborate, share knowledge, and build networks.
“The biggest challenge was the lack of suitable equipment to set up the training courses as I wanted. At one point, I doubted I could continue. I overcame this obstacle by looking for alternative solutions: partnerships, pooling resources. This taught me that every constraint can pave the way for innovation.”
What could have been a fatal roadblock became a catalyst. By partnering with others and pooling resources, Fatou was able to keep the project alive. The lack of equipment, far from ending the vision, forced DAAR TECH to innovate.
From Concept to Concrete Reality
“Since the end of the program, DAAR TECH has gone from an idea to a concrete reality: we have organized more than 50 training courses and supported more than 140 learners. We have also developed an online platform to make our training courses accessible remotely, and we are working to strengthen our infrastructure to accommodate even more beneficiaries.”
What began as an idea is now delivering results on the ground. Over fifty training courses have already been delivered, reaching more than 140 learners. The development of an online platform has extended access to those who cannot attend in person, further widening the reach of DAAR TECH.
“My most memorable moment was seeing the beneficiaries of DAAR TECH’s training programs find opportunities in the market thanks to the skills they acquired. It is a source of great pride to see that our work has a tangible impact on employability and inclusion.”
For Fatou, the success of DAAR TECH is measured not only in numbers but in stories. Each graduate who secures a role or opportunity because of the training provided is evidence that the project is achieving its purpose.
Looking Ahead
“In the coming months, we plan to strengthen our technical infrastructure, launch new specialized modules in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, and expand our impact regionally. We are also preparing strategic partnerships to support even more young people, especially women, in pursuing careers in digital technology.”
The future for DAAR TECH is ambitious. With plans to expand its infrastructure, roll out new training modules, and grow its regional impact, the initiative is set to support more learners across West Africa, with a special focus on increasing opportunities for women in digital careers.
Words of Advice for Entrepreneurs
“Don’t be afraid of failure: every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and innovate. Surround yourself with people and collaborate: networking, mentoring, and partnerships are essential levers for getting ahead. Because in entrepreneurship, perseverance and collaboration are the two drivers that transform ideas into real projects.”
Fatou’s journey is a testament to her own advice. She has shown that with resilience, collaboration, and a willingness to see obstacles as opportunities, ideas can become realities that change lives.