African ICT Ministers Commit To Foster A Connected Africa

As the Connected Africa Summit came to a close, the fourteen ministers in charge of Technology in Africa issued a declaration on fostering a connected and empowered Africa.

Emphasizing the centrality of digitalization and digital infrastructure to modern economies, the Ministers pledged to harness digital infrastructure and technologies to drive inclusive economic growth of at least 5 percent annually within the next decade.

The Connected Africa Summit saw a convergence of African ICT Ministers, policymakers, private sector stakeholders, and entrepreneurs. It involved intensive deliberations aimed at accelerating digital transformation across the continent.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Kenya’s Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, emphasized the urgency of embracing digital transformation, highlighting the rapid pace of technological change and the challenges it presents to policymakers and the private sector.

“Our people, especially the youth are a potent resource that we are investing in for our Continent to be an equal player in the global digital and innovation space, including in Artificial Intelligence. This underscores why this Summit is timely and strategic in propelling the dream of Africa Rising- where No One is Left Behind,” he said.

Gachagua further highlighted Africa’s unique opportunity to leverage digital innovations for sustainable development, “Africa stands at the forefront of digital transformation, poised to leverage agile and sustainable digital solutions for inclusive growth and development.’ He emphasized our continent’s inherent advantage in embracing these technologies, positioning Africa as a global leader in shaping the future of digital transformation.”

Throughout the summit, discussions delved into critical issues such as infrastructure development, digital trade, AI integration, and policy harmonization. In a joint communique signed by the Information, Communication, and Digital Economy Ministers from across Africa and Foreign Ambassadors who attended the event, the leaders outlined a comprehensive roadmap for digital empowerment, encompassing agreements, commitments, and policy resolutions.

These include initiatives to integrate digital skills into educational curricula, expand broadband infrastructure, facilitate digital trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and promote AI research and innovation. The Ministers and stakeholders also reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a conducive ecosystem for digital innovation and entrepreneurship.