Africa Takes Center Stage In Digital Transformation: Insights From The Global DPI Summit
first session Global Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) SummitThe conference held in Cairo, Egypt earlier this month focused on Africa as a powerhouse in the development of digital public infrastructure. The event brought together representatives from more than 100 countries to call for action to leverage safe, inclusive and resilient DPI United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) At the same time, it drives economic growth.
Over three action-packed days, world leaders, innovators and policymakers exchanged ideas and strategies to expand DPI’s impact. The summit culminated in a strong outcome statement, which identified Seven Actions for Change Shaping Africa’s digital future:
- Promote knowledge sharing and cross-border collaboration Communicate through technology.
- Embed universal safeguards Ensure DPI remains inclusive and secure.
- Champion innovative solutions Develop native DPI technology.
- Empowering local digital ecosystems Thrive.
- Integrate green and sustainable practices Invest in digital infrastructure development.
- Explore innovative financial models to support scalability.
- Ensure interoperability Play a role in digital identity and payment systems through strong frameworks and policies.
“The Global DPI Summit is a springboard for strategic partnerships and collaborations. These efforts are critical to unlocking the full potential of DPI to accelerate sustainable development and enhance social well-being.” Africa Report summary.
Show success stories
The event also provides a platform for leading countries in DPI innovation to share their experiences. includes famous examples Nigeria’s Biometric Digital Identity Initiativewhich has revolutionized access to essential services such as healthcare, education and financial inclusion. These success stories highlight the transformative power of DPI in addressing key development challenges.
Africa’s vision for cooperation
In addition to individual country initiatives, the summit also highlighted regional cooperation Ensure Africa’s digital transformation remains inclusive and sustainable. Delegates call for forging New partnerships between African countries, international organizations and private entities Provide technical expertise, funding and policy support to scale DPI projects across the continent.
The road ahead
The summit was co-hosted by the Egyptian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and Co-Develop, and was supported by the Egyptian government. United Nations Development Program (UNDP), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and Office of the United Nations Secretary-General’s Technical Envoy. The momentum generated in Cairo is expected to have wide-reaching consequences as the Department of Public Information looms large on global and regional agendas.
Mark your calendar: The 2nd Global DPI Summit A return to Egypt is scheduled for 2025, building on this year’s milestone.
Africa’s digital renaissance has arrived, and the world is watching. How will the African continent seize this opportunity and redefine its future?
