APA – Cape Town (South Africa) – The initiative builds on the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) $2 billion investment in digital infrastructure, which includes regional and national broadband development.
The U.S. Commercial Service and the African Development Bank have announced a new strategic collaboration aimed at driving digital transformation across Africa, according to a statement seen by APA on Tuesday.
Unveiled on the sidelines of the Africa Tech Festival, held in Cape Town, South Africa, from November 13 to 16, 2023, the collaboration paves the way for a series of dialogues on how American digital innovation can support development goals across Africa, according to the statement.
Discourses will focus on key issues such as adopting new technologies, increasing internet access, building skills, and creating a regulatory environment conducive to innovation.
The two sides will also explore how African governments can work with U.S. technology companies to develop their economies, and how U.S. companies can seize new opportunities in Africa’s emerging markets, the release added.
“We are at an inflection point in Africa’s technological advancement. By connecting the knowledge of the U.S. private sector with Africa’s dynamic markets, we aim to spur innovation and economic growth. This partnership is a testament to that mission,” said Ashley Ndir, Senior U.S. Trade Liaison to the AfDB, as quoted.
Nicholas Williams, Director of ICT Operations at the African Development Bank, recalled that the black continent has made significant investments in critical infrastructure and improved policies to create an innovative digital economy.
He also assured stakeholders that the pan-African financial institution “will help advance Africa’s digital frontiers as it forges strategic relationships, builds on historic investments and, most importantly, harnesses the energy of our young, digitally native population.”
According to its sponsors, this project will also benefit from the U.S. Commercial Service’s experience in promoting international trade.
With this partnership, they argue, the U.S. Commercial Service and the African Development Bank are reaffirming their commitment not only to building digital capacity in Africa, but also to ensuring that the continent’s potential is fully realised in the digital age.
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