East African governments target six pillars for digital economic growth
East African governments have identified six key sectors in developing and promoting digital economic growth and collaboration in the region.
These identified areas are cyber security, digital skills, innovation, digital infrastructure connectivity, entrepreneurship, and digital services, The Citizen reports.
The investment planner at the National Planning Authority in Uganda, Mark Kabirizi speaking at the East Africa Regional Digitalisation Conference in Arusha, Tanzania said, “There is a need for East Africa to have a joint effort in improving infrastructure, as whatever app or solution is created in Tanzania will also help Ugandans.”
Head of technical services at the ICT Commission of Tanzania, Jasson Ndanguzi highlighted further his country’s efforts in aligning policies with the digital framework in the region.
“It is vital to be aware of the thinking and visions of stakeholders in the digital ecosystem on the digital transformation journey…we look at this East Africa regional digitalization conference as one of the important platforms to re-think and brainstorm on the relevant approaches that can establish collaborative frameworks that can catalyze the growth of the digital economy in Tanzania and the regional bloc,” Ndanguzi is quoted to have said.
Officials say East African governments capitalizing on identified areas will enhance digital innovation, digital literacy, skill development and investment.
The Executive Director of Civil Society Organization, Carol Ndosi added that, “our journey has been one of passion, dedication and the unwavering belief that the digital economy and emerging technologies hold the key to sustainable development. Our programmes have reached over 1,000 youth and women in the last four years across Tanzania.”
