The East African Community (EAC) and the European Union (EU) have officially launched the EU-EAC Regional Co-creation Workshop on Digital Transformation, reaffirming their commitment to a human-centric approach to digital innovation in East Africa.
This initiative aims to leverage technology to strengthen regional integration and enhance economic growth.
The two-day workshop, co-organized by the EAC Secretariat and the EU and facilitated by the Digital for Development (D4D) Hub, marks a pivotal step toward creating a digital economy package tailored for East Africa.
It convenes key stakeholders, including delegates from all EAC Partner States, representatives from Ministries of ICT, Cybersecurity, Trade, Central Banks, e-Government Agencies, and the EAC Secretariat.
Additionally, participants from the European Union Delegation and various EU member states’ development agencies, including GIZ, MFA/EstDev, and MFA/Expertise France, are involved.
As part of its digital transformation journey, the EAC initiated consultations with Partner States in 2022, further building momentum during the EAC Regional Digital Transformation Conference in October 2023.
This conference, conducted in collaboration with the EU under the Team Europe Initiative, identified seven strategic areas crucial for advancing the 6th EAC Development Strategy, which aims to fast-track digital transformation in the region. These priorities include:
Connectivity: Enhancing internet access for all.
Data Governance: Establishing frameworks for effective data management and protection.
E-Governance and Cybersecurity: Developing secure online government services to enhance public trust and engagement.
E-Commerce: Facilitating digital trade to stimulate economic growth.
ICT Regulations: Creating supportive policies for innovation while protecting consumers.
Digital Innovation: Promoting the development of local technologies.
Digital Skills: Equipping the workforce with necessary digital competencies.
Based on these strategic areas, a joint digital transformation roadmap has been developed to guide cooperation between the EAC and Team Europe. Proposed short-term actions include boosting the data economy across borders, developing green and secure data centers, establishing electronic cross-border health services, and creating systems for a cross-border e-payment system.
Additionally, with support from GIZ, the EAC has developed a Digital Transformation Strategy, which has been validated by Partner States and is set to launch in November 2024.
The co-creation workshop aims to review progress in digital development collaboration, support the formulation of the Safe Digital Boost for Africa (SDBA) initiative, and initiate the appraisal process for a digital economy package for East Africa.
The SDBA initiative is expected to aid the EAC in implementing the Digital Transformation Strategy.
In her opening remarks, EAC Deputy Secretary General Ms. Annette Ssemuwemba stated, “This project is not just about technology; it is about the future success of our entire region. By fostering digital trade and integrating technology into key sectors, we aim to transform lives across East Africa and create a competitive edge in the global economy.”
Marc Stalmans, EU Head of Cooperation, emphasized the importance of these collaborative efforts, noting, “The discussions here will shape the future of our joint digital transformation initiatives, focusing on inclusivity and sustainability.”
Through this collaborative workshop, the EAC and EU aim to enhance the digital ecosystem in East Africa, promoting sustainable development and improved living standards for the region's citizens.
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