Africa pushes for unified digital ecosystem at Connected Africa Summit 2026 opening
Date: 2026-04-28
By: Robert Kwaku Annor
Kenya’s Deputy President H.E. Prof. Kithure Kindiki has called for a shift from fragmented national systems toward a unified continental digital ecosystem designed to strengthen connectivity, innovation, and inclusive economic opportunity.
Speaking
at the official opening of the Connected Africa Summit 2026, he stressed that
Africa’s digital transformation must be approached at a continental scale
rather than through isolated national efforts, noting that fragmented systems
and regulatory environments continue to slow progress in building a cohesive
digital economy.
Infrastructure
development was highlighted as a foundational pillar, with emphasis on
expanding fibre connectivity, ICT hubs, public Wi-Fi access, and digital public
infrastructure to support inclusive digital growth across the continent.
The
address also underscored the importance of digital inclusion, stressing that
the benefits of the digital economy must extend to all segments of society,
including students, farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs.
Youth
empowerment featured prominently, with leaders noting that investments in
digital skills development and job creation are critical to unlocking
opportunities for Africa’s growing young workforce.
Regional
integration was identified as the next major frontier, with calls for
interoperable systems, harmonized regulatory frameworks, and stronger
cross-border digital cooperation to enable a seamless continental digital
market.
