Public Management (435)
In recent years, the Republic of the Congo has undertaken a significant digital transformation, characterized by substantial infrastructure development. To successfully navigate this transition, the country requires committed stakeholders to spearhead and support initiatives focused on modernizing the nation and fostering greater digital inclusion.
The government of Congo-Brazzaville carried out a cabinet reshuffle on Saturday, January 11. Some ministers retained their positions, including Léon Juste Ibombo, Minister of Posts, Telecommunications, and the Digital Economy. His reappointment underscores the government's commitment to continuing the momentum initiated in 2015 to leverage digital technology as a driver of economic and social transformation.
Major Achievements
Since his appointment, Léon Juste Ibombo has spearheaded ambitious initiatives aimed at modernizing digital infrastructure and enhancing technological inclusion. Under his leadership, several large-scale projects have been launched. The construction of the national backbone has improved internet connectivity across the country. The launch of the "Caria Tech Village," a technology park, has fostered innovation and attracted investments in the digital sector. The digitization of public services, notably through the introduction of a digital driver's license, has modernized administrative processes.
The Digital Transformation Acceleration Project, funded by the World Bank, has also improved internet access, including in rural areas. These accomplishments have also led to deploying fiber optics and introducing 4G and 5G technologies, making Congo the first country in the subregion to adopt such advanced connectivity.
Challenges and Strategic Priorities
Despite these advances, the country needs to consolidate its progress by undertaking several projects. One of the top priorities is developing a national artificial intelligence (AI) strategy that incorporates solutions tailored to local needs. The creation of an e-government portal, centralizing online administrative services, is another critical objective. Furthermore, improving AI research is essential to strengthen the country's scientific capabilities in strategic fields.
The minister is also working on establishing a dynamic startup ecosystem, with programs dedicated to young entrepreneurs in the tech sector. Initiatives to bridge the digital divide, such as providing internet access to schools and remote communities, are central to his agenda. These efforts reflect a strategic vision to position Congo as a key player in the digital economy in Central Africa. In 2024, Léon Juste Ibombo was featured in the annual ranking of the 50 most influential figures in African tech, compiled by We Are Tech Africa. This recognition highlights his pivotal role in the ongoing transformation of the sector.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
International collaborations in the digital sector are essential for fostering innovation and sharing expertise. By joining forces, countries drive technological development, create economic opportunities, and enhance their competitiveness on the global stage.
Tunisia and India aim to deepen their collaboration in the technology sector, a shared ambition that took center stage at the fifth meeting of the Tunisia-India Joint Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation. The meeting was held on Wednesday, January 8, at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in Tunis.
During the discussions, both countries agreed to launch a call for proposals to fund joint initiatives focusing on priority areas such as environmental innovation, e-health, and geospatial technology. These projects will involve economic and social stakeholders and be complemented by joint workshops to foster exchanges and collaboration between Tunisian and Indian researchers.
The initiative builds on the scientific cooperation agreement signed in 1995 and the 2020 partnership that established the Tunisia-India ICT Innovation Center.
The collaboration offers mutual benefits. India, renowned for its expertise in digital and geospatial technologies, provides Tunisia with a valuable opportunity to leverage its know-how while strengthening local research and innovation capacities. The strategic partnership also allows India to expand its ties with North Africa and bolster its influence in key technological fields, including innovation hubs and drone applications.
Tunisia, meanwhile, is one of Africa's most dynamic countries in digital development. According to the ICT Development Index 2024 by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Tunisia ranks 8th in Africa with a score of 77.2 out of 100, highlighting significant progress in its ICT sector.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Digital transformation is at the heart of Mali's socio-economic development plans. To bring these ambitions to life, the government is focusing on strengthening the security of the national cyberspace.
The Malian government plans to adopt its national cybersecurity strategy this year, according to Government News Bulletin No. 249 published on Friday. The bulletin outlines the Ministry of Communication, Digital Economy, and Administrative Modernization's 2024 performance review and 2025 prospects.
"Cybersecurity is a major global concern as the sophistication of cyberattacks and the financial damage they cause to countries have risen exponentially. Indeed, the rapid pace of innovation in the ICT sector has led to inadequate legislative and regulatory cybersecurity frameworks," states the draft national cybersecurity strategy, which began validation in January 2024.
The adoption of this strategy is deemed essential as the Malian government aims to build a strong and resilient digital Mali, leveraging digital technology as a driver of economic growth, modernization, and prosperity. The strategy seeks to enhance cybersecurity governance, strengthen international cooperation, and foster a culture of cybersecurity through information, training, and research. It also includes measures to protect critical infrastructure, notably through the establishment of security standards and frameworks.
Currently, Mali is ranked in the fourth tier (Tier 4) out of five in cybersecurity by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in its Global Cybersecurity Index 2024. This tier comprises countries with an overall score of at least 20/100, demonstrating basic cybersecurity commitment, with government actions aimed at assessing, establishing, or implementing generally accepted cybersecurity measures in at least one domain.
The strategy is still in the development phase. Furthermore, a mere adoption is not enough. It is crucial to implement the actions it outlines. The ITU notes that Mali has a relatively strong performance in legislative measures, scoring 12.36 out of 20 in this pillar. However, significant efforts are required in other areas: technical measures (4.56 out of 20), organizational measures (2.9 out of 20), capacity development (0.79 out of 20), and cooperation (8.87 out of 20).
By Isaac K. Kassouwi
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
The two kingdoms signed a memorandum of understanding in December, agreeing to collaborate on research, innovation, and the adoption of advanced technologies in e-government. This partnership will involve sharing best practices and enhancing specialized capacities.
Morocco wants to strengthen its cooperation with Saudi Arabia, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and administrative reform. The issue was discussed last week during a working meeting between Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni (photo, left), Morocco’s Minister of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, and Sami bin Abdullah bin Othman Al-Saleh (photo, right), Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Morocco.
The initiative is part of the Moroccan government’s international cooperation efforts to implement its new digital transformation strategy, “Digital Morocco 2030,” officially launched last September. A memorandum of understanding was already signed in December with Saudi Arabia to enhance cooperation in e-government. Morocco has also forged closer ties with Portugal and Estonia, the latter being regarded as one of the world leaders in digital transformation.
Saudi Arabia ranks sixth worldwide on the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) E-Government Development Index, with a score of 0.9602 out of 1. In the sub-indices for online services and telecom infrastructure, the kingdom scores 0.9900 and 0.9841, respectively. Moreover, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) considers Saudi Arabia a model in cybersecurity, having achieved full compliance with all five pillars of the Cybersecurity Index.
Morocco ranks fourth in Africa and 90th globally in e-government, with a score of 0.6841 out of 1. The kingdom surpasses the averages for North Africa (0.5776), Africa (0.4247), and even the global average (0.6382). However, further efforts are needed, particularly in developing human capital and improving online services. In cybersecurity, Morocco is also seen as a regional model, but it must intensify its efforts to strengthen measures and build capacities.
The Moroccan government’s cooperative efforts could accelerate its ambition to position the kingdom as a digital hub, thereby driving social and economic development by 2030. The government aims for the digital sector to contribute an estimated 100 billion Moroccan dirhams (10 billion USD) by that time. The discussions remain at a preliminary stage. Even for the memorandum of understanding signed in December 2024, no specific timeline has yet been announced for its implementation.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
The Gambian government aims to accelerate the country’s digital transformation. In May 2024, the executive already established a partnership with the Emirati technology company Presight.
The Gambian Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy has partnered with the Kalp Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to developing blockchain-based digital public infrastructure (DPI). This collaboration will lead to the creation of a decentralized platform called “Gambia One,” designed to secure data exchanges, streamline government operations, and digitize critical services.
“Together, we will harness the power of blockchain-enabled DPI to deliver innovative, citizen-centric solutions that align with global standards of trust, transparency, and accountability,” said Lamin Jabbi, Gambian Minister of Communications and Digital Economy. The partnership also includes capacity-building initiatives for government leaders and training programs focused on blockchain ecosystems and related technologies for young Gambians.
This initiative aligns with the Gambian government’s ambition to “leverage technology, digital solutions, and services to ensure digital inclusion by connecting the unconnected and under-connected, create jobs, and develop the economy.” It builds on earlier efforts, including a partnership established with the Emirati tech company Presight in May 2024. Additionally, in 2023, Gambia joined the Smart Africa Alliance, which promotes the use of ICT to accelerate economic and social development across Africa.
Currently, Gambia ranks 164th out of 193 countries in the 2024 E-Government Development Index measured by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA). The country scored 0.2552 out of 1, significantly below the averages for West Africa (0.3957), Africa (0.4247), and the global average (0.6382).
The timeline for launching the Gambia One platform remains unknown, as do the precise details of the agreement between the parties involved. However, the success of the initiative will depend on the population’s access to the internet and compatible devices. According to DataReportal, Gambia had 1.5 million internet users at the start of 2024, representing an internet penetration rate of 54.2%.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
The Congolese government is banking on international cooperation to accelerate its digital transformation. In November 2024, a memorandum of understanding was already signed with Poland to develop digital infrastructure.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Qatar are exploring ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector, among others. The issue was discussed during a meeting between Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi (photo, left) and Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (photo, right), on Sunday, January 5, during an official visit to the Middle Eastern nation.
This rapprochement comes as the Congolese government intensifies its efforts under its vision of making "Congolese digital technology a lever for integration, good governance, economic growth, and social progress." In 2024, the country ranked 41st out of 47 African nations in ICT development, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), with a score of 31 out of 100. Furthermore, official sources report that internet penetration in the DRC is at 30%, compared to about 50% for mobile telephony.
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) ranked the DRC 175th out of 193 countries globally in e-government development in 2024, with a score of 0.2715 out of 1. This places the country below the regional averages for Central Africa (0.3354), Africa (0.4247), and the global average (0.6382).
Regarding cybersecurity, the ITU places the DRC in Tier 3, a category for countries that "demonstrate a basic commitment to cybersecurity through government-led actions, including assessment, establishment, or implementation of some generally accepted cybersecurity measures." The country faces significant challenges in areas such as technical measures, capacity building, and cooperation.
In contrast, Qatar boasts an ICT development score of 97.8 out of 100 and an e-government development score of 0.8244. The ITU also considers Qatar a global model in cybersecurity.
Strengthening collaboration with Qatar could provide the Congolese government with the support needed to develop its ICT sector and accelerate its digital transformation ambitions. However, the specific details of this partnership, including areas of intervention and implementation timelines, have yet to be defined. Moreover, no formal agreement has been signed or officially announced between the two parties at this time.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Mauritanian authorities are pressing ahead with a national digital transformation strategy aimed at making technology a key driver of the country's socio-economic development.
Mauritania launched its electronic visa (e-visa) system last week. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, from January 5 on, all travelers needing a visa should obtain it online before boarding flights to the country.
Applications must be submitted through the website of the National Agency for Population Register and Secure Titles (ANRPTS). The e-visa requirement applies to all nationalities except those with reciprocal visa waiver agreements with Mauritania, which include 18 countries, 10 of them African: Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mali, Senegal, Gambia, Niger, Côte d’Ivoire, and Chad. In some cases, such as with Morocco, the exemption is limited to diplomatic and service passports.
The e-visa system aligns with the government's "National Digital Transformation Agenda 2022-2025" and is expected to simplify foreign entry, potentially boosting tourism. This supports the government's 2018-2030 National Tourism Strategy.
Mauritania's tourism sector GDP generated 1.8 billion ouguiyas ($45.05 million) in 2021 and is projected to reach 2.2 billion ouguiyas by 2025, according to an IMF report. The IMF noted the sector has "significant potential" but requires development of a tourism offering tailored to both domestic and international visitors, along with strengthened territorial security.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
Last year, the Mozambican government announced plans to introduce a digital economy tax beginning in 2024. Today, the focus of this tax has narrowed, specifically targeting foreign digital companies operating within the tourism sector.
The Mozambican Tax Authority (AT) recently drafted a bill to formalize the taxation of online transactions in the tourism sector. This initiative targets platforms such as Booking, Tripadvisor, and Hotels.com, aiming to regulate the digital economy and boost the country’s tax revenues.
Currently, these platforms collect commissions on bookings made for Mozambican tourist establishments without contributing to the national tax system. The proposed legislation, set to be introduced in the next legislative session, seeks to close this gap by taxing the income these companies generate in Mozambique.
Amorim Ambasse, director of the Digital Economy Taxation Unit at the Mozambican Tax Authority, explained that although these platforms lack a physical presence in Mozambique, they generate significant revenues that should be "taxable because they stem from economic activities conducted within Mozambique's borders."
This move comes against the backdrop of robust growth in Mozambique’s tourism sector. In 2023, tourism revenues reached $221.2 million, marking a 10.4% increase compared to 2022, according to Eldevina Materula, Minister of Culture and Tourism. The number of international arrivals also rose sharply, surpassing 1.1 million visitors in 2023—a 31% increase from the previous year.
The proposal aligns with a broader national strategy to regulate and tax the digital economy. By targeting foreign digital platforms, the government aims to not only enhance tax collection but also establish a level playing field for local businesses and foster healthy competition.
If enacted, this measure could magnify the impact of digital technology on Mozambique’s economic growth. It would enable the country to contribute to the $712 billion that Africa’s digital economy is projected to generate by 2050, according to estimates from the International Finance Corporation and Google.
By Melchior Koba,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
The Egyptian government is relying on cooperation to achieve its digital transformation goals. For example, an agreement was signed in September to strengthen Chinese investments in the national ICT sector.
Egypt is exploring opportunities to deepen its cooperation with the World Bank in the digital sector. Amr Talaat, the Egyptian Minister of Communications and Information Technology, met with Sangboo Kim, Vice President for Digital Development at the World Bank, who visited the country from Tuesday, December 17, to Thursday, December 19.
Discussions focused on digital transformation, the development of technological infrastructure, raising digital awareness, and enhancing digital skills. Mr. Kim emphasized the importance of sharing Egypt’s digital transformation experience with other nations and leveraging the country’s expertise to help others achieve their digital goals.
This engagement aligns with Egypt’s efforts to accelerate the implementation of its national digital transformation strategy, Digital Egypt 2030. The Egyptian government is aiming to develop the ICT sector and modernize national telecom infrastructure, positioning the digital economy as a driver of socio-economic development.
Currently, Egypt ranks sixth in Africa and 95th globally on the 2024 E-Government Development Index (EGDI), according to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA). The country scored 0.6699 out of 1, surpassing the averages for North Africa (0.5776), Africa (0.4247), and the world (0.6382). In ICT development, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) places Egypt ninth among 47 African countries, with a score of 76.8 out of 100.
While a partnership with the World Bank could support Egypt’s digital transformation objectives, the details of such collaboration remain undefined. As of now, no agreements have been signed or announced between the two parties. Further developments will be needed before drawing conclusions about the prospects of this cooperation.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing bySèna D. B. de Sodji
As part of its digital transformation efforts, the Kenyan government aims to improve the efficiency of public services by leveraging Information and Communications Technology (ICT). The government has announced plans to digitize 80% of its public services.
The Kenyan government plans to spend 28 billion shillings ($216.6 million) over the next two years to digitize police operations as part of a broader effort to modernize the National Police Service. President William Ruto unveiled the plan last week during the launch of the 2023-2027 strategic plans for the National Police Service and the State Department of Correctional Services.
“We need a modern police service and technology is key to this. We must ensure we digitise operations, including the famous OB (Occurrence Book),” said President Ruto.
He added, “In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape and the ability to detect, disrupt, deter, and investigate these threats depends on our capacity to operate effectively in a high-tech environment. We are taking decisive action to ensure the NPS stays ahead of emerging threats.”
This initiative aligns with Kenya's broader Digital Economy Acceleration Program. Upon taking office in September 2022, Ruto emphasized his vision to harness digital technology for socio-economic development by 2027. In addition to strengthening telecom infrastructure and improving internet access, the government aims to digitize at least 80% of public services and make them accessible via a single platform, E-Citizen.
Currently, Kenya ranks 109th globally in the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs’ 2024 E-Government Development Index, with a score of 0.6314 out of 1. While this places the country above the East African (0.3903) and African (0.4257) averages, it remains slightly below the global average of 0.6382. For the Online Service Index, Kenya achieved a score of 0.7770 out of 1.
Notably, Kenya’s digital economy is projected to contribute a significant 662 billion shillings to the country’s GDP by 2028, according to the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA).
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
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The synergy between fintech and e-commerce can drive economic growth by supporting small businesses, creating jobs, and improving efficiency in consumer markets. The rise in mobile wallets and online payment platforms like PalmPay plays a vital role in driving this transformation.
Fintech platform PalmPay announced, on December 12, a strategic partnership with Jumia, Africa’s e-commerce giant. The partnership enables Jumia shoppers to use PalmPay as a payment method at checkout, providing a seamless and reliable transaction experience through direct integration with the PalmPay wallet. This integration marks a pivotal step in enhancing the convenience and security of online shopping in Nigeria.
We're proud to announce a strategic partnership between @palmpay_ng and @JumiaNigeria, bringing together the best of e-commerce and fintech to enhance the digital payment ecosystem in Africa.
— PalmPay Nigeria (@palmpay_ng) December 12, 2024
The PalmPay wallet is now directly integrated into Jumia's checkout process in… pic.twitter.com/3pl1xnIeSG
Sofia Zab, PalmPay's Chief Marketing Officer, said, “This strategic alliance aligns perfectly with our shared commitment to delivering a superior user experience and exceptional value to our customers.”
The collaboration represents the beginning of a long-term alliance between the two industry leaders. Together, they aim to drive innovation, increase convenience for consumers, and foster the widespread adoption of digital payments across Africa.
In 2023, Nigeria saw electronic payment transactions total N600 trillion, marking a 55% increase from N387 trillion in 2022, according to the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS). This growth highlights the swift adoption of digital payment systems, fueled by rising smartphone usage, better internet connectivity, and fintech innovations. The surge in digital payments is also driving the rapid expansion of e-commerce platforms like Jumia.
This partnership highlights the growing synergy between fintech and e-commerce in Africa, showcasing a commitment to advancing the continent's digital economy while promoting financial inclusion and a cashless society.
Hikmatu Bilali
The digital age is transforming how public administrations operate. In response to these changes, countries are investing in advanced technologies to streamline their services and enhance their economic attractiveness.
Tunisia's customs authority on Thursday announced the "Nouveau système d’information douanier" (SINDA2), a strategic modernization initiative aimed at revolutionizing customs procedures. Scheduled for phased implementation starting in 2025, SINDA2 will integrate advanced technologies and promote a paperless environment.
"With SINDA2, we are introducing a system that simplifies processes, enhances economic competitiveness, and establishes more transparent and efficient customs management. This project is a critical milestone in our commitment to sustainable digital transformation," Abdelkrim Abidi, Director General of the National School of Customs, said in a statement.
Designed to encompass all customs procedures, SINDA2 will leverage advanced technologies to foster collaborative management between customs authorities and external partners. Key objectives include full digitization of documents, implementation of a risk management policy, and the promotion of a paperless workflow. A central feature of the project is interoperability with third-party information systems, which will strengthen interagency coordination and improve operational traceability.
This initiative aligns with Tunisia's strong performance in electronic administration, bolstered by previous digitization projects such as TUNEPS, the national online public procurement management system. According to the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) report, "E-Government Survey 2024: Accelerating Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development," Tunisia ranks first in North Africa and third continent-wide in online administration development, with a score of 0.6935 out of 1.
Through projects like SINDA2, Tunisia reaffirms its ambition to become a regional leader in digital transformation and modern governance.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
The introduction of the e-Visa system is a pivotal step in Africa’s digital journey. It not only modernizes administrative processes but also signals the continent’s readiness to integrate more fully into the global digital economy, fostering greater international openness and economic development.
Chad has made a major stride toward administrative modernization and international openness with the launch of its electronic visa (e-Visa) system. The “eVisa.td” platform was officially unveiled on December 11 during a ceremony at the Direction Nationale de la Police in N’Djamena, presided over by the Minister of State and Minister of Finance, Budget, Economy, and Planning, Tahir Hamid Nguilin.
The e-Visa system simplifies the visa application process for travelers to Chad by digitizing procedures. Through the platform, available in French, applicants can create an account, complete an online form with personal and travel details, upload required documents, and pay the necessary fees. Once processed, visas are issued electronically.
This initiative is part of Chad’s broader efforts to modernize public services and enhance digital transformation. By streamlining international travel, the e-Visa system aims to boost Chad’s global appeal and attract more visitors, aligning with the Strategic Plan for Digital and Postal Development 2020-2030 (PSDNP). This ambitious roadmap underscores the government’s commitment to advancing the nation’s digital infrastructure and improving public services.
The e-Visa system also positions Chad as a more accessible destination, supporting its goals of fostering international engagement and promoting economic development through enhanced digital solutions.
Hikmatu Bilali
Many African nations are actively working to leverage information and communication technologies (ICT) to boost their socio-economic progress. A key focus for these countries is fostering international collaboration to achieve their development objectives.
Algeria is exploring bilateral partnership opportunities with African nations to advance information and communication technologies (ICT). Sid Ali Zerrouki (photo, right), Minister of Post and Telecommunications, held separate meetings with his peers from Tunisia, Mauritania, the Comoros, and the Congo on the sidelines of the ministerial summit at the third African Startup Conference. The event took place in Algeria from December 5 to December 7.
According to a statement from Algeria’s Ministry of Post and Telecommunications, the discussions focused on enhancing cooperation and sharing expertise in key areas of mutual interest. These included telecommunications infrastructure, electronic communications regulation, training, data centers, ICT development, as well as support for technological innovation and entrepreneurship.
This initiative aligns with a broader trend across Africa, where most countries are prioritizing digital transformation as a cornerstone of their socio-economic development strategies. Central to this effort is the expansion of telecommunications infrastructure and ICT.
Algeria currently ranks sixth in Africa among 47 countries assessed for ICT development by the International Telecommunication Union, with a score of 80.9 out of 100. Tunisia follows in eighth place (77.2), Mauritania is 21st (55.5), the Comoros are 25th (46.5), and Congo ranks 42nd (30.7).
Notably, a joint study by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Google predicts that Africa's digital economy will reach a value of at least $712 billion by 2050, accounting for approximately 8.5% of the continent's GDP.
By Isaac K. Kassouwi,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji