The Swiss Embassy in Addis Ababa and Diplo organised a study launch and panel discussion on digital governance in Africa. The event provided a space for exchange on digital governance issues in Ethiopia and across the continent, including from an African Union perspective. It also furthered connections between Addis Ababa and Geneva.
Africa’s digital dynamism is growing, and its participation in global digital policy is bound to increase. However, Africa’s participation in global digital policy-making does not yet match the increasing digitalization of the continent. Millions of citizens are becoming connected, e-commerce is growing rapidly, and new digital solutions are being created.
The event discussed the role of national governments and organisations at regional, continental and global levels in shaping Africa’s digital future. It also featured Diplo’s new report on Africa’s digital foreign policy and diplomacy.
In order of appearance :
- Opening remarks by Ambassador Pietro Mona, Swiss Embassy
- Speech by Ms Myriam Said, Digital Economy Advisor to the Prime Minister, Government of Ethiopia
- Presentation of the study “Digital Governance in Africa” by Dr Jovan Kurbalija, Executive Director, Diplo
This high-level debate was followed by a Q&A Answer by Ambassador Benedikt Wechsler, Head of the Digitisation Division, Swiss MFA
