Across Africa, the push to build robust digital public infrastructure (DPI) systems is picking up pace. But as this momentum builds, it’s vital that African governments define and implement their own priorities rather than following a one-size-fits-all model. The road to effective DPI requires: (1) local leadership to address each country’s unique context; (2) collaboration and shared learning across borders; and (3) collective action to avoid fragmented outcomes. Drawing on insights from Development Gateway’s experience supporting data and digital initiatives across Africa, here are five lessons to guide country-led DPI development while fostering continental cohesion.
The Big Picture: DPI in Africa Today
Africa’s vision for digital transformation is clear. The African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy (2020–2030) sets an ambitious goal: using digital innovation to boost integration, economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction. Strong country-led DPIs can unlock public goods and services at scale, while regional cooperation ensures these systems are interconnected and impactful.
Several initiatives already lay the groundwork. The 50-in-5 initiative brings together countries like Togo, Senegal, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, and Malawi to share technologies and best practices for DPI rollout. National projects are also underway – from Uganda’s NBI/EGI program to Ghana’s ‘e-Transform’ and Zambia’s efforts for digital inclusion. Kenya’s latest Action Plan under the Open Government Partnership embeds digital governance as a pillar for transformation.
Policies are keeping pace too. Nations such as Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Senegal, and Sierra Leone have frameworks in place covering digital economies, transformation, and data protection. Meanwhile, resources like the Centre for Digital Public Infrastructure and GovStack provide critical support for countries building or expanding DPI systems.
The Connectivity Challenge
Despite progress, Africa faces a stark reality: internet access remains limited. Only about 36% of Africans are online, compared to nearly 67% in Asia and 89% in the European Union. The World Bank emphasizes that affordable, reliable broadband is key to inclusion. Without addressing connectivity gaps, DPI systems risk excluding those who need them most.
Sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, grapples with underdeveloped digital infrastructure, affordability barriers, and gender gaps in internet access. Overcoming these challenges will be central to achieving equitable digital transformation across the continent.
Five Insights for Country-Led DPI that Connect Africa
Start with What’s There
Before building new systems, countries should map existing digital frameworks and initiatives to avoid duplication. Comprehensive assessments of data ecosystems, regulations, and skills help tailor DPI development to each country’s strengths and needs.Prioritize Local Ownership
Every country should chart its own DPI journey. Whether scaling existing platforms, partnering with private sector investors for infrastructure, or bridging access gaps (like Rwanda’s public transport kiosks enabling digital payments), solutions must fit local contexts and priorities.Direct Resources Strategically
With growing support and expertise available, governments need to focus investments on areas that will create the greatest impact. Strategic ownership ensures DPI initiatives are sustainable and aligned with national development goals.Build Expertise Within Borders
Strengthening technical skills in both government and private sectors is essential. Local expertise ensures DPIs remain functional and relevant long after external support ends.Learn Across Borders
Cross-country collaboration fosters learning and aligns DPI efforts with continental frameworks such as the AU Data Policy Framework, AfCFTA, and the Digital Transformation Strategy. Shared experiences can uphold Africa’s digital principles: protecting human rights, ensuring security, and promoting equitable access.
Moving Forward
Development Gateway continues to work with African governments to ensure digital solutions are not only tailored to country needs but also designed with the end user in mind. DPI offers an opportunity to do this at scale – bridging gaps, strengthening societies, and building an interconnected digital Africa.
Stay tuned for upcoming features where we delve into practical DPI rollouts, real-world use cases, and solutions to implementation hurdles across the continent.
