The East African Community (EAC) marked a significant milestone in regional digital cooperation as it concluded the 2nd East African Digital Leaders Forum on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) at its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.
Held from May 14–16, the forum brought together key public and private stakeholders to reflect on the region’s digital journey, assess the implementation of DPI initiatives, and strengthen frameworks for cross-border digital integration. The event was supported by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).
Under the theme “Unlocking Regional Integration and Global Influence through Safeguarding Digital Public Infrastructure,” the three-day gathering focused on evaluating progress made since the inaugural DPI workshop in August 2024. Discussions revolved around establishing trusted, inclusive, and interoperable digital systems—specifically in digital identity, e-payments, and data exchange across EAC partner states.
EAC Secretary General Hon. Veronica Nduva, in her keynote remarks, highlighted the transformative power of digital infrastructure.
“We are living in an era where digital public infrastructure is becoming the backbone of our economies,” she stated. “Unlike traditional infrastructure, DPI holds the potential to democratize access, expand economic inclusion, and ensure no citizen is left behind in the digital age.”
She cited Rwanda, Tanzania, and Somalia as examples of countries spearheading interoperable digital payment systems, and applauded platforms like Rwanda’s Irembo, Kenya’s e-Citizen, Tanzania’s Samia Stack, and Uganda’s digital ID and data exchange initiatives for leading the way in public service digitization.
The forum served as a space for constructive dialogue between regional governments, development agencies, and the private sector, with a shared focus on scaling successful models, addressing interoperability challenges, and closing the digital divide.
Mr. Bjoern Richter, GIZ Cluster Coordinator, reiterated Germany’s support in advancing East Africa’s digital ambitions.
“The EAC has shown strong political will to accelerate digital integration. GIZ is committed to turning that momentum into concrete, citizen-facing solutions,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of collaboration with civil society and the private sector in shaping a digital ecosystem that works for all.
Richter noted that the initiative aligns with broader international efforts, particularly within the G20 Digital Economy Working Group, where Africa’s voice—led by South Africa’s G20 Presidency—is increasingly influencing global digital governance.
The forum featured presentations from EAC partner states on national DPI milestones, including successes and persistent barriers. These presentations were followed by high-level roundtables with private sector leaders from major tech and development organizations, aimed at co-creating a bankable implementation roadmap for regional DPI projects.
Participants left with renewed commitment to building secure, interoperable, and citizen-centered digital infrastructure, positioning the EAC as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation.
