Smart <a href="https://absafricatv.com/south-africa-deploys-police-as-anti/” title=”South Africa deploys police as anti”>Africa Director General and CEO Lacina Koné and EACO Executive Director Caroline Koech sign the MoU on behalf of their organizations. (Source: Smart Africa)
The East African Communications Organisation (EACO) and the Smart Africa Secretariat have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to boost collaboration on digital transformation as well as accelerate the realization of a single digital market in Africa by 2030
According to Smart Africa, the partnership brings together regional institutions with complementary mandates to promote digital development, regional integration and inclusive socio-economic growth through information and communication technologies (ICTs)
EACO is a regional body that brings together stakeholders to advance the development, harmonization and transformation of East Africa’s communications sector through cooperation, policy alignment, capacity building and knowledge sharing.
It connects ICT regulators, operators, service providers and ICT training institutions from Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Smart Africa said that by combining EACO’s regional policy and regulatory coordination role with its continental digital transformation initiatives, the partnership aims to accelerate the implementation of impactful digital programs across Africa
MoU’s framework
Smart Africa said the MoU provides a framework for collaboration in key priority areas, including digital infrastructure development, spectrum management, data governance, Internet governance, broadband expansion, cross-border connectivity, digital public infrastructure and digital infrastructure financing
It added that the partnership will also support initiatives related to free roaming across Africa, green data centers, AI computing infrastructure and capacity building for ICT stakeholders
EACO Executive Director Caroline Koech hailed the partnership as a significant milestone in Africa’s digital transformation journey
“By combining our expertise and rent in digital infrastructure, strengthen regional cooperation, and support the realization of a seamless African digital economy,” she said.
Smart Africa Director General and CEO Lacina Koné said regional collaboration is important in delivering Africa’s digital ambitions
“Regional organizations such as EACO are essential partners in translating continental ambitions into practical national and regional implementation. Together, we can accelerate digital transformation that delivers tangible benefits for citizens, businesses and governments across Africa,” Koné added.
Smart Africa added that the collaboration will support the development of harmonized digital policies, facilitate cross-border digital services, strengthen institutional capacities, mobilize investment and enhance regional cooperation on emerging technologies across Africa.
“The agreement will remain in force for an initial period of 36 months and reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to foster collaboration and support Africa’s digital transformation agenda,” Smart Africa concluded.
East Africa
