EACO and Smart Africa Sign MoU to Accelerate Africa’s Digital Transformation
By combining EACO’s regional policy and regulatory coordination role with Smart Africa’s continental digital transformation initiatives, the partnership aims to accelerate the implementation of impactful digital programmes across Africa.
The East African Communications Organization (EACO) and the Smart Africa Secretariat today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen strategic collaboration in advancing the digital transformation and accelerating the realization of the Single Digital Market in Africa by 2030.
The partnership brings together two leading regional institutions with complementary mandates to promote digital development, regional integration, and inclusive socio-economic growth through Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). By combining EACO’s regional policy and regulatory coordination role with Smart Africa’s continental digital transformation initiatives, the partnership aims to accelerate the implementation of impactful digital programmes across Africa.
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. The partnership will also support initiatives related to free roaming across Africa, green data centres, artificial intelligence computing infrastructure, and capacity building for ICT stakeholders.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Ms. Caroline Koech, Executive Director of EACO, described the partnership as an important milestone in Africa’s digital transformation journey.
“This partnership marks an important milestone in our shared commitment to build a more connected, inclusive, and resilient digital future for Africa. By combining our expertise and resources, we will accelerate policy harmonisation, promote investment in digital infrastructure, strengthen regional cooperation, and support the realization of a seamless African digital economy.”
– Ms. Caroline Koech, Executive Director, EACO
Mr. Lacina Koné, Director General and CEO of the Smart Africa Secretariat, emphasized the importance of regional collaboration 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.”
– Mr. Lacina Koné, Director General and CEO, Smart Africa Secretariat
The collaboration is expected to 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 thirty-six months and reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to foster collaboration and support Africa’s digital transformation agenda. It establishes a framework for sustained cooperation through jointly implemented programmes, knowledge exchange, and strategic partnerships
