As Africa embraces the digital age, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has emerged as a powerful tool for promoting inclusion, driving innovation, and fostering sustainable development. Leaders from across the continent gathered at the Global DPI Summit in Cairo to explore how DPI is reshaping the digital landscape and creating new opportunities. Central to these discussions was the question: What does the future of DPI in Africa look like, and how can it unlock new possibilities for inclusive growth?
Through the lens of case studies and expert insights, the summit highlighted the pivotal role DPI plays in addressing Africa’s unique challenges while positioning the continent as a leader in digital innovation.
DPI as a Foundation for Economic Growth and Social Inclusion
The summit underscored the transformative potential of DPI to bridge the digital divide that has historically limited access to essential services. In his keynote address, Amandeep Gill, United Nations Tech Envoy, emphasized that DPI is not just infrastructure but an enabler for sustainable development:
“DPI has redefined how we think about digital transformation. The challenge now is to anticipate the future needs of infrastructure to ensure that we build systems that remain relevant.”
Bisoye Coker-Odusote, Director General of Nigeria’s National Identity Management Commission, illustrated how DPI is already empowering citizens in Nigeria. Through AI-powered mobile identity systems, individuals can securely manage their data and access services, all while bridging gaps created by Nigeria’s 525 dialects.
“AI helps ensure that language doesn’t further widen the marginalized gap. We’re using it to decentralize services to community levels, making information and services available in native languages.”
This example of inclusive identity management highlights DPI’s ability to empower individuals by ensuring that digital transformation is accessible at the grassroots level.
Leapfrogging with Emerging Technologies
One of the key themes at the summit was how Africa can leapfrog traditional development pathways by adopting new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). AI not only enhances DPI systems but also expands their impact by enabling last-mile connectivity.
Koka noted that Nigeria’s government has integrated AI into services like fraud detection and digital payments. These efforts have ensured that citizens have control over their data while supporting national financial inclusion goals.
Similarly, Sabine Mensah, Deputy CEO of Afrikanenda Foundation, emphasized the importance of open-source technologies in Africa’s journey toward digital sovereignty. Open-source payment platforms allow African countries to build and scale their financial infrastructure while maintaining control over data and innovation.
“Our ambition is to create inclusive digital public infrastructure across Africa, ensuring that anyone on the continent can send and receive payments instantly—wherever they are.”
Aligning Sustainability with Innovation
Another central discussion point at the summit was the need for sustainable digital infrastructure. As AI and other technologies demand greater computing power, green data centers and renewable energy solutions are becoming essential components of Africa’s digital transformation.
Gill emphasized the importance of aligning AI infrastructure with sustainable practices:
“We need to leapfrog to technologies that are sustainable, not just effective. Green energy and smart infrastructure are vital for the future of DPI.”
The conversation also touched on infrastructure sovereignty, with countries like Nigeria and Estonia collaborating to build resilient and decentralized systems. These partnerships ensure that African nations maintain control over their digital future while benefiting from global knowledge-sharing.
Public-Private Partnerships: A Catalyst for Digital Growth
Speakers across the summit echoed the need for strong public-private partnerships to overcome resource constraints and accelerate DPI adoption. Coker-Odusote highlighted the importance of engaging both local and international private sectors to enhance Africa’s digital infrastructure.
“Technology evolves rapidly, and we need private sector partners to help us build capacity and transfer knowledge.”
From improving telecommunications infrastructure to deploying AI-driven services, collaborative efforts are essential for building future-ready systems. These partnerships will play a crucial role in expanding internet access, ensuring digital literacy, and making essential services available to marginalized communities.
The Role of DPI in Driving Regional and Global Collaboration
The summit also underscored how DPI is fostering new avenues for diplomatic cooperation and regional integration. Estonia’s Ambassador for Digital Affairs, Nele Leosk, highlighted the power of tech diplomacy and international partnerships in shaping Africa’s digital journey.
“We have learned that the smart use of technology doesn’t require reinventing the wheel. By collaborating with partners, countries can adopt best practices and develop systems tailored to their needs.”
The cross-border nature of DPI initiatives allows African nations to align with global standards while creating regional solutions that address local challenges. For example, instant payment systems and AI-driven language platforms are enabling African countries to scale digital services quickly and efficiently.
Building a Future-Ready Africa with DPI
A key takeaway from the summit was that DPI must be future-proof to remain relevant. This requires constant adaptation, capacity building, and inclusive policy frameworks. As Amandeep Gill pointed out:
“The short-term and long-term start at the same time. We can’t wait for tomorrow to plan for the future—we need to act now.”
Capacity building emerged as a critical priority. Governments need to equip citizens and public officials with digital skills to manage and maintain DPI systems. This will ensure that Africa’s digital infrastructure grows with the needs of its people and remains resilient in the face of emerging challenges.
A Digital Future for All
The Global DPI Summit was a reminder of the immense potential that digital public infrastructure holds for Africa. By leveraging AI, open-source technologies, and public-private partnerships, African nations are well-positioned to accelerate inclusive digital transformation. However, achieving this vision requires sustained collaboration, capacity building, and a commitment to sustainable practices.
As Africa charts its digital future, DPI will serve as the backbone for economic growth, social inclusion, and regional integration. The summit’s discussions made it clear that the journey ahead will be challenging—but with the right infrastructure, partnerships, and policies, Africa can shape a connected future where no one is left behind.