Industry leaders, policymakers, and technology stakeholders have called for urgent reforms to eliminate structural and regulatory barriers hindering Africa’s digital transformation, as the 15th Connected Africa Summit continues in Nairobi.
Call for Unified Digital Market
Speaking at the summit held at the Edge Convention Centre, stakeholders emphasised Africa’s strong potential to build a unified digital market. With a youthful population, rising digital adoption, and expanding infrastructure, the continent is seen as ripe for accelerated digital growth.
However, speakers noted that fragmented policies and limited coordination across countries remain key obstacles. They called for harmonised regulations and stronger cross-border collaboration to unlock seamless connectivity and drive inclusive digital economies.
Public-Private Collaboration Takes Centre Stage
Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships between governments and the private sector.
“To unlock Africa’s full potential, we must deepen collaboration between governments and the private sector. By working together, we can create enabling policies, invest in the right infrastructure, and accelerate public sector digitisation in a way that is inclusive, scalable, and impactful for millions of Africans,” he said during a panel discussion.
Safaricom Showcases Integrated Digital Solutions
At the summit, Safaricom highlighted its converged services model, which integrates its Enterprise Business, Financial Services, Public Sector Digitisation & Transformation (PSDT), and Technology divisions.
This cross-functional approach positions the company as a strategic partner for governments, enabling the delivery of secure, scalable, and citizen-centred digital solutions across the continent.
Government Backs Inclusive Digital Transformation
Kithure Kindiki, Kenya’s Deputy President, reinforced the importance of inclusive dialogue and partnerships in advancing the digital agenda.
“The public sector does not have a monopoly on resources. To achieve inclusion in the digital market, we must collaborate with the private sector and the citizens themselves,” he said.
Renewed Push for Coordinated Action
As the summit enters its third day, participants are calling for renewed commitment to collective action. Leaders stressed that Africa’s digital future will depend on coordinated efforts, policy alignment, and a shared vision for a fully connected continent.
The Connected Africa Summit continues to serve as a key platform for shaping the continent’s digital transformation agenda, bringing together stakeholders committed to building a more integrated and digitally empowered Africa.