During the just concluded #ConnectedAfricaSummit2024, Sylvanus Maritim, Chairman of the Board of Directors at ICT Authority, called for collaboration and digital empowerment as a concerted effort across independent African countries.

Now on its 14th year running, this year was the maiden summit for Africa. The four-day event was a beehive of activities, hosting dignitaries from around the globe including US Ambassador Meg Whitman, EU Ambassador Henriette Geiger, among other notable global industry leaders. The summit was officially opened by the Honorable President, Dr. William Ruto and was closed by his Deputy, Rigathi Gachagua.

In his opening remarks, Maritim echoed the wisdom of an African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together,” emphasizing that the pathway to significant and sustainable digital transformation in Africa lies in unity and collaborative efforts. “Together, we are charting a new frontier in the digital transformation journey of our beloved Africa,” Maritim stated, underlining the importance of joint initiatives to harness the potential of digital technologies for the future.

The summit culminated in the historic signing of the Nairobi Declaration, a landmark agreement among approximately 20 African ICT ministers, dedicated to enhancing digital transformation and embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution across the continent. “We stand on the brink of a transformative era in digital technology—an era that promises inclusivity and sustainability for all,” Maritim highlighted during the summit, reinforcing his vision of a connected and digitally empowered Africa.

The Nairobi Declaration sets a precedent for future cooperation and is a testament to the collective commitment to drive progress. It outlines key areas of focus such as improving digital infrastructure, increasing digital literacy, and leveraging technology to foster economic growth and social inclusion.

As the summit closed, Maritim invited all stakeholders to continue the dialogue and collaboration initiated during these pivotal days. “Together, let us boldly advance toward a vision of a deeply connected and thriving Africa,” he urged, setting the tone for ongoing and future collaborations that aim to transform the digital landscape of the continent.

With the successful conclusion of the #ConnectedAfricaSummit2024, and the strategic roadmap laid out by the Africa Declaration, the collective efforts of its hosts and participants have positioned Africa on a promising path toward a robust digital era. This landmark event, supported by high-level governmental and international participation, fostered significant agreements and collaborations that promise to enhance connectivity and empower digital transformation across the continent.

The Nairobi Declaration