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East Africa Frontline News

NextFrontier Africa is a media platform spotlighting Africa’s emerging opportunities in technology, tourism, aviation, agriculture, health, logistics, real estate, trade, education, and e-commerce.

January 04.2025

2 Minutes Read

Emmanuel Khisa Champions Africa's Digital Transformation Through Strategic Public Infrastructure

Man gesturing while speaking, elegant interior setting, digital public infrastructure discussion.

The Rise of Digital Public Infrastructure in Africa

The digital transformation across Africa is gathering remarkable momentum, spearheaded by visionaries like Emmanuel Khisa, who is driving change through innovative Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) strategies. Serving as Africa Director for the Centre for Digital Public Infrastructure (CDPI), Khisa is at the helm of revolutionizing how African nations such as Zambia are developing and deploying DPI to catalyze economic growth and improve public service delivery.

Zambia: A Trailblazer in Digital Innovation

Zambia's strategic embrace of DPI, particularly their implementation of an electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) system, has set a benchmark for other nations on the continent. This system exemplifies efficient identity verification, extending its utility beyond banking to enhance digital health services and social protection efforts. Moreover, in the face of severe drought conditions and power shortages, Zambia's commitment to improving digital infrastructure remains steadfast, benefiting from solutions like solar power and enhanced connectivity via Starlink. This perseverance underscores Zambia's commitment to leveraging technology even amidst adversities.

Critical Components of DPI Success: Infrastructure and Political Will

Emmanuel Khisa underscores that robust digital ecosystems require more than just advanced technology—they demand substantial infrastructure and unwavering political resolve. For Zambia, investing in pivotal projects such as the Infotow telecoms tower network has been crucial. Khisa also emphasizes that the dedication of government leaders is vital; the enthusiasm and prioritization of DPI by political leaders can often differentiate success from stagnation.

Powerful Lessons for the Future

Zambia’s advancements provide crucial insights into the future of digital infrastructure in Africa. Countries aiming to replicate Zambia's success should focus on integrating strong political leadership with the strategic deployment of DPI. As more African countries join this digital revolution, the ripple effect can turn aspirations into realities, empowering populations and transforming economies continent-wide.

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Emmanuel Khisa Champions Africa's Digital Transformation Through Strategic Public Infrastructure

The Rise of Digital Public Infrastructure in Africa

Zambia: A Trailblazer in Digital Innovation

Critical Components of DPI Success: Infrastructure and Political Will

Powerful Lessons for the Future

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