U.S. Digital Transformation with Africa Initiative Gains Momentum in First Year
The U.S. launched the Digital Transformation with Africa (DTA) initiative in December 2022, aiming to bridge the digital divide. The World Bank estimates closing this gap will cost over $100 billion. In its first year, DTA invested $82 million across Africa, with a focus on digital economy and infrastructure.
DTA operates through a whole-of-government approach, involving over seventeen U.S. agencies. In its inaugural year, it improved access to justice by accelerating and digitizing civil court procedures, enabling company registrations within 24 hours, and creating a digital Work-and-stay agency for skilled labor immigration.
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency led the way, supporting 18 feasibility studies across the continent. Key projects were concentrated in Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria. DTA focuses on three streams: digital economy and infrastructure, human capital development, and digital enabling environment. The initiative has secured pledges of $800 million, including $350 million in investments and $450 million in finance facilitation.
DTA's first year saw significant progress in digital transformation across Africa. With over $800 million in secured pledges, the initiative is poised to continue its impact, focusing on digital economy and infrastructure, human capital development, and digital enabling environment.
