The CTO Joins the Coalition for Digital Africa

In June 2024, the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) joined the Coalition for Digital Africa at a meeting in Kigali, Rwanda. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the CTO's ongoing efforts to promote digital transformation across the Commonwealth and beyond.

 

A Legacy of Innovation

The CTO's journey began over a century ago with the establishment of the Pacific Cable Board in 1901. Since then, the organisation has evolved in step with technological advancements, adapting its mission to meet the changing needs of its members.

 

Embracing the Digital Age

As the oldest Commonwealth intergovernmental organisation, the CTO has consistently championed the adoption and development of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). With a diverse membership spanning 33 countries, the CTO has played a crucial role in building technological capacity and creating enabling environments for ICT growth.

 

Navigating Global Challenges

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 presented unprecedented challenges, prompting CTO members to accelerate their digital transformation efforts. In response, the CTO has redefined its mandate, focusing on supporting effective ICT adoption to accelerate digital transformation and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

 

Joining Forces with the Coalition for Digital Africa

The CTO's partnership with the Coalition for Digital Africa aligns perfectly with its mission to expand internet access and digital capabilities across the continent. This collaboration will leverage the CTO's extensive experience in ICT development and the Coalition's focus on stakeholder engagement to drive digital growth in Africa. The Coalition for Digital Africa is an ICANN initiative launched in 2022. Its partners work together to support the development of robust and secure Internet infrastructure in Africa. The Coalition seeks to expand the reach of information and knowledge while avoiding duplication of efforts. By joining the Coalition, the CTO demonstrates its commitment to fostering digital innovation and inclusion in Africa and across the Commonwealth nations. This partnership promises to accelerate the realisation of a more connected and digitally empowered Africa, building on the CTO's rich history of telecommunications leadership and its vision for a digitally transformed future.

 

In 2025, the CTO will focus several key initiatives to advance digital development in Africa and across the Commonwealth:

1. Public Awareness and Education

• Commonwealth Digital Roadshow: A customised campaign to educate citizens on technology's transformative potential.
• FutureScape: An immersive digital experience showcasing life in a futuristic digital country.

 

2. Training Initiatives

• Capacity Building for Development Impact: Tailored courses focusing on critical thinking and problem-solving.
• Transformative Leadership Programme: A masterclass for developing impactful leaders in the modern technological landscape.

 

3. Digital Transformation Support

Comprehensive assistance for members' digital transformation programmes, including efforts to achieve affordable universal broadband connectivity through partnerships with various stakeholders.

 

4. Digital Week 2025, Gibraltar

From February 24-28, 2025, the CTO will host Digital Week in Gibraltar, a comprehensive event focusing on digital transformation and connectivity. This event will aim to foster international cooperation and knowledge exchange in accelerating digital development across the Commonwealth and beyond. The programme will include:

• Digital Transformation Forum: A platform for discussing innovative strategies and best practices for accelerating digital transformation.
• Dialogue on Connectivity and Digital Sovereignty: Exploring the intersection of universal connectivity and national digital autonomy.
• Ministerial Alliance for Digital Nations Session: High-level discussions among government leaders on collaborative digital initiatives.
• Heads of International Organisation Session: Bringing together leaders from global institutions to address digital challenges and opportunities.
• Networking Activities: Facilitating connections and collaboration among attendees from various sectors and regions.

 

In conclusion, the CTO's partnership with the Coalition for Digital Africa represents a pivotal moment in its ongoing commitment to enhancing digital capabilities and fostering innovation across the Commonwealth. By leveraging its extensive experience in ICT development and collaborating with diverse stakeholders, the CTO aims to address the digital divide and promote sustainable growth in the region. As the CTO continues to navigate the complexities of the digital age, its efforts will be crucial in shaping a more connected and digitally empowered future for all member nations. The CTO is looking forward to collaborating with Coalition partners to further enhance the effectiveness of their initiatives.