By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Nigeria’s Minister of
Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has held
strategic discussions in Cape Town with South Africa’s Minister of
Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, focusing on the future
of Africa’s digital economy and the expansion of digital infrastructure across
the continent.
The meeting underscored the
growing importance of leadership-driven collaboration in accelerating
meaningful digital transformation initiatives aimed at improving connectivity
and expanding access to digital services for underserved populations.
Discussions between the two
ministers also highlighted the role of digital infrastructure as a foundational
pillar for economic growth, innovation and inclusion across Africa’s rapidly
evolving digital landscape.
Both parties emphasized the
significance of the International Telecommunication Union as a global platform
for advancing inclusive digital transformation and addressing connectivity gaps
affecting an estimated 2.2 billion people worldwide who remain offline.
The talks further explored
preparations for upcoming international engagements, including the African
Telecommunications Union (ATU) Plenipotentiary Conference, which is scheduled
to be hosted by Nigeria in July, as well as the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference
in Qatar.
The discussions also touched
on upcoming leadership elections within the ITU, which are expected to
influence the strategic direction and governance of global telecommunications
policy in the coming years.
Officials indicated that
strengthened cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa could play a key role
in shaping Africa’s collective voice in global digital policy forums while
advancing shared priorities in connectivity, innovation and digital inclusion.
