The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is making significant strides to enhance digital connectivity in the region. Recently, the ECOWAS Commission hosted a technical workshop focused on policy and regulatory frameworks to integrate the connectivity market across West Africa. Folake Olagunju, the Acting Director of Digital Economy at ECOWAS, highlighted the workshop’s goals, which include strengthening regulatory environments and fostering private sector investment.
This initiative aligns with the ECOWAS Digital Sector Development Strategy for 2024-2029, which seeks to leverage digital transformation for economic growth and regional integration. The strategy emphasises creating a conducive policy landscape and developing essential digital infrastructure.
During the workshop, Olagunju underscored the importance of harmonising the digital market to facilitate cross-border interconnection, which would enhance the overall digital ecosystem in West Africa. Plans to implement public-private partnerships for connectivity infrastructure were also discussed to ensure a resilient digital framework.
Engr. Wakili Adamu Saidu, Assistant Director at the Ministry of Communication, emphasised the need for coordinated efforts to establish a digital single market that benefits all West African citizens. He called for collective action to prioritise regional advancements over national interests.
The workshop also featured contributions from the World Bank, with experts advocating for shared experiences and best practices to overcome challenges in fostering a unified digital market in the region. Overall, the efforts are set to drive substantial improvements in digital connectivity across West Africa.
