Lacina Koné of Smart Africa discusses the continent’s digital transformation and potential. Lacina Koné is the director general and CEO of Smart Africa, an alliance backed by African heads of state and governments to facilitate technological and digital innovation on the continent. In a conversation with Rest of World, Koné shared what he has learned about the digital capabilities of African countries so far and what they must prioritize in the future. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. What have your interactions with governments and public agencies in Africa taught you about the continent’s digital journey so far? African countries have been doing well in some areas and need to improve in others. For instance, the continent is doing well in terms of mobile penetration, fintech innovation, and startup ecosystem growth. But areas that are still maturing and require more attention include digital infrastructure, internet affordability, digital literacy and skills, digital identity and services, and regulation. What should African governments prioritize when it comes to digitalization? Internet and smart devices affordability. Without affordability, there is a risk that the benefits of digital transformation will exclude significant portions of Africa’s population, limiting overall societal and economic advancement. […]
Why African governments must prioritize affordable internet and smartphones
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