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. Also, with over 230 million jobs in Africa expected to require digital skills by 2030, addressing the digital skills gap is essential for future growth and development. Lastly, digital ID and data frameworks are foundational elements for Africa’s digital economy as they enable secure online transactions, ensure privacy, boost e-payments and e-commerce, and facilitate efficient public services.
What advice would you give startups and investors looking to contribute to Africa’s digital transformation?
My only advice is to trust Africa and seize the opportunity it can offer for impact through innovation. Africa is building the world’s largest free trade area with a market projected to grow to 1.7 billion consumers, and 6.7 trillion in consumer and business spending by 2030. The African startups ecosystem is experiencing significant development that continues to strengthen — driven by the economic dynamism of several countries, and innovative youth who are increasingly encouraged to embark on the adventure of entrepreneurship.
At Smart Africa, we are working with the key stakeholders on the continent to provide the right frameworks and support ecosystem for entrepreneurs. We are also creating guarantees for investment and investors to trust the ecosystem.
