Accra: Mr. Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff, has asserted that Africa’s digital identity and sovereignty are within reach, contingent upon the continent’s ability to embrace a unified vision and strategic investment in technology and infrastructure. His remarks were delivered by Shamima Muslim, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, at the MOBEX Africa Innovation Awards, where he emphasized the new opportunities for transformation in the current era despite ongoing challenges with political and economic sovereignty.
According to Ghana News Agency, the conference, themed ‘Building a digitally driven, sustainable, and integrated Africa,’ gathered stakeholders from across the continent, including innovators, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. Mr. Debrah stressed that Africa is not starting from scratch and that the continent’s digital sovereignty is achievable with the capabilities of those present.
Drawing comparisons with the economic transformation of the Asian Tigers-China, Malaysia, and Singapore-Mr. Debrah highlighted the vital role of technology in driving development and prosperity. He referenced President John Dramani Mahama’s recent state visit to China, where the President toured industries, including one of the largest investors in Ghana. This visit, he noted, inspired a renewed commitment to Ghana’s development agenda, particularly in infrastructure, industrialization, agriculture, and human capital development.
He underscored that infrastructure is the foundation for any meaningful progress, citing critical areas such as roads, railways, ports, and social infrastructure like education and health. ‘Without the right infrastructure, how do we even begin to speak about sovereignty, digital or otherwise?’ he questioned.
Furthermore, Mr. Debrah highlighted the importance of industrialization through special economic zones and manufacturing hubs, emphasizing the need to leverage technology in agriculture to ensure food security and economic resilience. He described human capital development as the most valuable asset of any nation, noting that education powered by technology could unlock new opportunities for Africa’s youth.
Commending the resilience of Africa’s tech ecosystem, he acknowledged the achievements of startups and organizations operating under challenging conditions. ‘You are here, winning awards because you refused to give up,’ he stated.
Mr. George Spencer Quaye, Chief Executive Officer of MOBEX Africa, urged African nations to take ownership of their digital future by investing in innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive policy frameworks that empower local solutions. He remarked on the significance of the 2025 edition of the awards, which will mark 10 years since the inception of MOBEX Africa. ‘A decade of championing Africa’s digital transformation. A decade of providing platforms for African innovators to shine,’ he affirmed.