Musokotwane advises African states to prioritise digital and financial inclusion
By Joy Nyambe
Finance and National Planning Minister SITUMBEKO MUSOKOTWANE has challenged African countries to prioritise digital and financial inclusion if they are to drive economic growth.
Dr. MUSOKOTWANE says this will in turn empower and build resilience in the people on the continent.
He says there is a need for a resilient and connected Africa that is ready to compete globally.
Dr. MUSOKOTWANE has bemoaned that despite Africa being potentially rich, millions remain excluded from the formal financial system on digital connectivity.
He says policy makers on the continent must create forward-thinking policies to support innovation to bridge the digital divide.
Dr. MUSOKOTWANE said this in a speech read on his behalf by Controller Internal Audit, RINGO ZULU during the 2024 Digital Government Africa summit, which has opened in Lusaka today.
And Technology and Science Minister FELIX MUTATI said there is need to strengthen the journey of collaborations and partnerships between governments and the private sector to make the digital difference.
Mr. MUTATI said the summit being hosted by Zambia creates an opportunity to strengthen collaboration and partnerships in bridging the digital journey on the African continent.
Meanwhile, Smart Zambia Institute National Coordinator PERCY CHINYAMA underscored the need for a collaborative approach towards digital transformation in Africa.
Mr. CHINYAMA said African countries must move at the same pace if the true value from digitisation is to be achieved.
President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA is expected to officially open the summit tomorrow.
