Digitalisation has been recognised as a critical enabler for the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The potential of digital technologies to address social challenges is far-reaching, from facilitating e-skills development and job creation in new sectors to modernising state structures. High-performance computing, big data analytics, blockchain and artificial intelligence can shape fairer globalisation and help achieve policy goals more effectively and efficiently. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of digital technologies and skills, high-quality infrastructure and equitable connectivity as key tools to sustain social and economic activity. Concomitantly, digital transformation presents pressing challenges and risks, including cybersecurity hazards, e-waste production, unregulated markets, and geopolitical tensions.
A successful implementation of the Digital Transformation process in the SADC region will be a key enabler in achieving all of SADC’s Vision 2050 pillars and foundations.
This SADC Digital Transformation Strategy also aims to achieve or enable the achievement of key goals of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the African Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063. The AU Digital Transformation itself strategy is aligned with the UN Broadband Commission Action Plan for universal broadband connectivity in Africa, combining investment needs, sector reforms and demand stimulation required to advance to a Single Digital Market on the continent9, and the work of the EU-AU Digital Economy Task Force10.
