The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to co-design the Africa Digital Empowerment and Innovation Hub, marking a significant step toward accelerating digital transformation across the continent.
The collaboration underscores a growing commitment to harnessing technology for sustainable development, with a strong emphasis on inclusive innovation and South-South cooperation.
The MOU, which was signed on the sidelines of the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, aimed to empower governments, youth, and women with advanced digital skills in areas such as AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and digital governance.
The hub will also support the development of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI ) to help startups and entrepreneurs scale impactful solutions.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, the Assistant UN Secretary General and Director of UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa, Ahunna Eziakonwa, said that the MOU reflects a shared commitment to inclusive, resilient, and sustainable digital development in Africa.
“This partnership with CAICT is a bold step toward realising Africa’s digital future. By combining UNDP’s development expertise with CAICT’s technological leadership, we are laying the foundation for people-centered digital transformation aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals,” she said.
On his part, the Vice President of, China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT), Mr. LI Guanyu, stressed that the innovative hub will leverage open-source technologies, digital public goods, and local innovations to modernise Africa’s digital ecosystem.
“The Africa Digital Empowerment and Innovation Hub will serve as a collaborative platform to co-create digital solutions, build institutional and human capacity, and promote South-South cooperation. We are excited to partner with UNDP to drive digital innovation in Africa.
“This MoU marks a significant milestone in our efforts to leverage technology for inclusive growth and development,” he said.
Due to the fast-growing technological landscape in Africa, the Hub will foster cross-border collaboration between African and Chinese firms in key sectors, including health, agriculture, education, and green energy through accelerators, mentorship, and investment dialogues.
REUTERS/Christopher Ojilere
