EACO, Smart Africa Sign Partnership to Advance Africa's Single Digital Market
The three-year agreement brings regional and continental institutions together to align digital policy, strengthen connectivity and support cross-border technology development.
The East African Communications Organization (EACO) and the Smart Africa Secretariat have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating Africa’s digital transformation and supporting the creation of a Single Digital Market by 2030.
The agreement, formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), will see the two organizations jointly implement programmes designed to improve digital connectivity, strengthen ICT policies, and encourage greater regional integration across the continent.
The partnership is expected to support efforts to harmonize digital regulations, expand cross-border digital services, attract investment into digital infrastructure, and strengthen cooperation on emerging technologies as African countries continue to pursue a unified digital economy.
Among the priority areas identified in the agreement are broadband expansion, cross-border connectivity, spectrum management, data governance, Internet governance, digital public infrastructure, and financing for digital projects. The two organizations also plan to collaborate on initiatives such as free roaming across African countries, environmentally sustainable data centres, artificial intelligence computing infrastructure, and skills development for ICT professionals.
Speaking after the signing, EACO Executive Director Caroline Koech said the partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient digital ecosystem for Africa.
“This partnership marks an important milestone in our shared commitment to build a more connected, inclusive, and resilient digital future for Africa. By combining our expertise and resources, we will accelerate policy harmonization, promote investment in digital infrastructure, strengthen regional cooperation, and support the realization of a seamless African digital economy.” She said.
Smart Africa Director General and Chief Executive Officer Lacina Koné said achieving Africa’s digital ambitions will require stronger collaboration between continental and regional institutions.
He noted that organizations such as EACO are instrumental in turning continental strategies into practical programmes that benefit governments, businesses, and citizens, adding that the partnership would help fast-track digital transformation across Africa.
Ultimately, the agreement will run for an initial three years, during which both organizations will implement joint initiatives, exchange expertise, and develop strategic partnerships to advance Africa’s digital economy and strengthen regional digital integration.
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