Africa-Press – Gambia. Digital transformation is not a luxury for modern states; it is a necessity. For The Gambia, a country with abundant human capital potential, a strategic location, and strong community bonds, embracing a deliberate and inclusive digital agenda can accelerate development, improve public services, create jobs, and position our nation to compete regionally and globally.
Why digital transformation matters for The Gambia?
Digital technologies change the way governments deliver services, businesses operate, and citizens access information and opportunities. When done well, digital transformation:
Our strengths and the opportunities ahead
The Gambia’s compact geography makes nationwide digital initiatives comparatively easier to implement than in larger countries; our young population is digitally curious and adaptable; our diaspora provides capital and ideas; and our tourism and agricultural sectors can rapidly gain value from targeted digital upgrades. Success stories across Africa, from mobile money adoption in Kenya to ambitious e-government efforts in Rwanda, demonstrate that with clear policy, partnerships, and implementation, rapid progress is possible.
Key challenges to address
To realize these opportunities, we must confront practical challenges: limited broadband coverage and affordability, gaps in digital skills, unreliable electricity in some areas, insufficient digital government infrastructure, the gender digital divide, and risks related to cybersecurity and personal data protection. Overcoming these obstacles requires coordinated action across government, the private sector and civil society.
Astrategic, people–centreapproach
Digital transformation must be driven by clear national priorities and deliver tangible benefits to citizens. I propose a strategy that rests on seven strategic pillars:
A thriving digital economy and MSME support
Human capital and digital literacy
Trust, governance and security
Innovation, entrepreneurship and financing
Green, resilient digital infrastructure
Immediate, practical steps to move from strategy to action, the following immediate steps should be taken:
A call to partnership
Government cannot do this alone. Successful digital transformation requires the energy and expertise of the private sector, civil society, development partners, universities, and the Gambian diaspora. We must work collaboratively to design solutions that reflect local realities, protect citizens, and deliver measurable improvements in livelihoods.
Conclusion
Digital transformation is an engine for inclusive growth, better governance, and resilience. If we invest now, wisely and inclusively, in connectivity, skills, secure platforms and innovation, The Gambia can unlock new opportunities for our people, create decent work, and improve the quality of public services. This is not a future to wait for; it is a future to build together.
Signed,
Hon: Ousman Bah
Special Adviser to the President of The Gambia on Digital Economy
Source: POINT OF GAMBIA
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