Join Wilson Center Africa Program’s webcast event, “Africa’s Digital Transformation in the Age of Coronavirus”

Thursday, May 7, 2020 from 9:30-11:00 AM EDT. You may view the webcast here on the day of the event.

The spread of COVID-19 and subsequent move of much public and private sector work—including governments, businesses, and schools—to the digital space has exposed the global digital divide, in which millions still lack access to affordable or reliable internet and digital services. A report by the Bank of International Settlements stated that the COVID-19 crisis could accelerate moves to digital currencies, which could boost financial inclusion but also risks excluding the unbanked and informal economy workers, of which there are millions in Africa. This event will examine the current state of economic digitization in Africa and challenges to, and potential for, transforming African economies through digitization. It will consider opportunities for digital adoption, and how the private and public sectors can work together to achieve them. Finally, it will speak to the policy and regulatory dimensions necessary to ensure that digital innovations and initiatives thrive.

Speakers

Dr. Tim Kelly
Lead ICT Policy Specialist, Transport and ICT, World Bank Group, Kenya

Ms. Meg King
Director, Science and Technology Innovation Program and, Strategic and National Security Advisor to Wilson Center’s CEO and President, Wilson Center

Ms. Viola Llewellyn
Co-Founder and President, Ovamba Solutions, Inc.

Additional speakers TBC