The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT), has unveiled the Africa
Digital Empowerment & Innovation Hub. This initiative aims to fast-track Africa’s digital advancement and foster sustainable development across the continent.
UNDP’s Regional Director for Africa, Ahunna Eziakonwa, led the delegation and described the evolution from early talks in Changsha to concrete agreements in Beijing as a significant strategic shift. “If Changsha was the spark, Beijing became the blueprint. That’s where our discussions moved from ideas to implementation, all centered on Africa’s future in digital and development, one driven by innovation, guided by equity, and built through strong, smart partnerships,” she said.
In Beijing, Eziakonwa and the UNDP team held high-level talks with the African Ambassador Group, the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), Exim Bank, and UNDP China. Their conversations focused on joint efforts to advance Africa’s development through blended financing for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), investment in green infrastructure, resilient trade networks, and ethical, inclusive digital transformation. Youth-led innovation was also a priority, with platforms like timbuktoo highlighted as key drivers.
At the Science and Technology Innovation Exhibition, Eziakonwa underscored Africa’s capacity to lead in innovation on the global stage. “Africa doesn’t need to catch up. With the right backing, it can set global benchmarks for inclusive and responsible development,” she said.
She also stressed that meaningful progress requires partnerships built on mutual trust, shared goals, and long-term commitment. “We need the right kind of partnerships. UNDP will continue to serve as a bridge linking bold ambitions with real opportunities,” she added.
The newly launched Hub is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s digital future by fostering policy innovation, supporting entrepreneurship, and ensuring that digital transformation reaches all communities.
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