How Togo plans to become Africa’s digital hub

Togo, a small country in West Africa, is making significant strides in its ambition to become a digital hub on the continent. Cina Lawson, Togo’s Minister of Digital Economy and Transformation, highlighted the importance of Google's Equiano Subsea Cable in this endeavor during an interview with CNBC Africa. The Minister outlined a comprehensive digitization strategy that encompasses key policies aimed at supporting the country's ecosystem. The digitization strategy in Togo is anchored on three pillars. The first pillar focuses on laying the foundation for digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of biometric identification for all citizens, establishing a unique social registry using advanced technologies like AI, and improving digital telecom infrastructure through projects like the Equiano Cable financed by Google. The second pillar targets digitizing the public sector by ensuring that all government forms are available online, digitizing basic services in health and education, and facilitating digital government-to-people and people-to-government payments. The third pillar aims to leverage digitization to enhance the economy by focusing on key sectors such as logistics, agriculture, and banking. Minister Lawson stressed the government's commitment to creating a conducive environment for the private sector to thrive within the digital ecosystem. One notable initiative is the development of digitalization laws that offer tax incentives and other measures to support young startups and enterprises. Additionally, Togo aims to promote data sharing and utilization to drive economic growth and societal development. Google's Equiano Cable, which landed in Togo, symbolizes the tech giant's commitment to Africa. Togo became the first French-speaking country and a small nation to host this cable. The cable's impact extends beyond Togo's borders, benefiting neighboring countries like Benin, Ghana, and Burkina Faso through enhanced international connectivity. Minister Lawson highlighted the job creation potential of the cable, projected to bring 37,000 new jobs to Togo, a significant boost for the country's economy. Addressing concerns about the cable's implementation and operational sustainability, Togo set up a joint venture with C-squared, a company with capacity on the Aquiano cable. The joint venture, with the public sector holding a minority stake, aims to ensure effective management of the cable post-landing. By participating in the joint venture, Togo seeks to influence decision-making to align with its vision of affordable connectivity and maximize the economic benefits of the cable. Togo's holistic approach to digital transformation, supported by strategic partnerships and forward-thinking policies, positions the country as a rising star in Africa's digital landscape. With a focus on inclusive growth, innovation, and data-driven development, Togo's journey towards becoming a digital hub is set to catalyze progress and unlock new opportunities for both its citizens and the broader region.