African bank steps in to boost digital revolution

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has unveiled a new science and technology policy with the primary objective of boosting training in digital technologies. The policy was endorsed by African leaders, ministers and experts at the Connect Africa Summit held in Rwanda from 29-30 October.

AfDB president Donald Kaberuka says the policy will prepare Africa for the challenges ahead, including the lack of trained personnel required to propel it into the digital age. In line with the new policy, the bank has allocated US$1 billion to fund various information communication technology (ICT) initiatives in Africa through the private sector. The bank believes it can implement projects faster than individual governments, recognising the key role of the private sector in Africa's economic growth.

Plans include investing US$14.5 million in the US$235 million Eastern Africa Sub-Marine Cable Project and US$100 million in the Orascom project for African satellites. Kaberuka says the emphasis on training is crucial. "You might have all the fibre optic cables but without the experts to implement them, they will not go anywhere."

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