China and 26 African countries have agreed to enhance their collaboration and foster innovation in the digital sector. This agreement was solidified during the Forum on China-Africa Digital Cooperation, hosted by the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in Beijing on July 29.
Key highlights from the forum include:
- Win-Win Digital Cooperation: Senegal’s Minister of Telecommunications, Alioune Sall, emphasized the mutual benefits of this cooperation. He noted that it would bring significant advantages to both the African continent and China through the development of innovative infrastructures.
- Action Plan: The parties issued an action plan focusing on:
- Implementing 10 digital transformation demonstration projects.
- Training at least 1,000 professionals in the digital field.
This initiative aims to bolster partnerships in various areas, including digital policy, infrastructure, innovation, digital transformation, security, and talent nurturing over the next three years.
- China’s Role in African Digital Infrastructure: Chinese firms have been pivotal in enhancing network infrastructures across Africa. These efforts have reached over 900 million people, involving the deployment of undersea cables and the establishment of data centers.
This cooperation represents a significant step in strengthening the digital ties between China and African nations, promising substantial advancements in technology and innovation for both regions.