U.S.-Africa DTA Makes Major Progress in First Year, Pledges $800M
The U.S.-Africa Digital Transformation with Africa (DTA) initiative, launched in December 2022, has made significant strides in its first year. With a focus on bridging the digital divide, the DTA has invested over $82 million and secured pledges of $800 million, including $350 million in investments and $450 million in finance facilitation.
The DTA, implemented through a whole-of-government approach involving over seventeen U.S. agencies, aims to close the digital divide in Africa. With 37 percent of the African population using the internet, the initiative seeks to address this gap, estimated to cost over $100 billion. The DTA focuses on three streams: digital economy and infrastructure, human capital development, and digital enabling environment.
In its first year, the DTA achieved notable progress. It expanded the technical platform for HKR and ePM.SAX, which could be a significant development in digital infrastructure and administrative modernization. Twenty-nine projects were undertaken, with twenty-two falling under the digital economy and infrastructure pillar. The U.S. Trade and Development Agency led the way, supporting eighteen feasibility studies to expand internet access. Projects are dispersed across the continent, with Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria hosting the most initiatives.
The DTA was institutionalized in its first year through the establishment of the Africa Digital Policy Council and three interagency working groups. With over $82 million invested and significant pledges secured, the initiative is well-positioned to continue its work in closing the digital divide and transforming Africa's digital landscape.
