As the world continues to see advancements in the use of digital tools for development and growth, African countries are not left behind. Many African governments aim to leverage collaborations with other countries to fast-track their adoption of technology, and development subsequently.

Yesterday September 13, 2023, India’s Union Cabinet approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) the country signed with Sierra Leone to advance digital transformation initiatives and bilateral cooperation.

Signed on June 12, 2023, the memorandum will see a collaboration between India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Sierra Leone's Ministry of Information and Communications. It focuses on sharing successful Digital Solutions implemented at a population scale.

Key objectives of the MoU include promoting closer cooperation, exchanging experiences, and sharing digital technology-based solutions to drive digital transformation in both countries. The partnership is also expected to create employment opportunities in the IT sector.

Effective from the date of signature, the MoU will remain in force for three years. It aims to enhance cooperation in both Government-to-Government (G2G) and Business-to-Business (B2B) domains, particularly in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).

The MoU signing marks a significant step toward digital empowerment and cooperation between India and Sierra Leone, promising positive transformation in both nations' digital landscapes. Activities implemented under its framework will be funded by regular operating allocations from both administrations, underscoring their commitment to the collaboration.

Hikmatu Bilali