Digital transformation has become a key driver for accelerating economic development. By leveraging strategic partnerships, countries aim to modernize their infrastructure and create an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem.

Guinea's Minister of Posts, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy, Rose Pola Pricemou (photo, left), met with a delegation from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) on Thursday, December 12. The meeting aimed to explore new funding opportunities in key digital sectors, including education, e-agriculture, digital health, financial inclusion through postal networks, and the "Giga" program.

“The minister emphasized the 'Simandou 2040' vision, championed by the Head of State, which places digital technology at the heart of sustainable development and digital infrastructure, contributing to economic integration, resource management transparency, and Guinea’s global market competitiveness,” the ministry noted in a statement.

This meeting aligns with Guinea's ambitions for digital transformation, which focus on modernizing public services, strengthening infrastructure, and fostering an inclusive digital ecosystem. The Simandou 2040 program shares these goals, aiming to rally the nation—especially its youth—towards creating a prosperous and equitable Guinea by 2040.

However, significant challenges remain in digitizing public services. According to the United Nations' "E-Government Survey 2024: Accelerating Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development," Guinea scores 0.4006 out of 1 in the E-Government Development Index (EGDI), ranking 29th in Africa and 160th globally. This is below the African (0.4247) and global (0.6382) averages.

The IsDB could play a pivotal role in advancing Guinea’s digital transformation by mobilizing financial resources and providing technical expertise. Its support could target initiatives in e-agriculture, digital education, connected healthcare, financial inclusion, and the development of robust digital infrastructure—helping drive sustainable and inclusive transformation across the country.

By Samira Njoya,

Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji