Mr Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff, has stated that Africa’s digital identity and sovereignty are no longer unattainable ideals but achievable goals, provided the continent embraces a unified vision and strategic investment in technology and infrastructure.
In a speech read on his behalf by Shamima Muslim, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, at MOBEX Africa Innovation Awards, Mr Debrah said although Africa continued to grapple with political and economic sovereignty, the current era presented new opportunities for transformation.
The conference, themed “Building a digitally driven, sustainable, and integrated Africa,” brought together stakeholders from across the continent, including innovators, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.
Mr Debrah emphasized that Africa was not starting from zero, and that the continent’s digital sovereignty lay within the capabilities of those present.
Drawing parallels with the economic transformation of the Asian Tigers—China, Malaysia, and Singapore, Mr Debrah highlighted the role of technology in driving development and prosperity.
He referenced President John Dramani Mahama recent state visit to China, where the President toured industries, including one that is currently the largest investor in Ghana.
The visit, he said, inspired renewed commitment to Ghana’s development agenda, particularly in infrastructure, industrialization, agriculture, and human capital development.
He stressed that infrastructure remained the foundation for any meaningful take-off, citing roads, railways, ports, and social infrastructure such as education and health as critical areas.
“Without the right infrastructure, how do we even begin to speak about sovereignty, digital or otherwise?” he asked.
He also underscored the importance of industrialization through the establishment of special economic zones and manufacturing hubs, and the need to leverage technology in agriculture to ensure food security and economic resilience.
He described human capital development as the most valuable asset of any nation, noting that education powered by technology could unlock new opportunities for Africa’s youth.
Commending the resilience of Africa’s tech ecosystem, he acknowledged the achievements of startups and organizations operating under challenging conditions.
“You are here, winning awards because you refused to give up,” he said.
Mr. George Spencer Quaye, Chief Executive Officer of MOBEX Africa, has called on African nations to take ownership of their digital future by investing in
innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive policy frameworks that empower local solutions.
He said the 2025 edition of the awards was particularly significant as it marked 10 years since the inception of MOBEX Africa.
“A decade of championing Africa’s digital transformation. A decade of providing platforms for African innovators to shine,” he stated.
GNA
