In a significant development for data governance in Africa, a three-day workshop on the implementation of the African Union Data Policy framework has kicked off in Addis Ababa. The workshop, led by a delegation from Smart Africa and headed by Thelma Quaye, Director of Infrastructure, Skills, and Empowerment, aims to facilitate discussions on the implementation matrix of the policy framework among the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and regional organizations.
With Smart Africa playing a crucial role as an implementation partner, along with the RECs and the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD, this workshop marks a milestone in advancing data policies and strategies across the continent. The objective is to foster collaboration and alignment among the various stakeholders involved in implementing the African Union Data Policy framework.
The workshop brings together representatives from the RECs and regional organizations, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and exchange of best practices. Through this collaborative effort, the aim is to strengthen data governance, enhance data protection measures, and promote data-driven decision-making at both regional and continental levels.
The African Union Data Policy framework is designed to address the growing importance of data in driving economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development. It seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for data management, including data collection, storage, sharing, and usage, while ensuring the protection of individuals’ privacy and promoting ethical data practices.
By working closely with Smart Africa and other key stakeholders, the African Union is taking proactive steps to harness the power of data and enable its transformative potential across various sectors. The workshop in Addis Ababa serves as a platform to forge stronger partnerships, share experiences, and devise practical strategies for effective implementation of the data policy framework.
As the workshop unfolds, participants will engage in productive discussions, exploring ways to leverage data as a strategic asset for informed decision-making and sustainable development. The outcomes of this workshop are expected to contribute to the advancement of data policies and governance mechanisms across Africa, fostering a data-driven ecosystem that promotes innovation, collaboration, and socioeconomic progress.
