Vice President Kamala Harris has announced a new partnership aimed at providing internet access to 80% of Africa by 2030, up from the current 40%. This initiative follows Harris’ visit to the continent last year and is part of her efforts to promote digital innovation in Africa. The formation of the Partnership for Digital Access in Africa is a step towards increasing economic growth through public-private partnerships. Harris, along with Kenyan President William Ruto, discussed the importance of digital access in a fireside chat at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, emphasizing the potential for technology to contribute to industrial and technological development in Africa.
In addition to the Partnership for Digital Access, Harris introduced another initiative to give 100 million African people and businesses in the agricultural sector access to the digital economy. The Mobilizing Access to the Digital Economy Alliance (MADE), which includes the African Development Bank Group and Mastercard, will launch a pilot program to provide digital access to 3 million farmers in Kenya, Tanzania, and Nigeria, with plans to expand to other regions. This effort aims to bridge the digital divide and empower African communities to participate in the global digital economy.
Harris’ focus also extends to addressing the gender gap in technology access through the Women in the Digital Economy initiative. This effort has generated more than $1 billion in public and private commitments, with further U.S. commitments pending congressional approval. By supporting women in accessing and leveraging digital tools, Harris aims to create more inclusive opportunities for technology participation in Africa. These initiatives underscore the importance of collaboration and investment in digital infrastructure to foster economic growth and development on the continent.
The United Nations reported a decrease in foreign direct investment in Africa, highlighting the need for increased capital to support industrial and technological sectors. Despite Africa’s significant population share, it only accounted for 3.5% of global foreign direct investment in 2022. Harris’ initiatives aim to attract more investment and support the growth of digital infrastructure to pave the way for economic prosperity in Africa. By partnering with organizations like the African Development Bank Group and Mastercard, Harris seeks to leverage public-private partnerships to drive innovation and access to digital resources across the continent.
As the first female U.S. vice president, Harris is championing initiatives that prioritize digital access and economic empowerment for African communities. By launching the Partnership for Digital Access in Africa and the Women in the Digital Economy efforts, Harris is laying the groundwork for sustainable development and inclusive growth. Through partnerships with key stakeholders and the mobilization of resources, Harris is working towards achieving her vision of increased internet access and digital connectivity for the people of Africa. The success of these initiatives will depend on continued commitment and collaboration to bridge the digital divide and unlock the vast potential of African economies.
