UN launches Digital Cooperation Day with Africa in focus

The United Nations (UN) launched its first Digital Cooperation Day on 22 September 2025, placing Africa at the center of global digital governance discussions during the UN General Assembly High-Level Week in New York.

Organised by the UN Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies (ODET), the event marked one year since the adoption of the Global Digital Compact, a framework designed to bridge digital divides and create inclusive digital economies worldwide. Amandeep Singh Gill, Under-Secretary-General and Special Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technologies, emphasised Africa’s critical role in shaping global digital policy. He noted that the continent’s rapid digitalisation and youth-driven innovation have positioned it as a key player in international technology governance.

Why does it matter?

The day-long program brought together government leaders, business executives, academics, and civil society representatives to address AI governance, digital public infrastructure development, and inclusive digital economies. Sessions examined issues such as privacy protection, human rights in data governance, and the use of digital tools for sustainable development and climate action. Civil society participation was viewed as particularly important, as these groups represent citizens directly and raise concerns about human rights, equity, and accountability. Their involvement ensured that the discussions reflected not only state and business priorities but also the perspectives of communities most affected by digital change.

ODET, which officially transitioned from the Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology in January 2025, structured the event to highlight how digital technologies can drive inclusion, equity, and shared prosperity globally. African countries were presented as examples of regional leadership: Nigeria with its advanced digital identity systems and fintech sector, Kenya as a hub for mobile money, and South Africa and Rwanda for their investments in AI and digital infrastructure.

Speakers included Nigeria’s Abisoye Coker-Odusote, Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission, and Kenya’s Ambassador to Belgium and digital policy expert, Dr Bitange Ndemo, both of whom highlighted Africa’s growing role in shaping global norms. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), more than 300 million Africans have gained internet access in the past five years, though affordability and infrastructure challenges remain.

The UN stressed that Digital Cooperation Day represents a shift from setting principles to implementing digital governance frameworks. Panels included discussions on artificial intelligence in arts and innovation, as well as roundtables on sustainable development applications of technology.

With Africa’s youthful population, thriving technology hubs, and growing influence in global digital policy, the continent is seen as central to shaping the future of international digital cooperation.