EAC, IGAD envisaged digital project set to boost economic growth
DAR ES SALAAM: THE East African Community (EAC) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) are set to launch the Eastern Africa Regional Digital Integration Project (EARDIP), a groundbreaking initiative designed to enhance digital connectivity and integration across Eastern Africa.
At the EARDIP Regional Coordination and Implementation Workshop held in Dar es Salaam, recently, EAC Deputy Secretary General for Customs, Trade and Monetary Affairs, Ms Annette Ssemuwemba described the project as a transformative milestone for the region.
“This project will create a more interconnected, inclusive and prosperous Eastern Africa. We are laying the foundation for a thriving digital economy that will benefit both businesses and citizens,” said Ms Ssemuwemba.
“With EARDIP, we are not just addressing today’s challenges but building the digital infrastructure of tomorrow.”
Ms Ssemuwemba highlighted that EARDIP would unlock the region’s potential, fostering innovation, trade and economic growth while ensuring no one is left behind as the region transitions to a more digital and interconnected future.
IGAD’s Director of Economic Cooperation and Regional Integration, Dr Mohyeldeen Taha emphasised the importance of regional collaboration in driving digital transformation.
“EARDIP represents a bold step towards a more connected and integrated Eastern Africa. By working together, we are setting the stage for a digital revolution that will enhance economic resilience, improve service delivery and strengthen regional integration,” Dr Taha said.
He noted that the project will equip the people of Eastern Africa with the tools needed to fully participate in the global digital economy.
Senior Digital Development Specialist at the World Bank, Ms Cecilia Paradi-Guilford affirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting digital transformation in the region.
“The World Bank is proud to support EARDIP, as we believe digital integration is key to unlocking Eastern Africa’s full potential,” said Ms Paradi-Guilford.
“By funding this initiative, we aim to bridge connectivity gaps, reduce the cost of digital services and promote inclusive growth.
Our goal is to enhance economic opportunities and improve access to essential services for millions across the region.”
EARDIP, funded by the World Bank, is set to revolutionise the region’s digital landscape by addressing major challenges such as connectivity, cybersecurity and access to online markets.
The project aims to overcome barriers affecting the digital economy, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Eastern Africa faces significant digital infrastructure gaps, with urban areas often benefiting from advanced technologies while rural regions remain underserved.
This digital divide limits access to high-speed internet, modern communication systems and reliable digital services, excluding many from the digital economy and hindering access to essential services like e-commerce, online education and telemedicine.
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The project will address these issues by establishing a unified and comprehensive digital network, promoting equitable access to digital resources and facilitating cross-border communication, trade and investment.
EARDIP aims to lower internet access costs and improve infrastructure, providing affordable and reliable digital services to millions, including those in rural areas.
Additionally, EARDIP will tackle challenges related to differing ICT regulations across countries, which currently impede seamless data exchange and cross-border trade.
By harmonising digital policies and regulations, the project will enhance regional integration and economic cooperation.
As Eastern Africa increasingly relies on digital platforms, the region faces growing cybersecurity threats.
Many countries lack robust, coordinated cybersecurity frameworks, leaving critical infrastructure and information vulnerable to risks.
EARDIP will establish a comprehensive regional cybersecurity framework, including unified policies, threat intelligence sharing and capacity building to safeguard digital infrastructure and protect users.
The project will also address barriers to cross-border trade and payments.
Currently, fragmented payment systems and differing regulations hinder efficient crossborder transactions, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
EARDIP aims to streamline payment systems and establish legal frameworks that support remote transactions, facilitating more efficient digital service delivery and regional trade.
