Accelerating digital adoption in Africa

African countries have been making remarkable strides in the realm of digitization, particularly in the financial sector. CNBC Africa's Flora Limukii had an insightful conversation with Sarah Corley, CEO of the Alliance of Digital Finance Associations, shedding light on the accelerating digital adoption in Africa. Sarah Corley expressed her enthusiasm for the impact of digitization on inclusion, emphasizing the importance of technology in bridging gaps and providing access to those who are currently excluded. She commended the innovations in Rwanda, especially highlighting the digitization of government services by Orembo as inspirational. However, she also delved into the challenges that need to be addressed for other African governments to follow in Rwanda's footsteps. Corley emphasized the need for a focus on fundamental aspects such as electricity, network availability, data connectivity, and digital identity. She stressed that reliable electricity is essential for a seamless digital experience and highlighted the necessity of universal access to internet connectivity across rural and urban areas. The concept of digital identity was underscored as vital for enabling access to various services and products, with a strong emphasis on the importance of data security and cybersecurity measures to safeguard digital identities and information. Corley acknowledged that cybersecurity threats are pervasive and require a collective effort from governments and stakeholders to ensure data protection and fraud prevention. When discussing potential partnerships in Rwanda, Corley expressed excitement about the government's commitment to ensuring 100% of government services are accessible online, fostering a digital-first mindset among the population. She also highlighted innovative projects that aim to digitize savings groups and SACOs, promoting financial inclusion and empowering individuals in rural areas to engage in digital financial transactions. Overall, Corley's insights underscore the transformative power of digital technology in driving economic growth, enhancing service delivery, and advancing financial inclusion across Africa.