Djibouti's Minister of Communication, Posts, and Telecommunications, Mohamed Abdulkadir Mousa Heil, participated in the 6th ordinary meeting of the African Union's Specialized Technical Committee on Communication and Information Technology (STC-CICT) in Libreville, Gabon. The meeting, held on October 29-30, 2026, brought together representatives from several African countries to discuss strategic directions for developing the digital sector in Africa.
The meeting focused on key issues, including artificial intelligence, data governance, digital identity, and cybersecurity. These areas were identified as essential pillars for building a safe and sustainable African digital system and enhancing the digital sovereignty of member states. The discussions highlighted the importance of developing regulatory and legislative frameworks, strengthening national capacities, and intensifying cooperation among African countries.
Artificial intelligence was a particular area of interest, given its potential to increase productivity, improve public service performance, and encourage innovation in various sectors. The meeting also emphasized the need for effective data management, protection, and utilization, as well as the development of reliable digital identification systems and robust cybersecurity measures.
The meeting provided a platform for participating delegations to share experiences, review national progress in digital transformation, and discuss common challenges and recommendations. The participants also assessed the implementation of decisions and recommendations from the previous session, held in Addis Ababa in November 2023.
The agenda included the election of a new bureau for the Specialized Technical Committee, which enabled the renewal of its leadership structures and enhanced coordination among member states regarding initiatives and programs for developing digital infrastructure and services in Africa.
The meeting took place against the backdrop of increasing international competition in technology, digital infrastructure, and data, with digital sovereignty becoming a strategic priority for African countries. These countries aim to strengthen their national capacities, develop local technological solutions, and reduce external dependence to protect their strategic interests and enhance their global digital presence.
For Djibouti, the minister's participation in the meeting provided an opportunity to enhance the country's presence in African forums on digital transformation, exchange experiences with sister and friendly countries, and contribute to shaping common visions and directions for developing the communication and information technology sector at the continental level.
Key points
- The meeting focused on strategic directions for developing the digital sector in Africa.
- Key issues discussed included artificial intelligence, data governance, digital identity, and cybersecurity.
- The meeting provided a platform for sharing experiences and reviewing national progress in digital transformation.
Reporting sources
- Al Qarn · Al Qarn
