[Abidjan, 12 décembre 2024] An unmissable event for all digital players, the 13th edition of the Conference on Digital Transformation in Africa (ATDA), was held on November 20 and 21, 2024 in Abidjan, under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Digital Transition. and the Digitalization of Côte d’Ivoire. Placed under the strategic theme “AI / Cloud: What prospects for Africa”this high mass brought together the influential voices and driving forces of the African digital ecosystem.
Artificial intelligence, which has become an essential subject since the rise of ChatGPT in 2022, is establishing itself as a global priority in global digital debates. Far from the futuristic concept that predominated in people’s minds, it has become an unavoidable reality transforming our lifestyles, our economies and our societies. While around ten African states stand out for their progress, Africa as a whole is lagging behind overall. However, aware of the strategic importance of AI and Cloud, complementary technologies essential to digital transformation, the continent is making considerable efforts to integrate them and play a leading role in the ongoing global revolution.
It is in this context that the Conference on Digital Transformation in Africa, since its first edition in 2011, has established itself as a strategic platform for the digital future of the continent. Much more than just an event, the ATDAs have become a catalyst for change, demonstrating that Africa is ready to take the helm of its digital revolution, with determination and foresight. By bringing together key players in the sector, this event recalls the need to create a space for sharing, dialogue and recommendations to guarantee sustainable and inclusive development of new technologies on the continent.
For Mohamadou DIALLO, President of Cio Mag and Founder of ATDA, “AI and the Cloud are now at the heart of contemporary issues, opening new perspectives for economic and social development, but also challenges to be met”, before insisting: “This digital revolution is no longer a simple option, but a real opportunity to accelerate development and offer a better future to future generations.”
Sharing this vision, Lacina KONÉ, Managing Director of Smart Africadeclared in his opening speech: “The African continent will be the one that will benefit the most from AI, particularly in terms of inclusiveness. AI will never replace humans; it remains a tool, not a purpose. However, it is essential that Africa creates the conditions to master this technology.”
In the name of His Excellency Mr. Ibrahim Kalil KONATÉ, Minister of Digital Transition and Digitalization of Côte d’Ivoire, the Director of Cabinet, Mr. Narcisse Ekissy, declared before the assembly: “Your presence testifies to the strategic importance that all of Africa attaches to digital transformation. The theme of this edition is of crucial relevance: AI and cloud computing today represent two fundamental pillars of the global digital revolution. In Côte d’Ivoire, we are fully aware of the crucial role of the alliance between these two technologies, which we have placed at the heart of our strategy through ambitious projects such as the construction of our national data center and the development of a national strategy for artificial intelligence and data management.” Before concluding by welcoming the relevance of the Conference in promoting the sharing of experiences, strengthening partnerships and co-constructing solutions adapted to the specific challenges of Africa.
This 13th edition of ATDA was punctuated by 6 highlights:
- The launch of AI day in Ivory Coast ;
- The official announcement of the Artificial Intelligence Days 2025 (JIA 2025) in Africaplanned for February 2025 in Ivory Coast, by the International Council on Artificial Intelligence (CONIIA);
- The ministerial round table of the Smart Africa Trust Alliance (SATA)the Smart Africa vehicle responsible for implementing policies, standards and technological solutions that will boost cross-border trade and the adoption of digital services in Africa while preserving the continent’s digital sovereignty;
- L’organisation du Future of Work Forum Africa (FOWFA), a traveling forum launched in May 2024 in Casablanca, which continues its mission by fueling reflection on new models and innovative practices to build the future of work in Africa;
- The signing of partnership between Clever Cloud and DataConnect Africawhich marks a key step in the creation of a sovereign and secure cloud in Ivory Coast;
- The presentation of the 10 recommendations resulting from these two days of discussionproviding a valuable roadmap to accelerate Africa’s inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.
This 13th edition of ATDA stands out as an invitation to collective action to build, together, an Africa where technology becomes a driver of shared and sustainable prosperity.
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