Citizen Engagement and Innovative Data Use for Africa’s Development (DataCipation)

Project description

Title: Citizen Engagement and Innovative Data Use for Africa’s Development (DataCipation)
Commissioned by: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
Country: African Union Member States
Lead executing agency: Office of the Chairperson, AUC, African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD)
Overall term: 2020 to 2023

Context

Data governance frameworks and related digital policies are essential for Africa´s development in the 21st century. Digitalisation and innovation are both recognised as key enablers for participatory and inclusive decision-making. However, digitalisation in particular is instrumental to realise the vision of an “integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens.” (Agenda 2063).

The AU Digital Transformation Strategy 2020-2030 envisions an “integrated and inclusive digital society and economy in Africa that improves the quality of life of Africa´s citizens”. Pushing the digitalisation process presents both opportunities and challenges for governments, civil society, private sector and citizens alike. What is more, the situation is complicated by power shifts and geo-political realities at national, continental as well as global level. To encounter these challenges realistic and pragmatic policy responses and strategies are required. For example, despite the progress in internet penetration, mobile telephony and access to digital tools, emerging challenges such as data privacy concerns, digital sovereignty and taxation increasingly become issues.

Multilateral organisations such as the AU and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) are in key positions to establish coordinated approaches and promote transparent, evidence-based and participatory policy making.

Objective

Leveraging data, digital and non-digital approaches for good governance and development has improved the engagement between AU Organs, Member States and citizens.

Approach

The programme supports AU Organs in their quest to intensify citizen engagement and the role of data, digital and non-digital approaches in their programmes and initiatives. The programme is implemented in cooperation with the African Union Commission and the AU Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD). The political partner for the programme is the Bureau of the Chairperson at the African Union Commission, demonstrating the high political commitment of the AU to the programme.

The programme takes a systemic approach, focusing on implementation across three main areas as follows:

  • Connecting policymakers with Africa’s data and digital innovators for good governance and development by enhancing the collaboration and cooperation of the AU Organs and Member States with Africa’s digital innovation ecosystem.
  • Improving citizen participation in good governance and development through innovative communications and engagement methodologies; leveraging data and digital and non-digital approaches.
  • Supporting the implementation of digital policies across Africa to improve access to meaningful participation of citizens in the digital transformation and to exploit the related potentials for social and economic development.

Last update: December 2021

Additional information