AU, Google discuss new partnerships to accelerate Africa’s digital development
Date: 2025-11-22
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
African Union has intensified efforts to advance the continent’s digital
transformation through strengthened global partnerships, following a high-level
meeting between AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, H.E. Lerato D.
Mataboge, and Google’s Vice President for Government Affairs and Public Policy
for Emerging Markets, Doron Avni.
The
meeting focused on potential areas of collaboration to support Africa’s growing
digital ecosystem, particularly in strengthening the continent’s capacity to
adopt and benefit from emerging technologies. Central to the discussions was
the advancement of the Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy, including
the development and reinforcement of AI centres across Africa.
Both
parties highlighted the importance of building AI competencies among
policymakers, educators, and innovators to ensure sustainable implementation of
digital policies. They also emphasised the need for meaningful participation of
women and youth in decision-making processes, capacity-building initiatives,
and the evolving technology landscape.
The
engagement reflects the AU’s commitment to driving digital transformation
through strategic partnerships, strong governance frameworks, and sustained
investment across all sectors.
