Malawi calls for accelerating digital transformation in Africa during the Connected Africa 2026 Summit
Africa Connected Summit 2026
Written by: Mohamed Ragab
The Minister of Technology delivered Information Communications in Malawi, Dr. Shadrick Namalumba, closing address at the “Connected Africa 2026” summit hosted by the capital Kenyan Nairobi, on behalf of the African Union ministers concerned with the media, communications and digital economy sectors.
The Malawian minister’s participation in the summit came as part of regional efforts to promote digital cooperation among African countries and accelerate the transition towards an integrated and inclusive digital economy.
Boosting the digital market
During his speech, the minister presented the ministerial statement for 2026, which was adopted under the title “Uniting Africa’s Innovation for an Inclusive Digital Marketplace”, calling on African countries to move from the stage of political discussions to the stage of practical implementation of digital transformation.
He explained that the ministerial statement, which will be submitted to the African Union Commission for consideration, includes a set of continental commitments aimed at accelerating the digital transformation of the continent and promoting integration between African markets.
Digital transformation priorities
The ministerial statement identified a number of strategic priorities, including expanding access to affordable digital connectivity, strengthening shared digital infrastructure among African countries, and supporting digital trade within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Priorities also included improving digital skills and artificial intelligence, along with enhancing interoperability between digital systems for data, payments and digital identity systems across borders.
Launch of the Africa Associated Secretariat
During the summit, the ministers welcomed the launch of the “Connected Africa” secretariat, which is hosted by Kenya, and agreed to organize an annual summit that rotates between the five regions of Africa, in coordination with the African Union.
This approach aims to enhance regional coordination and the exchange of experiences among African countries in the field of digital transformation, contributing to building a unified digital system at the continental level.
Malawi reaffirms its commitment to digital integration
Minister Shadrick Namalomba stressed that the decisions issued by the summit reflect Africa’s shared commitment to building an integrated and inclusive digital economy that benefits all citizens.
He said his country is ready to work alongside sister African countries to promote digital inclusion, innovation and continental integration, in a way that serves the interests of African peoples and supports sustainable development.
He added that Malawi is proud to represent the collective voice of the Ministers of Information and Communication Technology in Africa, affirming its continued commitment to supporting the vision of “Connected Africa” and enhancing its position in the global digital economy.
