“Africa Must Forge Its Digital Future Now” – Dr. Bawumia

Former Ghanaian Vice President Calls for Urgent Digital Transformation Across Africa

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice President of Ghana, has emphasized the necessity for Africa to accelerate its digital transformation to ensure economic resilience and global competitiveness. Speaking at the Cambridge Africa Business Conference, themed “Africa’s Digital Transformation: Building Resilient Economies Through Innovation,” Dr. Bawumia highlighted the continent’s abundant innovative ideas but pointed out the lack of systems to scale them effectively.

“Africa does not lack innovation. We lack systems that scale it. We do not lack ideas. We lack ecosystems that reward and retain them,” he stated.

Advocating for ‘Smart Formalisation’

Dr. Bawumia introduced the concept of “smart formalisation,” which involves creating integrated systems that enable governments to interact efficiently and transparently with their citizens. He argued that such systems would improve public service delivery, enhance civic engagement, and accelerate development.

“Digital transformation is not just a policy aspiration—it is a necessity for resilience,” he asserted.

Ghana’s Digital Achievements as a Model

Drawing from Ghana’s experience, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the country’s advancements in digital financial services, including the implementation of a nationwide mobile money interoperability system and the launch of a universal QR Code payment system. These initiatives have significantly increased financial inclusion, with over 90% of adults in Ghana having access to financial services.

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