21 February 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Implementing digital identity systems could unlock economic value equivalent to 3 to 7 percent of GDP for African countries, according to experts at a recent webinar.
The webinar, organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), discussed the potential of digital IDs to improve financial inclusion, access to services, and trust in online interactions
 Digital IDs can help bring more people into the formal economy, increasing tax revenue and economic activity.
They can provide access to services like banking, healthcare, and social security for those who previously lacked formal identification.
Secure digital IDs can facilitate secure online transactions and interactions, boosting trust in the digital economy.
Challenges to overcome include many African countries lack the necessary infrastructure to support widespread digital ID adoption, educating citizens on how to use and protect their digital identities is crucial, building trust and ensuring data security are essential for successful implementation, and successful implementation requires collaboration between governments, international organizations, and the private sector.
African countries are encouraged to invest in digital ID systems, tailoring them to their specific needs and challenges.
