Burkinabe Minister Aminata Zerbo Engages in Smart Village Initiative in Niamey

NIAMEY — Aminata Zerbo, the Burkinabe Minister of Digital Transition, Posts and Electronic Communications, recently visited the Smart Village Project (PVI) headquarters in Niamey. The project, supported by the Nigerien government and funded by the World Bank, aims to reduce the digital divide in Niger and foster rural development and financial inclusion. Minister Zerbo was accompanied by her counterparts from the Alliance of Sahel States during her visit.

According to Burkina Information Agency, who has been in Niamey since April 18 for Niger’s national digital week, the Smart Village Project seeks to enhance digital access across rural areas, thereby accelerating rural development through digital technologies. Minister Zerbo described the initiative as a significant and impactful project that will help Niger achieve a comprehensive digital transition, ensuring all citizens have access to electronic communication services and can leverage digital technology.

During her visit, Minister Zerbo expressed satisfaction with the collaborative efforts between Niger and other Alliance of Sahel States countries. She highlighted the mutual benefits of sharing experiences in digital advancements, which she believes are crucial for socio-economic development through digital transformation. The first edition of the National Digital Week, with Burkina Faso as the guest country of honor, focused on the theme ‘Digital and Sovereignty’, attracting delegations from Sahel states and China.