Addis Ababa: Executive Chairman of ID4 Africa, Joseph Atick, highlighted the essential role of digital identity in driving Africa’s digital transformation during the opening ceremony of the ID4 Africa Annual General Meeting in Addis Ababa. This significant event focuses on advancing digital identity across the continent.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Atick emphasized the urgency of digital transformation, stating, “Digital transformation is no longer a choice; it’s an urgent necessity.” He warned that the world is rapidly moving in this direction, and the consequences of not acting are increasing dramatically. Atick underscored that genuine digital transformation is unattainable without implementing digital identity.
He urged nations to expedite their digital transformation strategies and adopt a “digital-first” approach, especially amidst rising geopolitical tensions caused by “unilateral, self-serving agendas,” notably from the global north. Atick called for Africa to leverage its internal resources
and shape its destiny, engaging with international partners as stakeholders whose priorities and sovereignty are respected.
Atick declared the conference a “new chapter” in the quest for digital identity for all Africans. He described the gathering as a convergence of stakeholders dedicated to the ID4 Africa movement, which he labeled a “movement for development.”
“Today, we begin a new chapter in our journey in the political capital of Africa,” Atick stated, marking “the beginning of the second decade of the search for identity for all.” He further described the participants as members of a movement committed to development.
Atick noted that African leaders are increasingly prioritizing digital transformation in response to evolving global contexts, with digital identity being crucial to this shift. “The ID4 conference here in Ethiopia is a testament to our shared commitment to shaping Africa’s digital future,” he emphasized, ensuring that every individual has a recognized identity and that no one is excl
uded.
He acknowledged the significant progress already made across Africa in digital identity, recognizing its critical role in the continent’s overall development and improving citizens’ lives. “The need is critical,” Atick reiterated. “The world is moving in that direction faster than ever, and the cost is increasing exponentially. It is clear that meaningful digital transformation cannot happen without digital identity.”
To unlock the full potential of digitalization, countries must accelerate their transformation plans by adopting a digital-first mindset and prioritizing solutions designed for the digital age from the outset, Atick urged. The ID4 Africa conference in Ethiopia serves as a platform for Africans to demonstrate their unified commitment to a digitally empowered future for the continent, he concluded.