In recent years, the importance of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has become increasingly apparent as African nations strive to leverage technology to drive economic development and improve the lives of their citizens. At the forefront of this movement is Emmanuel Khisa, Africa Director for the Centre for Digital Public Infrastructure (CDPI), a pro bono tech advisory facility housed within India’s International Institute of Information Technology. Khisa has been instrumental in guiding African governments through the complexities of designing and implementing DPI solutions that are inclusive, interoperable, and sustainable.
In the interview, Khisa sheds light on the organization’s work, particularly its efforts in Zambia, one of the African nations leading the way in DPI development. He emphasizes the critical role that infrastructure, political will, and locally appropriate technology solutions play in the success of DPI initiatives across the continent.
The Role of CDPI in Africa’s Digital Transformation
CDPI’s primary mission is to assist countries in the Global South, including many African nations, in developing robust and effective DPI. The organization offers pro bono advisory services, helping governments design systems that are open, interoperable, and privacy-conscious. Khisa explains that this approach ensures that the systems created are not only technologically advanced but also accessible to the broader population, particularly the financially and socially excluded.
In Africa, CDPI has been working with several countries, with Zambia taking the lead in embracing DPI solutions. Other countries such as Uganda, Nigeria, Malawi, Namibia, Ethiopia, and Tanzania are also part of the initiative.
Zambia’s Success with eKYC and DPI
Zambia’s experience is a standout example of how effective DPI can drive positive change. Khisa highlights Zambia’s adoption of electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) systems, which have been used not only in the banking sector but also in digital health and social protection programs. The eKYC system allows the Zambian government to verify identities quickly and efficiently, enabling them to provide critical services such as drought relief to the country’s most vulnerable populations.
Despite facing significant challenges, including the worst drought in 100 years and frequent power outages due to the country’s reliance on hydroelectric power, Zambia has remained committed to advancing its digital infrastructure. The government has worked to mitigate these challenges by partnering with China on large-scale solar power projects and adopting innovative solutions like Starlink to improve internet connectivity.
Zambia’s dedication to DPI has paid off, with eKYC being used in areas like student loan applications and social protection, proving that digital infrastructure can support diverse needs, even in a challenging environment.
Infrastructure and Political Will: The Keys to DPI Success
While Zambia’s story is one of success, Khisa is quick to point out that DPI initiatives require more than just technological solutions—they also need strong infrastructure and unwavering political commitment. In Zambia’s case, the government’s willingness to prioritize critical infrastructure, such as the Infotow telecoms tower network, has been a key factor in enabling DPI to thrive.
Khisa also stresses the importance of leadership in driving DPI adoption. Political will, he notes, is often the difference between success and failure in these initiatives. Without champions at the highest levels of government, it can be difficult to marshal the resources and support needed to implement large-scale digital projects.
The Potential of Wireless Solutions and Low-Tech Innovation
As African nations work to expand their digital infrastructure, Khisa believes that wireless solutions will play an increasingly important role. He notes that in many cases, wireless technology is capable of delivering the high speeds needed for DPI, even in vast and rural areas. This makes it a viable alternative to more expensive and logistically challenging broadband cable installations.
Moreover, Khisa highlights the importance of low-tech solutions in expanding access to digital services. He points to the success of mobile money systems, which operate on feature phones using USSD technology, as a prime example of how innovation can thrive even in areas with limited smartphone penetration. By designing solutions that work on basic devices, countries can ensure that digital services reach the most marginalized populations, such as those in rural areas or with low incomes.
Africa’s Unique Context: Local Solutions for Local Challenges
One of Khisa’s core messages is that Africa’s DPI must be built with the continent’s unique challenges in mind. Africa is not a monolithic region—each country has its own needs, resources, and infrastructure. What works in one nation may not work in another. This is why CDPI tailors its approach to each country, ensuring that local developers and stakeholders are involved in the process.
Khisa emphasizes the importance of empowering local tech talent to build solutions for their own communities. “Nobody is coming to save Africa,” he states, underscoring the need for African nations to take ownership of their digital futures. By fostering a belief in the continent’s ability to solve its own problems, Khisa hopes to see more homegrown solutions that are better suited to Africa’s realities.
Kenya’s Role as a Tech Leader and the Need for Leadership
Kenya, often referred to as the “Silicon Savannah” for its leadership in tech innovation, has played a key role in Africa’s digital journey. However, Khisa warns that the country risks losing its edge if it does not address a leadership gap in the tech sector. While Kenya has a wealth of talent and a strong history of innovation, Khisa believes that stronger political and industry leadership is needed to help the next generation of developers build solutions that can scale across the continent.
At a recent hackathon in Kenya, Khisa was impressed by the talent and creativity of the young developers he met, but he also saw the need for more support and guidance from leaders who can help these innovators bring their ideas to fruition.
The Future of DPI in Africa
Emmanuel Khisa’s insights offer a compelling look at the future of DPI in Africa. While challenges like power shortages and limited smartphone access remain, countries like Zambia are proving that with the right infrastructure, political will, and locally tailored solutions, DPI can be a game-changer for African development.
As more nations across the continent work to build their digital infrastructure, CDPI stands ready to offer its expertise and support, helping African governments create systems that are inclusive, interoperable, and designed to meet the unique needs of their populations. With continued investment in both infrastructure and leadership, Africa has the potential to lead the world in digital public innovation, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.