Digitalisation: Security, Access and Innovation in the Digital Age | EurAfrican Forum 2024

The world’s digitalization as we know it has been breaking down geographical barriers between Europe and Africa. Recognizing both challenges and opportunities of digital technologies in this new age, both continents have embarked on a dynamic journey of proactive measures to enhance their integration into the global digital ecosystem.
The covid 19 pandemic has made it necessary to hasten the digital transition in education and the labour market. In these new remote models, more people have had access to quality jobs and education, thus creating a “social elevator,” serving as catalysts for the economic growth and international cooperation of both continents.
Supporting start-ups, and E-commerce is crucial for both regions to create synergies, in a scenario that enhances the growth of a dynamic digital ecosystem. This would allow young entrepreneurs and innovators to take advantage of emerging technologies, thus attracting foreign investment.
This also represents an opportunity to tackle issues like poverty, human rights, human development, equality, and inclusion issues, as well as environment and sustainability. The rise of modern technologies brings people together and induces innovation and collaboration, bringing stimulus to the labour market and widening horizons for the younger generations. Europe and Africa should look at this opportunity as a priority to stretch their relationship.
European know-how in this matter will also be fundamental to guarantee that the security issues are well-addressed from the first moment - which must be a concern that finds an answer from the beginning.
Panel Members:
- Emanuel Gomes, Professor of Strategy and International Management, Associate Director for Digital Transformation & Processes at Nova SBE, Portugal
- Júlia Carvalho, General Manager for Africa Growth Markets, IBM, Angola
- Kugesh Reddy, Director Africa, Facctum, South Africa
Moderator: Joana Petiz, Editorial Director, SAPO, Portugal