Speaking at the opening of the Digital Technologies for Development (D4D) 2026 forum in Arusha, Annette Ssemuvemba, Head of the Department of Customs, Trade and Monetary Affairs of the EAC, said that the regional bloc has already laid the foundation for a single digital market through initiatives such as a Digital Transformation Strategy, an e-commerce Strategy and a Master Plan for Cross-border mobile payments. She noted that attention should now shift from policy development to implementation in order to unlock the full benefits of digital integration, including faster cross-border payments, increased market access, and improved public service delivery in member countries.
Functionally compatible digital systems will allow small merchants to make payments faster through mobile wallets, reduce the cost of currency exchange and eliminate transaction delays, thereby stimulating trade and simplifying cross-border business. Africa's digital economy is projected to reach $180 billion by 2025 and grow to $712 billion by 2050, opening up huge opportunities for the East African region.
Despite progress, challenges remain, including differences in legal and regulatory frameworks, limited compatibility of digital systems, cybersecurity threats, and a digital access gap. She added that the cost of transferring money within and outside the region remains high, averaging almost nine percent of the amount transferred, which is three times higher than the global target of three percent.
Ssemuvemba positively assessed the contribution of the European Union to promoting the digital agenda of the region through the ESEU DIP initiative aimed at developing digital transformation, e-commerce, international payment systems, digitalization of public services and information security protection. «We cannot choose any other way but to move towards digital transformation. We cannot be left behind, and the effectiveness of our efforts will be determined by real results that improve the lives of East African citizens», she stressed.
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