The Managing Director, Remita Payment Services Ltd. (RPSL), Mr Deremi Atanda, has emphasised the important role of robust digital infrastructure in driving Africa’s economic growth.
Atanda, who was quoted in a statement in Lagos on Sunday, said this at a panel session of the Hyperscalers Convergence Africa Conference with the theme: “Innovating Towards Africa’s Digital Future”.
Atanda noted that Africa’s development depends on innovative strategies that cater to the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities.
“Africa’s prosperity is fundamentally tied to the quality of its digital infrastructure and solving these problems within its context will yield multidimensional benefits,” he said.
According to him, improved digital infrastructure will enhance the quality of life across the continent, connecting Africa in unprecedented ways.
Atanda noted that expanding digital infrastructure would significantly enhance skills development in Africa, connecting more people and creating vast opportunities, crucial for the continent’s growth.
Atanda stated that Africa’s digital transformation requires a unified vision and a comprehensive infrastructure agenda, driven by dedicated promoters and community involvement.
He added that integration of diverse skills and collaboration could accelerate trade, expand local economies, and enhance the quality of life across the continent.
He said, “Continuous monitoring and evaluation will ensure sustainable progress, making Africa a significant player in the global digital landscape.”
Atanda further explained the critical role that innovation plays in addressing Africa’s challenges, noting the significant advancements in the digital payment space.
He also noted the importance of intra-African payment systems to facilitate trade and economic growth, emphasising that Remita is at the forefront of innovation in connected digital payments.
“Pan-African payments have been a long time coming. It is time to take ownership of our digital future and ensure that our solutions are designed by Africans, for Africans.
“We need to build capacity at scale and create opportunities for the continent to thrive,” he said.
Atanda called for a collective effort from governments, businesses, and educational institutions to promote a unified digital infrastructure agenda.
He proposed the creation of an African digital infrastructure investment bond to attract both local and international investment in the continent’s digital future.
Ms Wabo Majavu, Executive, Strategy and Business Operations, Africa Data Centres, underscored the need for unity in Africa’s digital transformation.
She highlighted Nigeria’s growing digital adoption, with internet penetration reaching 52 per cent and mobile broadband subscriptions surpassing 92.3 million in 2023.
She also noted the challenges of digital inclusion in rural areas.
“Despite these advancements, significant gaps remain, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure development and digital inclusion are still lagging.
“Expanding digital infrastructure to unserved and underserved regions will be key to addressing these challenges and driving sustainable growth,”she said.
Mr Olusola Teniola, Director of Strategic Business Initiatives, IPNX, stressed the urgency of investing in digital infrastructure as Africa’s population is projected to reach 2.4 billion by 2050.
He emphasised that strategic investments in digital infrastructure were crucial for future growth, innovation and economic prosperity.
Remita offers innovative payment solutions that simplify financial transactions for individuals, organisations and government entities. (NAN)
