Policy position paper Towards a digital economy policy framework for Africa

Abstract

The document is a policy position paper by the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) aimed at developing a digital economy policy framework for Africa. It provides a situational analysis of the digital economy landscape in Africa, highlighting the current state, challenges, and opportunities. The paper discusses the roles of various stakeholders, including African and global actors, in promoting the digital economy. Key challenges identified include inadequate digital infrastructure, regulatory issues, unsupportive taxation frameworks, and exclusion of certain population segments. The paper emphasizes the need for coordinated efforts, data collection, and the implementation of supportive policies to accelerate the growth of the digital economy in Africa. Recommendations include defining the digital economy, establishing a common framework for data collection, creating a multi-stakeholder platform, and developing a treaty-level framework for the digital economy.