EACO AND Smart Africa partner to Accelerate Africa’s Digital Transformation Agenda

Kigali, Rwanda, 26 June 2026. The East African Communications Organization (EACO) and the Smart Africa Secretariat today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen strategic collaboration in advancing the digital transformation and accelerating the realization of the Single Digital Market in Africa by 2030.

The partnership brings together two leading regional institutions with complementary mandates to promote digital development, regional integration, and inclusive socio-economic growth through Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). By combining EACO’s regional policy and regulatory coordination role with Smart Africa’s continental digital transformation initiatives, the partnership aims to accelerate the implementation of impactful digital programmes across Africa.

The MoU provides a framework for collaboration in key priority areas, including digital infrastructure development, spectrum management, data governance, Internet governance, broadband expansion, cross-border connectivity, digital public infrastructure, and digital infrastructure financing. The partnership will also support initiatives related to free roaming across Africa, green data centres, artificial intelligence computing infrastructure, and capacity building for ICT stakeholders.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Ms. Caroline Koech, Executive Director of EACO, described the partnership as an important milestone in Africa’s digital transformation journey.

“This partnership marks an important milestone in our shared commitment to build a more connected, inclusive, and resilient digital future for Africa. By combining our expertise and resources, we will accelerate policy harmonisation, promote investment in digital infrastructure, strengthen regional cooperation, and support the realization of a seamless African digital economy.”