Africa's Data Revolution: How the AU's Data Policy Framework is Paving the Way
Building a Data-Driven Future for Africa The African Union (AU) released (February 2022) a new data policy framework that aims to promote the responsible use of data for economic growth, social development, and good governance. The framework sets out principles and guidelines for data collection, use, and protection, and it calls for the development of national data policies and strategies across Africa. The Importance of Data Data is increasingly becoming a key resource for countries around the world. It can be used to improve decision-making, identify new opportunities, and solve complex problems. In Africa, data can be used to boost economic growth, reduce poverty, improve health and education, and promote good governance. The Challenges of Data Governance in Africa However, there are a number of challenges to data governance in Africa. These include: • The lack of a harmonized approach to data collection and use across the continent. • The lack of capacity to collect, manage,