In a resolute stride towards digital sovereignty, the Senegalese government is meticulously crafting a National Data Strategy, poised to address the nation’s paramount concerns regarding sustainable development, innovation, and value generation.
Senegal is on the brink of adopting a comprehensive National Data Strategy, a crucial step in its digital evolution. Moussa Bocar Thiam, the Minister of Telecom and Digital Economy, recently unveiled the substantial progress achieved in shaping this strategy, signifying its imminent implementation.
Recognizing data’s pivotal role in today’s digital economy, Thiam highlighted the significance of Senegal’s position as a pioneering nation in this realm. He emphasized, “Establishing a data governance and valorization strategy is imperative. This strategy will determine how the country processes its data and governs its utilization.”
The inception of the National Data Strategy dates back to March 23rd, 2023, when the same official initiated the groundwork. This strategic endeavor enjoys support from Germany, the European Union (EU), and Smart Africa. It stands as a response to the need for a comprehensive framework governing data security and integrity during usage. The overarching objective is to harness data as a catalyst for socio-economic advancement, inclusivity, innovation, and international collaboration in Senegal by 2028.
At its core, this upcoming strategy upholds fundamental principles, including safeguarding privacy, ensuring transparency, and promoting fairness. It aptly considers the regulatory framework, data collection infrastructures like data centers, and mechanisms for data preservation and utilization.
According to Moussa Thiam, the implementation of this strategy will foster responsible data practices, fortify privacy safeguards, and spur innovation. These facets collectively pave the way for a thriving digital future, positioning Senegal at the forefront of the global digital landscape.
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