The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) has announced the further expansion of its membership by welcoming the Republic of Rwanda as a member state. The announcement means that the DCO, a multilateral organization dedicated to enabling a globally inclusive digital economy, now represents more than half a billion people globally following its establishment in November 2020.
The organization, which also includes Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan and Nigeria, came together with the intention to digitally transform and put hands in hands to prosper and harness the opportunity of (the) digital economy.
“The Digital Cooperation Organization is now enabling more than half a billion people across member states to connect with and prosper in the digital economy, particularly underrepresented groups such as women and young people. All of our member states should be proud of the impact we have achieved in the year since the DCO’s establishment.”In announcing the Republic of Rwanda’s accession to the DCO as the eighth founding member, Secretary-General Ms. Deemah AlYahya said:
Rwanda has prioritised digital economy policies through Rwanda’s Smart Rwanda Master Plan and National Information and Communication Infrastructure strategies. The Government has this month announced the Kigali Innovation City, which is planned to serve as a tech and innovation hub for the African continent.
In November Rwanda also announced a $100 million project to increase access to broadband and selected digital public services, and to strengthen the digital innovation ecosystem. These projects will also serve to support the development of Rwanda’s digital talent base, particularly for youth, in line with the Government’s National Digital Talent Policy.
“Rwanda is happy to join the DCO whose mission aligns with our digital transformation agenda, reaffirming our commitment to enabling digital access and opportunities for the people of Rwanda. Joining the DCO is an opportunity to be part of platform and broader network through which we will build global partnerships, in the public and private sector including startups, that will deliver an inclusive digital economy for Rwanda.”Paula Ingabire, the Rwandan minister of information, communication technology and innovation, welcomed the announcement.Â
The announcement builds on the DCO’s significant progress achieved since its foundational year. The DCO has built its membership to eight member states representing more than half a billion people and confirmed five global initiatives to support policymakers, youth, women, and entrepreneurs.
The DCO offers businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs access to new markets. Many of the organization’s initiatives are designed to raise digital literacy and inclusion among groups often affected by the digital divide.
