Samuel Nartey George, Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, was appointed chair of the African Union ICT committee for a two‑year term.

The appointment was confirmed at the sixth Ordinary Session of the AU Specialised Technical Committee on Communication and ICT held in Libreville, Gabon.

Kenya was elected First Vice‑Chair of the committee’s Bureau, joining Ghana and other member states in the leadership structure.

The committee’s mandate covers coordination of telecommunications infrastructure, data governance, cybersecurity and artificial‑intelligence policy across AU members.

George identified connectivity, data governance, cybersecurity and AI as priority areas that require tighter cooperation among African governments.

The AU is reviewing progress under its Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa 2020‑2030, which provides a framework for expanding connectivity, digital skills and services.

A long‑term objective is the creation of a Single African Digital Market to simplify cross‑border digital services, payments and identity verification for businesses and consumers.

The African Union Commission has highlighted interoperable digital‑identity systems, cross‑border payment capabilities and harmonised data‑governance as foundations for that market.

Kenya’s recent digital‑policy steps, including signing the Digital Cooperation Organization Charter and expanding its national fibre backbone, align with the committee’s agenda on regional connectivity and payment interoperability.