ONE AFRICA, ONE DIGITAL ECOSYSTEM
FROM FRAGMENTATION TO
INTEROPERABILITY
Today, many African nations face fragmented systems — each ministry managing its own identity databases and verification processes. This limits efficiency and increases cost, when it could be solved with decentralised identity.
DECENTRALISED DIGITAL IDENTITY: THE FOUNDATION FOR TRUST AND INCLUSION
Governments should seize the opportunity to unify identity systems through decentralised, interoperable frameworks that connect ministries, government agencies, and the private sector to ensure seamless access to services for every citizen. Decentralised identity gives citizens ownership of their data while allowing governments to maintain trust.
BENEFITS OF DECENTRALISED IDENTITY
Citizens are in Control of Their Data
Online and Offline Verification for Enhanced Inclusion
Interoperability thanks to International Standards Compliance
Scalable Solution that Can Include Any Digital Credential
Additional Revenue Streams Through Verification
Africa’s Moment to Lead Digitization
The African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy identifies Digital Identity as a key enabler of the continent’s digital future. By embracing decentralised, standards-based frameworks such as W3C Verifiable Credentials, OpenID4VC, and ISO/IEC 23220, African nations can:
- Protect sovereignty and local governance
- Align with global interoperability standards
- Build inclusive systems that reach rural and underserved populations
“Digital identity is not just about technology — it’s about empowering citizens and connecting governments.”
DO’S AND DON’TS OF DIGITAL IDENTITY
As experts we have advised many governments about the implementation of digital identity. Here are the do’s and don’ts for governments that wish to lead innovation in their country.
Download InfographicWATCH THE PRESENTATION:
“Unifying Africa’s Digital Future”
At the Digital Government Africa 2025 event in Zambia, Shashank Kumar
shared insights on how governments can turn digital identity challenges
into opportunities through decentralised systems.
AFRICA, LET’S DO THIS TOGETHER.
It’s time to unite under a shared digital vision — one that empowers every ministry, every citizen, and every nation.
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