Digital Identity Imperative for Digital Transformation, Says ID4 Africa Chairman

Addis Ababa, May 21, 2025 (ENA) -- Executive Chairman of ID4 Africa, Joseph Atick, underscored the pivotal role of digital identity in propelling Africa's digital transformation.

He made these remarks during the opening of the ID4 Africa Annual General Meeting in Addis Ababa, a key forum dedicated to advancing digital identity across the continent.

"Digital transformation is no longer a choice; it's an urgent necessity," Atick asserted. "The world is moving in that direction faster than ever before, and the cost of inaction is rising exponentially. It's equally clear that meaningful digital transformation cannot happen without digital identity."

He emphasized that for nations to fully realize the promise of digitalization; they must accelerate their transformation plans and embrace a "digital-first" mindset  highlighting the growing geopolitical tensions fueled by "unilateral, self-serving agendas," particularly from the global north. 

In light of these challenges, Atick stressed that Africa must draw strength from within, mobilizing its collective resources and defining its future on its own terms. This includes engaging with international partners not as passive recipients but as stakeholders whose priorities and sovereignty are respected.

Atick declared the conference a "new chapter" in the journey towards achieving digital identity for all Africans, describing the gathering as a convergence of stakeholders committed to the ID4 Africa movement, which he characterized as a "movement for development."

 

"Today, we begin a new chapter in our journey in the political capital of Africa," Atick stated, marking "the beginning of the second decade of the search for identity for all."

He added, "We gather at the conference not only as participants but as members of a movement. The ID4 movement, the ID4 Africa movement, is a movement for development."

African leaders, Atick noted, are increasingly prioritizing digital transformation in the face of evolving global contexts, with ensuring digital identity being paramount to realizing this transition.

"The ID4 conference here in Ethiopia is a testament to our shared commitment to shaping Africa’s digital future and ensuring that every individual has a recognized identity and that no one is left behind," Atick emphasized. "Digital transformation is no longer an option."

He acknowledged the substantial work already underway across Africa in digital identity, recognizing its vital role in the continent's overall development and improving citizens' lives.

"The need is critical," Atick reiterated. "The world is moving in that direction faster than ever, and the cost is increasing exponentially. It is clear that meaningful digital transformation cannot happen without digital identity”.

According to him, to realize and unlock the full potential of digitalization, countries must accelerate their transformation plans by moving to a digital-first mindset and prioritizing solutions designed for the digital age from the start.

The ID4 Africa conference in Ethiopia serves as a platform for Africans to demonstrate their collective commitment to a digitally empowered future for the continent, he said