ICSOE 2025: North Africa’s Growing Momentum Toward a Digital Future
Over the past three days, I had the privilege of joining the flagship annual event of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Subregional Office for North Africa — the Intergovernmental Committee of Senior Officials and Experts (ICSOE) and its Expert Group Meeting. This annual gathering is more than a meeting; it is a diagnostic tool for the region, a space where technical insights meet political commitments, and where North Africa collectively reflects on its development trajectory.
This year, the enthusiasm, clarity of purpose, and political engagement across the sessions were especially inspiring. In every conversation, there was a noticeable shift: digital transformation is no longer a side topic or aspirational vision — it is at the center of fiscal reform, governance strengthening, and inclusive growth strategies across the region.
A Region Awakening to Its Digital Potential
What stood out during ICSOE 2025 was the strong convergence of political will and strategic investment across the seven North African member States — Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Sudan, and Tunisia. Each country shared not only its ambitions but also its practical steps toward modernising public finance, leveraging emerging technologies, and enhancing state capacity.
From the presentations, it became clear that digital transformation is now seen as a cornerstone of economic resilience, especially in a region grappling with climate pressures, demographic changes, global economic shifts, and ongoing political instability.
Across the discussions, several key themes emerged:
AI as a Driver of Public Sector Efficiency
Governments are increasingly deploying AI tools to improve service delivery, detect tax fraud, model economic projections, enhance social protection targeting, and support evidence-based policymaking. The potential for AI to modernise bureaucracy and reduce inefficiencies resonated strongly across delegations.
E-Invoicing and Digital Tax Systems
Digital tax administration systems were highlighted as essential to expanding fiscal space, improving revenue mobilisation, and combating the informal economy. Countries shared progress on e-invoicing platforms, taxpayer portals, and automation efforts that promise more transparency and compliance.
Mobile Payments and Digital Financial Inclusion
Mobile money is transforming how citizens interact with the state — from paying fees to receiving social transfers. Several member States shared exciting initiatives that are improving financial inclusion for women, rural populations, and young entrepreneurs.
Digital ID and Data Governance Frameworks
A robust digital ID system is becoming the backbone of many public services. Discussions highlighted its role in secure transactions, targeted subsidies, and citizen access to essential services.
Equally, member States reaffirmed the need for comprehensive data governance frameworks — a prerequisite for responsible innovation, privacy, and trust.
Innovation as a National Priority
What once felt like fragmented pilot projects has evolved into structured national strategies. Governments are investing in digital infrastructure, talent development, and innovation hubs — signs that North Africa is preparing to leapfrog rather than simply catch up.
A Renewed Appreciation for UNECA’s Regional Role
ICSOE 2025 reinforced how crucial UNECA’s work is in supporting member States through evidence-based analysis, technical expertise, and capacity development. Our North Africa office acts not only as a convener of dialogue but as a partner that accompanies States throughout policy formulation and implementation.
Whether through country assessments, advisory missions, regional studies, or training programs, UNECA remains deeply committed to enabling North African countries to:
Strengthen governance institutions
Advance digital public infrastructure
Promote inclusive economic growth
Align national reforms with global development priorities
Seeing the level of engagement from all countries reaffirmed the value of this work — and the trust placed in our office to guide and support collective progress.
Looking Ahead: Towards COM2026
The outcomes of this year’s ICSOE will directly shape COM2026, also taking place in Morocco. The upcoming Committee of Ministers will focus on a theme that perfectly captures the region’s current aspirations: Harnessing data and frontier technologies for Africa’s economic transformation.
This forward-looking theme places digital transformation at the heart of Africa’s development agenda, emphasising the need for coherent policies, regional coordination, and smart investments.
A Meaningful Three Days of Insight, Collaboration, and Momentum
As I reflect on these three days, I am reminded of the immense potential North Africa holds — not only in terms of talent and innovation, but also in political commitment and the desire for positive change. The conversations were rich, the connections meaningful, and the shared vision unmistakable: North Africa is ready to accelerate its digital transformation journey.
The work ahead is substantial, but so is the momentum. I look forward to continuing this journey with our member States as we collectively move toward a more innovative, inclusive, and economically resilient future.