Research ICT Africa (RIA) has joined an international Community of Practice (CoP) to drive forward global dialogue and policy research on Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs). Digital Public Infrastructure for Development (DPI4D) is an initiative launched by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, bringing together 25 leading think tanks and academic institutions across five continents.
The DPI4D CoP was officially inaugurated on 19 September 2024, and aims to foster collaborative research and exchange of insights on DPIs as a critical foundation for inclusive, digital-driven development. As a participant, RIA joins an international network of researchers, scholars and policymakers to collectively explore the potential of DPIs to advance equitable access, foster innovation and empower communities across the Global South.
RIA’s involvement in DPI4D aligns with our strategic interest in digital equity, open access and sustainable digital development in Africa. Our participation also positions RIA to actively contribute to this evolving policy landscape, drawing on our vast evidence base on digital access and connectivity, as well as our work on data governance, all of which underpins DPIs.
By joining DPI4D, RIA is excited to contribute to shaping inclusive, equitable DPI frameworks that address the unique challenges and opportunities facing African countries.
