On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week, an exclusive event titled “Closing Digital Divides – The Road to an Inclusive & Rights-Respecting Digital Future” was held at Microsoft’s offices in New York. Hosted by the Government of Denmark, Microsoft, Humane Intelligence, and Witness, this high-level side event brought together thought leaders and practitioners to discuss strategies for bridging global digital divides.
The speakers emphasized the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to ensure an inclusive digital future. Denmark’s State Secretary for Development Policy Lotte Machon highlighted her country’s commitment to innovation by announcing plans to open an innovation center in Nairobi. She stressed the necessity of collaboration among various sectors to foster development and innovation.
Teresa Tyson from Microsoft underscored the company’s dedication to ethical AI deployment. She advocated for localized solutions and announced Microsoft’s goal to include 250 million people in the digital economy, with a focus on 100 million in Africa. Tyson called for a scientific advisory body on AI to ensure technology advances human growth while respecting rights.
Erica Gerretsen of the European Commission addressed challenges such as unlawful surveillance and cyberattacks, noting that digital divides exacerbate inequalities. Her insights highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to tackle these issues.
Dr. Rumman Chowdhury from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security emphasized improving accessibility and delivered a compelling discourse on the role of AI in inclusivity.
Ambassador Philip Thigo, MBS, showcased efforts to make Africa’s tech competitive and the concrete steps Kenya has taken to bridge the digital divides and create an enabling environment for investors and a prosperous Africa.
The event explored how digital technologies can unlock potential and help countries leapfrog development goals by strengthening local innovation ecosystems. It also examined how the Global Digital Compact could foster new partnerships for delivering technology responsibly and ethically.
This gathering at UNGA79 underscored a shared vision for a digital future that respects rights and promotes inclusivity. By leveraging diverse expertise, stakeholders aim to harness technology’s power for global good, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age.
KICTANet was represented by Mwendwa Kivuva.
