The Potential of Digital Public Infrastructure: Lessons from India for Africa

The India Stack, a public digital infrastructure that enables payments and biometric identification, has been touted as a model for boosting economic growth and meeting sustainable development goals. Over the past decade, it has been credited with combating corruption and empowering previously excluded citizens. The open-source nature of the India Stack has allowed the government and private companies to build applications, verify identities, and facilitate payments and data transfers. With nearly every adult in India possessing a 12-digit biometric identity known as Aadhaar, access to services has become more widespread.

The United Nations has recognized the role of the India Stack in addressing the COVID-19 crisis and promoting development. It has the potential to accelerate global economic growth, transition to sustainable and green economies, and enhance accessibility and public trust in institutions. The World Bank has also directed loans towards improving digital infrastructure.

Now, this digital public infrastructure is being considered for adoption in Africa. Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, sees the adoption of digital public infrastructure as key to unlocking growth and reducing poverty in African countries. It could bring millions of people into the financial system, enhance state competence, and reduce corruption enabling direct payments to individuals.

However, some critics raise concerns about potential misuse of personal data authoritarian governments. While the India Stack has connected a large number of people online, it has also experienced data breaches and raised the issue of privacy. Nanjala Nyabola, a Kenyan author, warns that digital identity systems can be used to suppress or discriminate against certain citizens.

Despite these concerns, proponents of digital public infrastructure, such as Ghana’s vice-president Mahamudu Bawumia, emphasize the importance of digitalizing economies for competitiveness and effective governance. Governments play a crucial role in providing services and need to know who their citizens are.

Africa has been an early adopter of digital technologies in many ways, but it lags behind in digital ID systems. According to the World Bank, a significant portion of the population in sub-Saharan Africa lacks any form of official identification. However, efforts are underway in several African countries to develop nationwide digital payment systems and improve digital identification.

In conclusion, the India Stack has demonstrated the potential of digital public infrastructure to transform societies and improve governance. Africa can learn from India’s experience and leverage digital technologies to enhance economic growth and meet development goals. However, careful consideration must be given to privacy and data protection to ensure that these systems benefit all citizens without compromising their rights.

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