Africa’s Emergent Tech Sector: Its Characteristics and Impact on Development and Labour Markets

The impact of digitalisation on labour markets is felt worldwide. In the Global South, internet access expands, digital platforms proliferate, but access to and use of digital technologies remains far from universal. We review evidence on the labour markets effects of some of these digital trends.

The arrival of AI-powered chatbots has made many people think once again about the skills needed for the "digital future of work." Poorer countries in particular exhibit large “digital skills gaps.” This GIGA Focus looks at digital skills in the Global South.

Digital technology is becoming increasingly popular in sub-Saharan Africa for its advertised ability to stem electoral fraud. However, evidence from recent elections – including Nigeria’s in 2023 – calls for a re-evaluation of the exact credibility guarantees of such technology in this context.

Africa’s tech sector is booming, with start-ups attracting funding in key underdeveloped industries like finance, retail, and transport. This study explores how digital technologies are tailored to local needs, their impact on development, and the potential of platforms like mobile money and e-commerce. More evidence is needed to shape effective policies.

Sixty years after the founding of the GIGA, historical legacies still drive the “one-way street” of research collaboration between Germany and Africa. Creative digital approaches, such as “big-team science,” are needed to accelerate joint knowledge creation with the continent.

The impact of digitalisation on labour markets is felt worldwide. In the Global South, internet access expands, digital platforms proliferate, but access to and use of digital technologies remains far from universal. We review evidence on the labour markets effects of some of these digital trends.

The arrival of AI-powered chatbots has made many people think once again about the skills needed for the "digital future of work." Poorer countries in particular exhibit large “digital skills gaps.” This GIGA Focus looks at digital skills in the Global South.

Digital technology is becoming increasingly popular in sub-Saharan Africa for its advertised ability to stem electoral fraud. However, evidence from recent elections – including Nigeria’s in 2023 – calls for a re-evaluation of the exact credibility guarantees of such technology in this context.