ID4Africa Executive Chairman Calls for Africa’s Digital Identity Self-Reliance and Inclusive Growth

Addis Ababa, May 20, 2025 (FBC) – Dr. Joseph Atick, Executive Chairman and founder of the pan-African ID4Africa movement, called on African nations to accelerate the adoption of digital identity systems as a critical foundation for development, economic empowerment, and human dignity.

Speaking at the 2025 ID4Africa Annual General Meeting hosted in Ethiopia, Dr. Atick emphasized that digital identity is no longer optional but an urgent necessity amid global geopolitical shifts and mounting economic challenges. “Africa must look inward, trust its capabilities, and define its digital future on its own terms,” he said, highlighting the movement’s guiding principle: From Africa, For Africa, In Africa.

He praised Ethiopia’s leadership in digital identity development, spotlighting its FIDA program as a model for the continent, and expressed gratitude to the Ethiopian government for hosting the event, which featured record participation from 48 member states.

Dr. Atick also warned of rising cyber threats targeting digital infrastructure and urged nations to treat cybersecurity as a matter of national defense. He underscored the need for innovative financing approaches, such as public-private partnerships, to sustain digital identity initiatives without increasing national debt burdens.

With just five years remaining to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 16.9, guaranteeing legal identity for all including birth registration, he stressed the risk of falling short without bold, accelerated action. “Birth registration is the cornerstone of trustworthy digital identity, empowering individuals and protecting their rights in the digital age,” Dr. Atick noted.

As background, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed earlier underscored the country’s commitment to digital transformation and economic reforms that position Ethiopia as a regional hub for innovation and development.

Dr. Atick concluded with a rallying call to the continent: “The journey ahead is ours to lead — From Africa, For Africa, In Africa.”

ID4Africa is a pan-African movement committed to supporting African nations in building robust and responsible identity ecosystems that drive socio-economic development, digital transformation, and humanitarian efforts.

The ID4Africa Annual General Meeting, hosted each year by a different African country, convenes policymakers, development organizations, civil society, and private sector leaders to chart a path toward robust, inclusive digital identity systems across Africa. This year marks the first time Ethiopia is hosting the forum.