By:
Nana Appiah Acquaye
Senegal
has strengthened its digital cooperation with Japan following discussions
between the Ministry of Communication, Telecommunications and Digital Economy
and a representative of the Japanese Embassy in Dakar, building on engagements
from the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group Summit in Tokyo.
The
follow-up meeting with Mr. Ogawa focused on advancing bilateral collaboration
in digital development, with particular emphasis on high-level skills training
and the role of digital technology as a catalyst for economic transformation.
Officials
highlighted the importance of strengthening training systems aligned with
international standards as a key lever for addressing youth employment
pressures, noting that approximately 150,000 young people enter Senegal’s
labour market each year.
The
discussions also reviewed ongoing cooperation between Senegal and Japan through
the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), particularly support for the
development of Senegal’s national interoperability platform.
Authorities
indicated that the engagement forms part of Senegal’s broader New Technological
Deal, including the Senegal Digital Factory programme, which aims to translate
digital policy into practical initiatives that support skills development,
innovation, and job creation for young people.
The
two sides reaffirmed their commitment to sustained cooperation in advancing
Senegal’s digital transformation agenda.
