Over 250 stakeholders from government, civil society, donors, academics, students, and private industry experts have convened in Nairobi for the DataFest Africa 2024 conference, organized by Aga Khan University and Pollicy. This significant event is themed “Opportunities for all: Harnessing Data & Technology for Africa’s Transformation,” and is focused on celebrating the use of data in East Africa. The conference aims to address and overcome challenges that hinder the development of the data ecosystem in Africa.
Deputy Data Commissioner Oscar Otieno, speaking on behalf of the Office of the Data Commissioner during the opening ceremony, commended Aga Khan University and Pollicy for creating this important platform. He emphasized the vital role of data in accelerating the ICT ecosystem, highlighting the necessity of not only enacting legislation but also ensuring effective implementation and enforcement to achieve successful data protection efforts.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in such forums. According to Otieno, it is essential for stakeholders to work together to raise awareness, provide guidance, and enforce compliance with data laws. This collaborative effort includes investing in capacity building, training, and technology to support data protection initiatives, ensuring that all sectors are well-equipped to handle data responsibly.
The World Health Organization estimates that by 2030, data-driven healthcare interventions could save up to one million lives annually. Aga Khan University Chief Innovation Officer Farhana Alarakhiya shared that the university is committed to proactive preventative healthcare through data-driven methods. By using an integrated electronic health record system, the university aims to innovate from a cultural context to enable better health outcomes for the population.
Since its inception in 2019, DataFest Africa has been a platform to celebrate data science and its evolving impact on the African continent. Phillip Ayazika, Pollicy Director of Programs, highlighted that despite significant global advances in data usage, many African countries still lag in harnessing data for social good. He emphasized the importance of using data to engineer social change, with the fifth edition of DataFest being instrumental in this endeavor.
As the conference progresses, it continues to serve as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation in data science across Africa. The commitment of stakeholders to leverage data for transformative change promises a brighter, data-driven future for the continent.
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