Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia made a compelling case for a digitally empowered Africa during his speech at the Cambridge Africa Business Conference. 

Delivering what many described as one of the most passionate addresses of the day, Dr. Bawumia outlined why digital transformation is the cornerstone of Africa’s development.

He shared how Ghana’s digital journey has significantly reduced inefficiencies in public administration. 

From digital land records to e-pharmacy systems, Dr. Bawumia detailed reforms that have not only improved service delivery but also saved millions in public funds. “When you digitalise, you formalise,” he stressed.

Dr. Bawumia also tackled the issue of financial exclusion, particularly among the youth and informal sector workers. 

He explained how mobile technology has brought banking services to millions of unbanked Ghanaians. 

These innovations, he argued, are key to building economic resilience in the face of global shocks.

But the former Vice President didn’t shy away from challenges. 

He acknowledged infrastructure gaps, digital literacy disparities, and the need for more investment in cybersecurity. However, he was optimistic: “These are not roadblocks—they are simply the next hurdles to overcome.”

Dr. Bawumia’s final message was a confident rallying cry: “Africa doesn’t need to catch up—it needs to leap forward.”