# Digital transformation and empowerment in West and Central-A

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/digital-transformation-and-empowerment-in-west-and-central-a
> Updated: 2026-10-29T01:58:23.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 3.

Digitalization efforts across several African nations are focusing on cybersecurity, infrastructure, and youth employment. In Burkina Faso, the National Agency for Information Systems Security (ANSSI) has officially launched the National Network of Information Systems Security Officers (RSSI) and cyber focal points. Director General Oumarou Sanou stated the network aims to create a permanent framework for consultation, coordination, and information sharing to combat threats like phishing, ransomware, and data leaks.

In Senegal, initiatives include the digitalization of judicial procedures, such as online criminal record requests. Meta Public Policy Manager Serge Mbengue noted that successful dematerialization requires public official support, citing a strategy to redeploy staff from automated tasks to more complex human-centric roles. Additionally, the ‘Rose & Bleu Digital 2026’ initiative has been introduced to leverage artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and electronic patient records to enhance cancer prevention and awareness.

In Niger, the Ministry of Communication and New Information Technologies and Airtel Niger launched a ‘Tech Fellowship’ program. This partnership provides ten scholarships to young Nigerien female high school graduates to pursue a three-year curriculum at ESCEP, aiming to reduce the gender gap in technology and support national digital sovereignty. Meanwhile, Cameroon continues to expand its Youth Connekt program to foster entrepreneurship and skills development.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-29: Digital initiatives launched in Niger and Senegal

Niger and Senegal are implementing new digital initiatives: Niger is launching tech scholarships for young women through Airtel, while Senegal is using digital tools to improve cancer prevention and healthcare.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/digital-initiatives-launched-in-niger-and-senegal

### 2026-10-22: Digital and youth empowerment initiatives face infrastructure and funding challenges in Africa

Senegal faces infrastructure hurdles in its digital transformation goals, while Cameroon promotes its Youth Connekt program to boost regional entrepreneurship and youth employment.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/digital-and-youth-empowerment-initiatives-face-infrastructure-and-funding-challenges-in-africa

### 2026-10-22: Digital transformation initiatives launched in Burkina Faso and Senegal

Burkina Faso has launched a national cybersecurity network for security officers, while Senegal focuses on integrating public officials into its digital administrative transformation.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/digital-transformation-initiatives-launched-in-burkina-faso-and-senegal

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Cite as: Digital transformation and empowerment in West and Central-A. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/digital-transformation-and-empowerment-in-west-and-central-a