Zoom Link:
https://afigf2020-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlf-mvrDgoE9fXFLvdGkf5LSJZAD8xGxFyMore and more governments around the globe plan to adopt a digital-first approach to the procedures, processes and services they provide to their citizens. Although such initiatives might improve the availability of state services and streamline state bureaucracy "pipelines",factors like unsupportive strategies, the poor implementation of infrastructure, and ineffective development practices, often turn well-intentioned initiatives into costly tools that discriminate and alienate significant parts of the populace, as well as those who are most in need of state services. Inadequate platform design and lack of affordable Internet access are also major barriers for exercising citizenship, especially in African countries. If these challenges are not addressed, the digitalization of government services may reinforce and deepen existing inequalities as well as create new inequalities in citizen participation.
Using case studies from Botswana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa and other countries, the panelists in this session will discuss the most common bottlenecks and blockages for delivering a digital state pipeline and will explore strategies for mitigating these issues, ranging from development best practices, infrastructure improvements and public policies.
The session findings will serve as input for a draft public policy and strategic recommendation document.
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