Published Date : 8/1/2025
The Ambassador of Türkiye to Gabon, Can İncesu, recently held discussions with Gabon’s Minister of Digital Economy, Digitization, and Innovation, Mark Alexandre Doumba, to explore ways of enhancing digital cooperation between the two nations. During the exchange, the Turkish envoy emphasized Türkiye's commitment to sharing its expertise in various digital domains.
The Turkish ambassador highlighted that Türkiye will assist Gabon in areas such as digital government, digital signatures, digital payment systems, and the expansion of digital connectivity infrastructure to underserved regions. Türkiye has made significant strides in digital transformation through a series of projects and programs rooted in national strategies, positioning the country well to share its expertise. The country ranks highly in the UN’s digital government development index.
Türkiye’s Twelfth Development Plan (2024-2028) identifies digital government as a core pillar of inclusive growth. The plan emphasizes the development of a robust digital government ecosystem, including integrated platforms to facilitate access to citizen services. Over the years, Türkiye has invested heavily in these areas, which has contributed to its current standing in digital governance.
A post on the Facebook page of the Gabonese Ministry of Digital Economy noted that both officials acknowledged the existing strong cooperation between the two countries and their mutual interest in bolstering collaboration to advance digital transformation goals. Minister Doumba briefed the Turkish diplomat on the ministry’s role in driving Gabon’s digital transformation. This includes the modernization of public service delivery using digital technologies, the development of national digital infrastructure, data governance, digital sovereignty, and digital skills development.
The two officials also agreed to continue discussions aimed at identifying and implementing key projects that can streamline access to digital public services in Gabon. Gabon launched its new national digital ID system in mid-2023, which is seen as a crucial tool for advancing its digital transformation plans. This system is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency and accessibility of public services, contributing to the country’s broader digital agenda.
The collaboration between Türkiye and Gabon in the digital sector is a testament to the growing importance of digital technologies in modern governance and economic development. By sharing its expertise, Türkiye aims to support Gabon in achieving its digital transformation goals, fostering a more connected and efficient public service system.
Q: What areas of digital cooperation will Türkiye support in Gabon?
A: Türkiye will support Gabon in areas such as digital government, digital signatures, digital payment systems, and the expansion of digital connectivity infrastructure to underserved regions.
Q: What is the significance of Türkiye's Twelfth Development Plan (2024-2028) in digital transformation?
A: The Twelfth Development Plan identifies digital government as a core pillar of inclusive growth and emphasizes the development of a robust digital government ecosystem, including integrated platforms to facilitate access to citizen services.
Q: How does Gabon plan to use its new national digital ID system?
A: Gabon's new national digital ID system, launched in mid-2023, is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency and accessibility of public services, contributing to the country’s broader digital transformation goals.
Q: What role does the Gabonese Ministry of Digital Economy play in the country's digital transformation?
A: The ministry is responsible for driving Gabon’s digital transformation, including the modernization of public service delivery using digital technologies, the development of national digital infrastructure, data governance, digital sovereignty, and digital skills development.
Q: Why is digital transformation important for both Türkiye and Gabon?
A: Digital transformation is crucial for modern governance and economic development. It enhances the efficiency and accessibility of public services, fosters innovation, and supports economic growth.