Article Type: Impact story

Today, countries across Africa are digitising their services, seeking to stimulate much-needed economic and social growth. However, while digital transformation has many benefits, in some cases, it has caused marginalised and socially excluded groups to face an increased risk of being left further behind. In this piece, we highlight the experiences of Khalid and Sayid, two member of stateless communities. Their stories are part of a series of articles highlighting people’s lived experiences of digital transformation, which are intended to provide insights into how data and digital technology are impacting people and communities across Africa.

In this piece, we highlight the story of Yusuf, a professional driver living in Kampala Uganda. By learning about his experience getting a driving permit, we see what the new system – powered by data exchange – means for him. Yusuf’s story is part of a wider series of articles highlighting people’s lived experiences of digital transformation, which we hope, will help to more meaningfully understand how data and digital technology are impacting people and communities across Africa.

Every day, scores of women navigate Accra’s bustling marketplaces in the hopes of making enough money to provide for their families. They are the foundation of Ghana’s unofficial (informal) economy. In this piece, we sat down with several of these women to learn how digital transformation is affecting their lives and livelihoods, both positively and negatively.