*Fatshimetrie* – Digital News Tribune
The Democratic Republic of Congo recently hosted the 9th Ordinary Session of the Conference of the Assembly of Telecommunications Regulators of Central Africa (ARTAC), held at the Hôtel du Fleuve in Kinshasa from November 14 to 15, 2024. This meeting, under the theme “Contribution of telecommunications regulators to the data security strategy in Central Africa”, highlighted the imperative of proactive and innovative regulation to anticipate the challenges related to data security in a context of increasing digitalization.
The leaders present stressed the crucial importance of establishing agile regulation that accompanies the ongoing technological revolution. Indeed, innovation and regional integration were identified as essential levers to meet the common challenges of the sub-region. In a constantly evolving digital world, it is imperative to strengthen regulatory mechanisms to protect individuals’ data while promoting the emergence of digital innovation.
The telecommunications sector in Central Africa is at a crossroads in its evolution, facing major challenges such as the management of sensitive data, the fight against cyberattacks and the modernization of infrastructures. The issue of data security is emerging as a central issue, not only for businesses and governments, but also for citizens who depend on these technologies to access essential services on a daily basis.
In this context, regulators insist on the need to harmonize regional regulations to ensure efficient data management, particularly in the era of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies such as satellite communications. ARTAC also highlights the importance of collaboration between public and private actors to create an environment conducive to innovation while ensuring the security of digital infrastructures.
Regional integration is a key pillar of the discussions, aimed at strengthening cooperation between regulatory authorities to harmonize regulatory frameworks and promote investments in telecommunications networks. The creation of collaborative regulation, involving not only regulators but also private sector players, is expected to foster innovation while optimally protecting users.
After two days of rich and constructive discussions, Central African regulators plan to formulate concrete resolutions in favor of effective and responsible regulation. The ultimate goal is to make the region a model of digital integration, where data security and technological innovation coexist harmoniously. This ambition can only be achieved through strong partnerships between governments, regulators and private stakeholders, thus ensuring the region’s digital resilience in the face of future challenges.
Ultimately, the 9th ARTAC Session in Kinshasa marks a crucial step in the modernization and securing of the telecommunications sector in Central Africa. It calls for concerted and innovative action to address current challenges and prepare the region’s digital future in a secure environment conducive to innovation and sustainable growth.
Flory Musiswa