Digital connectivity and firm participation in foreign markets: An exporter-based bilateral analysis
July 09, 2025
The Digital Technology and Public Policy Chair aims to analyse digital-related policy issues and provide actionable recommendations to foster the digital transformation of African economies.
Its work focuses on three key themes:
The chair is co-led by Jenny C. Aker and Fatoumata Ba, with support from Joël Cariolle.
↪ Financial inclusion in Niger
The chair supports a pilot project led by Jenny Aker (Cornell University), designed to enhance financial inclusion among farming households in Niger through mobile payments. The project is ongoing, with results expected by mid-2025.
↪ Digital identity in sub-Saharan Africa
A study is underway to analyse the challenges and opportunities surrounding digital identification systems in the region, and their role in improving access to essential services.
The chair’s work is supported by a strong research foundation, combining academic publications and outreach materials. A key example:
World Bank Policy Research Working Paper
The paper “The Impact of Submarine Cables on Internet Access Price, and the Role of Competition and Regulation” (2024), co-authored by J. Cariolle, G.V. Houngbonon, T.A.H. Silue and D. Strusani, examines:
International recognition
The chair’s research has been presented at major international conferences and seminars, including:
All of this research highlights the growing role of digital technology in shaping public policy, and the need for a coordinated approach involving researchers, international institutions, and local stakeholders to maximise its impact on development.
