The forum, which attracted prudent and innovative minds and discussed productive ideas and strategies for enhanced development, was held on Wednesday 10 July 2024 at the Sir Dawda Kairaba International Conference Centre.
GICTA’s broad-based mandate includes the implementation of The Gambia’s E-Government Plan, facilitation of a digital economy, provision of high-quality IT services to the Government, coordinating, promoting and monitoring state-related IT projects while ensuring standardisation of IT processes nationwide.
Speaking at the event, Hon Ousman O. Bah, Minister for Communications & Digital Economy, (MOCDE), said technology drives both economic growth and social development. “Our government envisions a digital future which enhances quality-of-life for all Gambians,” he said.
“This vision involves efficient governance, accessible public services and an economy driven by innovation and technology - the core elements that GICTA must facilitate to bring this transformation about. GICTA holds this key responsibility by overseeing implementation of our E-Government Plan while leading transition into digital economy.”
GICTA's objectives are clear and vital, Minister Bah pointed out, saying the objectives include providing high-quality IT services to the government, coordinating IT-related projects, and standardising IT planning, acquisition and implementation across government institutions.
“The strategic role of GICTA in achieving this vision cannot be overstated,” he affirmed, saying: “GICTA will coordinate efforts across various sectors, ensuring that Government ICT projects align with our broader goals of digital service provision, connectivity, security, and innovation.”
GICTA with such a forum is about creating opportunities especially for the youth, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring that every Gambian and resident can benefit from the advancements in ICT, the minister stated. “GICTA’s role in this endeavour cannot be over-elaborated. It is the agency that will drive the digital transformation, ensuring that our ICT projects are not only innovative but also sustainable and impactful.”
The Vice Chairperson of GICTA Board of Directors, Naceesay Marenah-Kurang, says GICTA is born out of a need to harness the power of information and communications technologies, to transform the government’s operations and services.
“This transformation is not just about adoption of new technologies; it’s about creating a seamless, efficient and inclusive digital environment that benefits every citizen.”
She further outlined the GICTA Board’s mandate, saying it comprises eight main areas: “1) Encouraging the creation of homegrown applications that address our unique needs and challenges;
2) ensuring our ICT initiatives follow consistent and high quality standards;
3) equipping our citizens with the necessary skills to navigate and thrive in the digital world;
4) safeguarding our digital infrastructure and data against threats ensuring a secure online environment;
5) overseeing ICT projects and initiatives to ensure they align with our national goals and deliver expected outcomes;
6) integrating ITC solutions into government operations to improve service delivery and operational efficiency;
7) building and maintaining the rigorous infrastructure needed to support our digital initiatives, and
8) ensuring the different system and services work together to provide a unified experience.”
Mrs Marenah-Kurang dilated on each of these areas as critical for creating a resilient, efficient and innovative ICT landscape in The Gambia.
“By focusing on these goals we aim to foster an environment where technology enhances government, empowers citizens and drives sustainable development,”she affirmed.
Secretary General and head of Civil Service, Salimatou Touray, underscored the importance government attaches to the endeavour. “Government recognises the importance of the trust and in its drive to transform the public service and the digital landscape is lending its full support to the Ministry of Digital Economy and GICTA to ensure that we move this transformation process,” she assured.
