Many countries in Africa are transitioning toward national digital ID systems. However, the success and impact of a national digital ID program depend on its uptake and use cases. Currently, the majority of the use cases of digital ID in Africa are limited to elections, financial inclusion and telecom — but there are more opportunities for this technology to improve people's lives on the continent.

Carnegie Mellon University’s Upanzi Network(opens in new window) and MicroSave Consulting (MSC)(opens in new window) have launched a series of regional hackathons for African university students to identify new and innovative use cases of digital ID across the continent. The first hackathon will focus on Eastern Africa and allow students to explore how digital ID systems could foster regional integration and inclusion.

The hackathons will include an educational component for all participants. Before submitting their ideas, students will participate in a virtual course to give them an understanding and appreciation of digital ID, its key features and technical knowledge of digital ID platforms. Once finalists are selected, students receive mentorship from digital ID experts for guidance and support as they develop their prototypes for potential real-world applications. The top team from each hackathon will present their digital ID use cases at a regional conference.

"These regional hackathons are an important way for African university students to help develop the solutions needed for the digital transformation of the continent," said Assane Gueye, co-director of the Upanzi Network. "To achieve sustainable implementation of digital ID within African countries, there needs to be a local knowledge capacity that understands both the technology and the nuances of their respective countries' challenges and culture."

The Upanzi Network, located at CMU-Africa in Rwanda, is a Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation-funded initiative that is working toward a secure and resilient digital transformation of Africa. The group creates, tests, innovates and assists in implementing digital technologies at scale.

"These hackathons will allow students to explore new digital transformation approaches. The use cases emerging from these hackathons will reflect a deep understanding of local contexts and cultural nuances, ensuring they are both relevant and sustainable. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to building sustainable, inclusive and resilient digital economies across Africa," said Mitul Thapliyal, partner at MSC.

MicroSave Consulting is a leading global consulting firm specializing in financial, social, economic and digital inclusion. For the last 25 years, MSC has worked closely with governments, financial institutions and development organizations to drive digital transformation, enhance financial systems and foster sustainable development.