The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has announced an ambitious $8.7 billion AI-driven digital transformation plan, positioning artificial intelligence at the core of its strategy to modernise public services, expand digital infrastructure, and accelerate economic growth through 2030.
Unveiled by senior government officials in Kinshasa, the long-term initiative signals a strategic shift toward emerging technologies as the country seeks to overcome structural challenges and align itself with Africa’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
AI at the Core of National Digital Strategy
Central to the plan is the integration of artificial intelligence across key sectors, including public administration, healthcare, education, telecommunications, and security. Government officials say AI tools will be deployed to improve decision-making, automate public service delivery, enhance data management, and support predictive planning in critical areas such as urban development and public health.
The strategy also includes developing national data frameworks and digital platforms to enable responsible AI deployment while strengthening data governance and cybersecurity.
Expanding Smart Connectivity Nationwide
A significant portion of the $8.7 billion investment will be directed toward expanding AI-ready digital infrastructure, including broadband networks, fibre-optic connectivity, data centres, and cloud computing capacity. These investments aim to ensure AI systems operate effectively at scale, particularly in underserved and rural regions.
By strengthening nationwide connectivity, the government aims to reduce the digital divide and lay the foundation for smart services, including AI-enabled telemedicine, intelligent education platforms, and data-driven agricultural solutions.
Transforming Public Services with AI
The plan places strong emphasis on AI-enabled e-government, with initiatives to digitise administrative processes, deploy digital identity systems, and introduce automated service platforms. Authorities believe AI-powered systems can significantly improve efficiency, reduce bureaucratic delays, and enhance transparency in public institutions.
Officials also highlight AI’s potential to strengthen revenue collection, monitor public spending, and support evidence-based policymaking.
Building Local AI Talent and Innovation Ecosystems
Recognising that technology alone is insufficient, the strategy includes major investments in AI skills development and digital education. Programmes will focus on training civil servants, students, and young professionals in data science, machine learning, software engineering, and digital entrepreneurship.
The government plans to support innovation hubs, research centres, and technology startups to foster a local AI ecosystem capable of developing solutions tailored to the country’s social and economic realities.
Funding, Partnerships, and Governance
The $8.7 billion plan will be financed through a combination of public funding, private sector investment, and strategic partnerships with international technology firms and development institutions. Authorities say governance frameworks will be established to ensure ethical use of AI, data protection, and accountability throughout implementation.
Clear performance benchmarks and phased rollouts are expected to guide execution over the next six years.
Positioning the DRC in Africa’s AI Future
With this AI-driven approach, the DRC is seeking to move beyond traditional digitalisation and position itself as an emerging player in Africa’s technology transformation. If effectively implemented, the strategy could unlock new economic opportunities, improve public service delivery, and strengthen the country’s competitiveness in regional and global digital markets.
As the plan moves from announcement to execution, its success will largely depend on sustained investment, institutional capacity, and the government’s ability to translate AI ambition into tangible benefits for citizens by 2030.
DDRC Launches $8.7 Billion AI-Driven Digital Plan Through 2030. AI Base Nigeria
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