Riyadh, May 30, 2022, SPA -- The Prime Minister of Djibouti, alongside the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), today announced the accession of Djibouti as its 10th member state, helping it strengthen and expand initiatives to empower more women, youth and entrepreneurs to realize the potential of the digital economy. Djibouti is the fourth African country to join the DCO, serving alongside Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, Rwanda and Saudi Arabia. The country has made significant inroads in becoming a regional connectivity and data market hub. Vision 2035, the country’s roadmap for achieving social inclusion, connectivity and regional integration, aims to develop a diversified and competitive economy, with digital solutions enabling youth to make the most of the fourth industrial revolution. The Prime Minister of Djibouti, Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, shared his excitement: “I am delighted that we are joining the DCO: a young, dynamic organization focused on the development of the digital economy. Today, and for every tomorrow, the digital economy will represent a significant growth opportunity that we must take advantage of. DCO represents a space for exchanging the experiences of different countries in order to cushion the mistakes that others may have made but also to appropriate the models of countries that have succeeded among DCO members. We are the 4th African country to join the organization and we also intend to be an advocate to engage other countries to join with us. The diversity of institutions promoting the digital economy can only be an advantage for our countries.” Djibouti’s Minister-Delegate for Digital Economy and Innovation, Mariam Hamadou Ali, welcomed the announcement, stating: “The DCO, with its mission of empowering youth, women and entrepreneurs to maximize their potential in the digital economy, is a natural partner for Djibouti as we continue our digital transformation journey. We strive to create opportunity through the launch of Espace Creatif, the University of Djibouti’s digital training center; and the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative, which supports women’s entrepreneurship. “The DCO provides a platform for Djibouti to be an active participant in the new digital economy. We are delighted to join the DCO and look forward to collaborating with our fellow DCO member states as we pursue digital prosperity for all.” Commenting on the newest of its valuable members, DCO Secretary-General Deemah AlYahya said: “Djibouti is a country making significant progress in expanding digital literacy, with digital training programs and initiatives to support female entrepreneurs. Its National Strategy for ICT Development and World bank-funded Digital Foundations Project demonstrate the country’s deep commitment to create an enabling environment for the growth of the digital economy. Welcoming a country that aligns so clearly with the DCO’s vision will reinforce our collective strength and impact in creating a more inclusive digital economy. “With 70 percent of future economic growth set to be digital, the DCO’s fundamental belief is that true prosperity can only be achieved through collaboration, empowering the private sector to innovate and providing a platform for knowledge sharing. We look forward to working with digital innovators in Djibouti as we continue our pursuit of digital prosperity for all.” --SPA 17:12 LOCAL TIME 14:12 GMT 0023 www.spa.gov.sa/w1740042