By ; Luganda David Nsiyonna
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has kicked off the inaugural Horn of Africa Digital Market Integration (HDMI) Project Steering Committee Meeting in Arta, Djibouti.
The two-day meeting, which began on July 29, 2025, brought together representatives from IGAD Member States, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and various stakeholders to align strategies, review progress, and pave the way for a single digital market across the region.
The HDMI project, funded by the AfDB, is a cornerstone of IGAD’s broader vision for regional integration and economic growth. Phase I of the project targets Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, and South Sudan, with a focus on digital trade, e-commerce, data economy, and digital trust. The initiative aims to reduce administrative costs, improve service delivery, and support inclusive economic growth by building a unified digital market.
Mr. Ismail Garo, Head of Trade, Industry, and Tourism at IGAD, spoke on behalf of IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, highlighting the project’s strategic importance.
“Through HDMI and similar initiatives, IGAD reaffirms its unwavering commitment to regional integration and digital transformation,” he stated. He emphasized that the project’s potential lies in its ability to unlock market opportunities and stimulate sustainable development throughout the IGAD region.
During the meeting, participants deliberated on the project’s 2025 Annual Work Plan, procurement plan, and budget. They also reviewed the Steering Committee’s terms of reference and shared national experiences on digital transformation. The committee endorsed the project’s implementation roadmap and adopted key recommendations to enhance coordination and stakeholder engagement.
The HDMI Project Steering Committee, which includes representatives from participating and non-participating member states as well as the IGAD Business Forum, will provide vital oversight and policy guidance. By focusing on digital infrastructure, regulatory harmonization, cybersecurity, and digital entrepreneurship, the HDMI project is set to play a crucial role in creating a secure, integrated, and prosperous digital ecosystem in the Horn of Africa.
