Africa economic forum to focus on digital opportunities

Utilizing digital technology will be the focus of the World Economic Forum on Africa that began in Rwandan capital Kigali on Wednesday, organizers said.

The summit will look at ways the continent can harness digital innovation to speed up development and transform the African economy, according to a statement.

Leaders from business, government and civil society are expected to be among more than 1,200 delegates from 70 states attending the three-day conference with the theme Connecting Africa's Resources Through Digital Transformation.

According to the World Economic Forum, Africa's positive economic outlook is under threat from changes in the global economy and is expected to remain below 5 percent in 2016.

“As many countries in the region improve their investment climate and undertake macroeconomic policy reforms, foreign direct investment flows are expected to continue to grow, although at a slower pace," the forum said in a statement.

Across the world, low commodity prices, currency devaluations and debt sustainability have contributed to slow economic growth in Africa.

The forum will encourage African leaders to pursue new approaches to structural transformation, particularly in the face of rapid technological changes that have the potential to create new industries and reduce inequality.

Education is another major theme of the meeting.