ACDT leads research forum at Future of Digital Countries Summit

The Africa Center for Digital Transformation (ACDT) hosted a Research Forum. This event focused on Digital Twin technologies. It aimed to shape smart infrastructure and resilient economies in Africa. The forum took place at the Future of Digital Countries Summit in Cairo.

Dr. Shady Adib led the forum. He is a Research Associate with ACDT and has a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, specializing in Digital Twin systems. His leadership marked an important moment for African digital research on an international stage.

Dr. Adib opened the session by discussing Digital Twin technology's potential. He explained how virtual replicas of physical systems enable predictive analytics and resource optimization. This technology aids decision-making in urban planning, infrastructure development, and climate resilience.

He shared case studies from ongoing ACDT research. These examples showed how Digital Twins can improve planning and management for African governments and cities.

“In Africa, digitally informed planning is existential,” Dr. Adib stated. He emphasized that Digital Twin technologies allow real-time data use to anticipate failures and enhance public services.

ACDT's participation highlights its role as a thought leader in Africa's digital transformation journey. The Research Forum showcased ACDT’s model for knowledge production and policy influence, bridging academic research with practical implementation.

The session stressed the need for African-driven digital research at global forums. Dr. Adib noted that Africa should not rely solely on imported models.

Institutions like ACDT promote homegrown research ecosystems aligned with local contexts while engaging with international partners.

The forum included a panel discussion featuring delegates from North, East, and Southern Africa. They discussed applying Digital Twin systems across transportation, water infrastructure, healthcare, and smart agriculture.

Attendees called for stronger cross-border research cooperation supported by institutions like ACDT to enable shared learning.

Participants praised ACDT’s commitment to building continental digital research capacity through fellowships and policy toolkits.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Adib reiterated that Africa’s digital transformation must be data-informed and human-centered.

“We are shaping our digital future,” he concluded. “Our research calls for action from governments, academia, and industry to collaborate effectively.”

ACDT’s leadership at the summit solidified its role as a hub for digital thought leadership in Africa.

As the continent moves toward digital sovereignty, forums like this remind us that its future is shaped not just in boardrooms but also in labs and collaborative spaces where innovative ideas thrive.