Moses Baiden calls for Africa to build its digital future amid global trade uncertainty

Amid rising global trade tensions, Moses Kwesi Baiden Jnr. has spoken out. He is the CEO and Founder of Margins ID Group. He called for Africa to secure its technological sovereignty urgently.

Baiden spoke at the 2025 CEO Summit launch in Accra. The theme was “Leading Ghana’s Economic Reset.” He warned that Africa cannot stay on the sidelines of global change.

He urged business leaders and policymakers to take bold actions. They must build and own Africa's digital future. "As nationalism rises, the idea of a borderless economy is fading," he said.

Baiden emphasized that Africa must create its own digital destiny. This means ensuring data sovereignty, secure systems, and homegrown innovation. "In the coming world, you either build or are built," he cautioned.

He highlighted Africa's growing vulnerability to external disruptions. Recent issues with cloud tools and digital storage were concerning. Many platforms used by African firms are controlled by foreign entities.

"As global tensions rise, sudden disconnections become a real risk," he warned. He painted a grim picture: losing corporate memory or identity due to distant decisions.

Without action, Africa risks becoming a "digital colony." It could be bound by systems it does not control or understand. Baiden also warned about the Fourth Industrial Revolution's impact.

This shift involves artificial intelligence, automation, and data analytics. While many nations race ahead, Baiden stressed that Africa might be left behind. "The future belongs to those who create it," he declared.

"Let us not wait for an invitation; let us set the table." He urged for systems that are transparent, ethical, and accountable.

Baiden called on Africa’s private sector to lead with courage and vision. They should foster homegrown innovation capable of competing globally.