Digitalisation for Development: Digital strategy for Norwegian development policy

The digital strategy for Norwegian development policy emphasises the integration of digital solutions to enhance development cooperation. This strategy aims to utilise Norway’s expertise in digital innovation to support developing countries in overcoming infrastructural challenges and bridging the digital divide. It outlines strategic priorities and new initiatives to ensure effective and inclusive digital transformation in development efforts.

1. Government’s Thematic Priorities

Health

• Digital Health Information Systems: Norway funds health information systems that serve over two billion users globally. These systems enhance the management of health data and improve service delivery.
• Predictive Analytics: Using big data, Norwegian companies like Telenor predict epidemic developments, aiding in timely responses to health crises.
• Mobile Health Solutions: Initiatives include mobile-based health insurance and birth registration systems in partnership with organisations like UNICEF.

Education

• Digital Learning Tools: Projects such as EduApp4Syria provide educational content via mobile apps, improving literacy among Syrian child refugees.
• ICT Skills Training: Focus on vocational training to enhance digital literacy and IT skills, preparing the workforce for a digital economy.

Climate, Environment, and Oceans

• Satellite Monitoring: Use of satellite data to monitor deforestation and map disaster areas, aiding in environmental conservation and disaster response.
• Meteorological Training: The Norwegian Meteorological Institute trains counterparts in developing countries to enhance weather forecasting capabilities.

Business Development, Agriculture, and Renewable Energy

• Support for Start-ups: Norway aids start-ups and entrepreneurs through funding mechanisms that support preliminary studies and pilot projects.
• Mobile Financial Services: Services like M-pesa provide banking solutions to marginalised groups, fostering financial inclusion.

Humanitarian Aid

• Digital Cash Transfers: The Norwegian Refugee Council and partners use digital cash transfers to deliver aid more efficiently.
• Identification and Documentation: Innovative solutions like blockchain-based apps help refugees document their educational achievements.

2. New Initiatives and Strategic Cooperation

Digitalisation for Development Programme

• Capacity Building: Sharing Norwegian expertise in public-sector digitalisation to build skills in partner countries.
• Innovative Partnerships: Encouraging collaboration between private sector, research institutions, and civil society to foster innovation.

Strategic Cooperation

• Multilateral Partnerships: Working with organisations like the World Bank, UN agencies, and international NGOs to promote digital solutions in development.
• Country-Specific Dialogues: Emphasising digital opportunities in political dialogues with partner countries, ensuring alignment with their digital strategies and needs.

Human Rights and Cybersecurity

• Human Rights in Cyberspace: Promoting respect for human rights online, including freedom of expression and privacy.
• Cybersecurity Capacity Building: Helping developing countries enhance their cybersecurity to protect against digital threats.

3. Digital Transformation in Administration

Efficient Work Processes

• Digital Grant Administration: Implementing digital systems like the Grants Portal and Results Portal to streamline grant administration and improve transparency.
• Data Management: Enhancing the capacity to collect and analyse data for better decision-making and performance management.

Follow-up and Continuous Learning

• Ongoing Evaluation: Regularly assess the effectiveness of digital initiatives and make adjustments based on new knowledge and developments.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting transparency and accessibility of digital services and sharing best practices and lessons learned.