Tracking Africa’s Mega Infrastructure Projects: AUDA-NEPAD to Launch Digital Dashboard for Transparency

By Mohammed Dahiru-Lawal

Transparency and accountability are set to take center stage in Africa’s infrastructure development efforts, thanks to a new initiative by AUDA-NEPAD.

At a recent workshop in Addis Ababa, officials announced the creation of a real-time digital dashboard designed to monitor the progress of PIDA PAP II projects.

This digital dashboard aims to address longstanding issues such as delays, cost overruns, and inefficiencies in project implementation. By providing open-access reporting, the platform will enable governments, investors, and the public to monitor project execution in real time.

Features of the dashboard include tracking project progress, identifying financing gaps, and pinpointing bottlenecks, thereby facilitating evidence-based decision-making.

Yones Touitha, a senior AUDA-NEPAD official, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that it will ensure greater accountability and transparency in the implementation of infrastructure projects.

“This initiative will enable evidence-based decision-making and allow stakeholders to track projects more effectively,” Touitha stated.

This move aligns with AUDA-NEPAD’s commitment to leveraging digital solutions to enhance project management and stakeholder engagement.

While the digital dashboard represents a positive step toward improved transparency, its success will depend on the full adoption and utilization by African governments and other stakeholders. Ensuring the system’s functionality and regular updates will be crucial in maintaining its effectiveness.

Experts argue that while technology can aid in addressing infrastructure challenges, strong political commitment and efficient project management are equally essential.