Riyadh, December 2, 2024 – The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), a global intergovernmental organization committed to fostering digital prosperity, emphasized the significance of international collaboration to enable digital growth during a fireside chat at the MENA ICT 2024 Forum held in Jordan. This forum brought together industry leaders, innovators, investors, and government officials to explore the future of the digital economy in the MENA region.
DCO Secretary General, Deemah AlYahya, delivered a compelling message about the importance of multilateral cooperation in achieving a digitally equitable future. She stressed that the digital transformation of economies across the globe requires concerted efforts from both public and private sectors to foster inclusivity and ensure prosperity for all. The fireside chat, moderated by former ambassador Karim Kawar, President of Kawar Group, focused on the opportunities and challenges facing the MENA region, particularly in terms of digital infrastructure, the impact of emerging technologies, and the essential role a robust digital economy plays in driving innovation and growth.
In addition to the fireside chat, the event featured an investor roundtable, matchmaking sessions, startup pitches, and numerous networking meetings, creating an ecosystem that facilitated meaningful dialogue and collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors, and policy-makers. One of the key highlights of the forum was the Dealzone initiative, hosted by DCO, which showcased 15 innovative startups representing diverse sectors such as healthcare, e-commerce, gaming, business management, fintech, AI, robotics, real estate, and edtech. These startups not only presented their groundbreaking solutions to potential investors but also engaged in critical discussions that could shape the future of their industries.
Notable figures, including Prince Omar bin Faisal, President of the Jordanian Esports Federation, and Eng. Sami Smeirat, Jordan's Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship and DCO Chairperson, visited the DCO pavilion to meet the entrepreneurs. Their engagement highlighted the importance of government support in nurturing a thriving digital startup ecosystem. Several partnerships were formed during the event, with at least three startups receiving investment proposals, signaling the event's success in bridging the gap between innovative entrepreneurs and potential backers.
In recognition of its impactful role in the startup ecosystem, DCO was honored with the prestigious Partners Award at the MENA ICT 2024 Forum. This award underscored the organization’s collaborative efforts to support the growth of startups across the region. Additionally, the DCO-supported Nigerian startup Hadiya, represented by founder Oyindamola Kazee, received the Special Recognition Award for its innovative contributions to the digital space.
Furthermore, Sheilah Birgen, the Innovation-Driven Market Director at DCO, was celebrated for her role as a judge for the MENA ICT Awards. She also participated in a panel discussion titled Bridging the Gap: Public-Private Synergies for Startup Success, which explored the critical collaboration needed between government agencies and private sector stakeholders to foster the growth of startups in the digital economy.
The MENA ICT 2024 Forum proved to be a significant platform for fostering digital innovation, collaboration, and investment. The DCO’s participation not only highlighted its leadership in advancing digital prosperity but also reinforced its commitment to supporting the growth of digital economies and startups across the MENA region and beyond.
