Over Half of Moroccans Digitally Illiterate, Supreme Audit Institution Reports

Thursday 21 December 2023 - 15:44

A recent report from Morocco's Supreme Audit Institution reveals a concerning statistic: a staggering 56% of Moroccans are currently grappling with digital illiteracy. This unsettling revelation not only underscores the immediate need for intervention but also sheds light on the widening digital divide within the Kingdom, hindering initiatives aimed at fostering digital inclusion.

One of the key findings in the report points to the lack of access to digital devices among a significant portion of the population, with a notable 17% not owning a smartphone. This digital deprivation, coupled with insufficient user training and disparities in network access, has emerged as a substantial barrier to Morocco's digital progress.

To address these challenges, the report strongly advocates for enhancing access to digital infrastructure and technology, alongside the implementation of comprehensive digital literacy programs. Recognizing the importance of digital services in the public domain, the report emphasizes the need to aid citizens in navigating e-services while safeguarding their rights and personal data.

The report does not shy away from critiquing the Ministry of Digital Transition, citing shortcomings in the full implementation of Morocco's digital transformation roadmap. Delays in adopting necessary legal frameworks, establishing oversight entities, and regulating emerging domains such as e-archiving, blockchain, AI, and digital platforms were identified as key obstacles.

As a strategic solution, the report proposes the development of an integrated national digital strategy that delineates clear targets and incorporates robust monitoring mechanisms. Highlighting a piece of legislation from 2019, the report urges the finalization of a digital administration bill aimed at facilitating the digitalization of public services.

The evaluation also raises concerns about the underwhelming outcomes of Morocco's Digital Morocco 2020 plan, attributing its shortcomings to insufficient participation from both the private and public sectors. Additionally, weak coordination among digital stakeholders is identified as a significant contributor to fragmented efforts across ministerial departments.

In conclusion, the Supreme Audit Institution's report serves as a clarion call for immediate action to bridge the digital literacy gap in Morocco. The recommendations, ranging from bolstering access to digital resources to streamlining legal frameworks, underscore the necessity for a concerted effort to propel Morocco toward a digitally mature future.