East Africa sees a significant milestone: Djibouti introduces a comprehensive digital legislation
Djibouti has made a significant stride in its digital transformation journey by officially adopting its first comprehensive Digital Code. The legislation, passed during a plenary session of the National Assembly on June 30, 2025, represents a strategic and forward-looking framework that is set to influence the digital governance landscape in East Africa.
Developed over more than two years through a participatory process involving various stakeholders, the Digital Code comprises eight volumes and nearly 800 articles, making it one of the most detailed digital regulatory frameworks in East Africa. The legislation is a key component of Djibouti's Smart Nation strategy and aligns with its long-term strategic vision, Djibouti Vision 2035.
The Digital Code addresses key aspects of digital governance, including data protection, cybersecurity, e-commerce, cryptology, digital consumption, and innovative services. Book I focuses on Personal Data Protection, establishing clear rules for safeguarding personal data. Book II covers Electronic Communication, Book III deals with Cryptology, Book IV pertains to E-Commerce, Book V is dedicated to Consumer Rights, Book VI addresses Cybersecurity and Cybercrime, and Book VII concerns Innovative Digital Services.
The implementation of this comprehensive Digital Code is expected to accelerate Djibouti's digital transformation by creating a structured and secure digital ecosystem. It is anticipated that this legal framework will foster innovation and increase digital trust among citizens and investors, attract technological investments, enhance governance efficiency through improved e-government services and digital identity systems, and serve as a model for neighbouring countries in East Africa aiming to craft or reform their digital regulations.
By setting a regional precedent, Djibouti positions itself as a potential catalyst for broader digital ecosystem development across East Africa and enhances regional integration in digital governance. The Digital Code is expected to strengthen consumer rights and combat cybercrime, positioning Djibouti as a modern, sovereign, and competitive digital nation.
The Ministry of Digital Economy and Innovation (MDENI) announced the passing of the Digital Code, marking a significant step in Djibouti's digital transformation. The comprehensive Digital Code represents a robust legal model for managing digital transformation, not only advancing Djibouti's national digital agenda but also influencing the digital governance landscape in East Africa.
The comprehensive Digital Code, encompassing aspects like cybersecurity and e-commerce, is a key element of Djibouti's Smart Nation strategy, aiming to establish a secure and innovative digital ecosystem. As the Digital Code also focuses on combating cybercrime and strengthening consumer rights, Djibouti positions itself as a modern, forward-thinking nation in digital governance across East Africa.
