Localizing Digital Public Goods

We are excited to contribute to the dialogue on digital development through the "Localizing Digital Public Goods" paper, recently published in DAI's CDA Insights series. This paper reflects a growing alignment among global donors and implementers on the importance of local ownership in digital technology investments. It emphasizes the need for digital solutions to be not only effective but also equitable, leveraging the full potential of digital technologies and data under the stewardship of local actors.

The paper delves into how digital public goods, including open-source software, data, AI models, and content, offer local communities robust alternatives to costly, proprietary systems. These resources are part of a broader movement towards "localization" — an agenda that puts local expertise, leadership, and ownership at the forefront of digital development.

In our collaborative efforts with DAI, we've focused on the necessity for international development actors to tailor digital solutions to local conditions, ensuring that these innovations are genuinely beneficial and owned by the communities they serve. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the inherent challenges and opportunities in localizing digital public goods, setting the stage for more sustainable and inclusive digital infrastructure worldwide. As contributors to this critical conversation, we are committed to advancing these goals alongside our partners and the broader development community.