Information and communication technologies present significant opportunities for Commonwealth countries to address development challenges and accelerate progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Recognising this potential, the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) Council in February 2023 approved a plan to support member states in adopting ICTs to drive digital transformation and foster inclusive social and economic development.

In line with its renewed strategic direction, the CTO is prioritising the advancement of 21st century government and universal broadband connectivity as key enablers of widespread ICT adoption. A 21st century government is citizen-centric, seamless, transparent and efficient, leveraging digital tools to enhance public services and strengthen competitiveness. To support members in shaping and accelerating their national digital transformation agendas, the CTO has conceptualised the Commonwealth Digital Roadshow as a platform for awareness-building, knowledge-sharing and practical guidance.

The roadshow will visit each of the CTO’s 33 member countries and will be convened in at least three countries in different regions of the Commonwealth each year. The inaugural stop of the Roadshow in the Pacific region will be in Vanuatu, in 2026, and it will further engage CTO member countries in the Pacific including Fiji, Samoa, Tonga and Tuvalu.