Lacina Koné, director-general and CEO of Smart Africa, has been honored with the 2025 World Internet Conference (WIC) Distinguished Contribution Award.

As a leading advocate for Africa's digital transformation, Koné has played a central role in promoting the vision of Smart Africa—to build a single, inclusive and sovereign digital market across the continent. He has worked to strengthen digital public infrastructure, harmonize data governance and empower local innovation through policy and smart investment.

Koné said the award represents a shared commitment to collaboration and innovation, reminding the world that "when we connect, collaborate and co-create, we can shape a digital future that leaves no one behind."

He also recognized the WIC as an important platform linking regional champions with global partners to advance cooperation in innovation, regulation and AI ethics.