SMEs are the backbone of the African continent, accounting for 95% of all registered businesses and about 50% of the total GDP. However, they still grapple with issues like access to financing and capacity building and education about digital services. These play an important role in digitising SMEs and equipping them for the digital ecosystem. Key Discussion Points: 1. What are the key barriers that SMEs in Africa face to fully participate in the digital economy? 2. What are the most critical digital skills that African SMEs need to compete in the digital economy? 3. How can governments, private sector players, and educational institutions work together to upskill SME owners and employees?