Doha, Qatar; 9 March, 2017:  At Qatar's biggest digital event, the QITCOM Exhibition and Conference, the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC) and Accenture (NYSE: ACN), a leading global professional services company, signed an MOU to develop an Innovation Management Capability to source and apply digital technologies and social innovations. The MOU is part of the ambitious Smart Qatar program ‘TASMU’ that is designed to improve citizen outcomes and help drive economic diversification by harnessing technology and innovation. 

The MOU agreement was signed by Ms. Reem Al Mansoori. Assistant Undersecretary, Digital Society Development Sector, Ministry of Transport & Communications and Mr. Omar Boulos, regional managing director of Accenture in the Middle East and North Africa.

“Qatar’s leadership has long recognized the importance of investing in technology and focusing on innovation,” said Ms. Reem Al Mansoori. “Digital technologies are integral and valuable to all aspects of society. Bringing efficiency to sectors like transportation, healthcare, environment, among others, can transform our socio-economic status, positively affecting our lives.”

Under the agreement, Accenture will leverage its expertise in delivering digital innovation to assist the MoTC in developing its innovation management capabilities. Omar Boulos said: “We look forward to working with the Ministry of Transport and Communications to deliver on this fundamental, transformational initiative that will leave lasting positive impact on Qatar’s society. We will leverage our experience in helping government agencies across the globe use digital technologies to transform the way they operate and serve their citizens, to help Qatar realize a leading position in the smart economy.”

The Smart Qatar program ‘TASMU’, announced by H.E. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al-Thani during QITCOM 2017, is designed to improve citizen outcomes and help drive the diversification of the national economy, and aligns with the ambitious Qatar National Vision 2030 which aims to transform Qatar into an advanced society capable of achieving sustainable development. The Smart Qatar program aims to: increase access to quality healthcare, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, promote an active nation in sports with increased female participation, facilitate mobility through safe and environmentally friendly transport network, drive sustainable consumption of natural resources, and improve water and food security.

According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Information Technology Report 2016, Qatar was ranked 27th in the Networked Readiness Index. The country excelled in several areas including government use of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) and national ICT skills, ranking fifth on both, globally. In addition, Qatar dominated among the Arab nations in the areas of political and regulatory environment, venture capital availability, individual ICT usage, education, and capacity for innovation.