Despite Africa’s Advancement, Inconsistent Policies Hinder Equitable Digital Access  

Emma Okonji

Stakeholders have identified Africa’s inconsistent policies, as factor hindering equitable digital access on the continent, and have proffered solutions to address the digital access inequalities plaguing Africans and the rest of the world.   

MTN Group Chairman, Mcebisi Jonas; Togolese Minister, Cena Lawson; and GSMA’s John Giusti, were among the stakeholders that spoke at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, to address the digital access inequalities affecting the African nations.

The stakeholders gathered at Semafor’s ‘The Next 3 Billion’ summit in New York, United States of America, to address the African challenge at a panel session, during the UNGA summit.

Jonas emphasised the gender gap in digital connectivity as a significant challenge, noting that while advancements have been made in areas like health and financial services, inconsistent policy frameworks across African nations hinder equitable access.

According to him, “There is no one Africa,” while highlighting the diverse challenges faced by different countries despite shared issues.

He also called for public-private partnerships to combat disparities in affordability and digital literacy, proposing that collaboration among governments, private sector organisations, and international bodies is essential for addressing device affordability.

“Solving the issue of device affordability requires more than just the efforts of telecoms operators, but it also depends on what governments contribute,” he asserted. 

Giusti echoed his sentiments by identifying affordability and digital skills as the primary barriers to inclusion. He urged for innovative solutions to expand broadband access and enhance digital skills across Africa.

On her part, Lawson highlighted Togo’s initiatives to improve connectivity through fixed broadband investments, emphasising the importance of international partnerships in making internet services more affordable.

The panel discussion underscored the urgency of addressing digital inequalities, with approximately 40 per cent of the global population lacking mobile internet access, a staggering 58 per cent, which is in Africa. The panellists agreed that closing the gap remained vital for enhancing participation in economic and political processes, ultimately benefiting marginalised communities.

Semafor’s ‘The Next 3 Billion’ summit also featured discussions with global leaders, including Nigeria’s Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who is the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation; Nigeria’s Akinwunmi Adesina, who is the President of the African Development Bank Group; CEO of Flutterwave, Olugbenga Agboola; Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Dr. Bosun Tijani; CEO of Standard Bank, Sim Tshabalala; CEO of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Mark Suzman; and the President and Vice Chair of Microsoft, Brad Smith.