African Nations Commit to Expanding Internet Access by 20% in Five Years

NAIROBI—The Connected African Summit 2024 concluded this week at Uhuru Gardens with a collective agreement among African nations to significantly increase internet access throughout the continent. The five-day summit, running from April 21-25, gathered ICT and Communication Ministers from 35 African countries, as well as various regional ambassadors, to strategize on enhancing digital connectivity.

According to Kenya News Agency, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy in Kenya, the summit produced a joint commitment to improve internet access by 20% over the next five years. In his closing remarks, Owalo emphasized the collective dedication of the attendees to propel Africa into a digital era, underscoring the necessity of cooperation and innovation to achieve this transformation.

The summit outlined plans to train one million young Africans in digital skills by 2027 as part of a broader vision for a digitally empowered Africa by 2030. Owalo highlighted that future collaborations would focus on sustainability, accountability, and inclusiveness, with a keen adherence to human rights, including privacy.

Owalo also noted that during the summit, participants reviewed the operational challenges in the digital sphere and outlined strategic responses to these issues. The discussions led to a clear identification of key technological priorities for the continent and a framework for implementing targeted programs and activities.

Furthermore, the summit emphasized the importance of harmonizing digital policies across Africa to accelerate the continent’s potential as a leading global trade powerhouse under the African Continental Free Trade Area Framework.

Veerakumar Natarajan, East Africa Regional Manager for Zoho Corporation, discussed the role of digital tools in economic growth and development, particularly through support for SME startups and innovations. He explained that Zoho’s cloud-based solutions are designed to foster business growth through digital transformation and local partnerships.

The Connected Africa Summit 2024, themed ‘Shaping the Future of a Connected Africa: Unlocking Growth Beyond Connectivity,’ was officially closed by Deputy President of Kenya, Rigathi Gachagua, who reiterated the imperative for Africa to embrace the digital revolution and its vast socio-economic benefits.