Africa is at a turning point in the changing global digital landscape. Although the continent’s population is young and dynamic, advancement is hampered by a wide digital gap. The divide between those who have access to digital technology and those who do not threatens fair growth and development. A coordinated effort by all parties involved—governments, big technology companies, media, donors, academics, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs)—is necessary to close this gap.

The Context

Africa has a population of more than 1.3 billion people, with approximately 60% under the age of 25. This youthful demographic represents not only a potential workforce but also a considerable market for digital goods and services. As urbanisation continues to soar, cities across Africa are becoming technology hubs, attracting investment and supporting innovation. Additionally, the continent is experiencing a high level of growth in mobile connectivity, with a considerable number of individuals accessing the Internet through smartphones. Despite these advantages, a large portion of the population remains disconnected, as demonstrated by Africa’s current Internet penetration, which stands slightly above 36 percent with 473 million active internet users, as indicated by CIO Africa. Out of these, 278 million users access the internet through their mobile phones. Another major challenge in the continent, as highlighted by the Africa Union, is that over 300 million people live 50km away from an active fibre optic connection, pointing to the continent’s large infrastructure gap. It must be emphasised that Africa’s digital exclusion deepens existing inequalities in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Therefore, bridging this divide is critical, not only for individual prosperity but also for the continent’s collective future.

This takes us to examine the role of various stakeholders in supporting efforts aimed at increasing internet accessibility, as highlighted below;

Governments

Since time immemorial, governments have continued to play an important role in creating and adopting policies and regulations that promote digital inclusion. By investing in infrastructure, such as expanding broadband access to rural and underserved areas, governments can lay the much-needed foundation for a digitally connected society. At the same time, policies that encourage local content creation and digital literacy can empower citizens and stimulate economic growth.

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) 

Non-governmental organisations have continued to support efforts to marshal community engagement while ensuring the voices of marginalised and under-served communities are heard. This has often entailed working on the ground and implementing programmes that provide training and resources to communities. By joining hands with governments, NGOs can help identify gaps in access while tailoring solutions to meet local needs. 

The media

The media fraternity has always played an instrumental role in increasing awareness about societal issues, challenges, and solutions. By magnifying success stories and the benefits of digital technology, the media can contribute towards influencing action among key stakeholders. Additionally, they can provide platforms for dialogue, leading to collaboration among stakeholders to address the challenge of digital exclusion.

Academia

Historically, academia has supported research and development of innovative solutions to address the digital divide, providing a ripe ground for universities to partner with industry stakeholders to create programmes that build students’ capacities, especially in digital economies. Through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), academic institutions can contribute to building and nurturing a generation of tech-savvy individuals with the capacity to take on and lead the continent’s digital transformation efforts.

Donors

Donors are important stakeholders as they provide funding and resources to support digital inclusion efforts, promoting technology access and digital literacy. Building on this endeavour, they can then assist organisations in scaling successful programmes while ensuring their sustainability. Joint efforts between donors and local organisations can lead to impactful projects.

Big tech organisations 

Big tech organisations have been instrumental in supporting knowledge sharing and expertise while fostering innovation and creative employment opportunities. They can also contribute by sharing knowledge and expertise and supporting initiatives that enhance digital skills and policies while pushing for equal access to technology.

The future

As the continent continues to grow, the potential for economic development through digital technology expands, too. By plugging the digital access gaps, Africa can access new markets, create entrepreneurs, and improve the quality of life for millions. Bridging the gap thereafter requires a unified front by all stakeholders, a move that will harness efforts to create a digitally inclusive society.