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Although mobile broadband reaches 82% of the population, barriers like affordability and digital illiteracy prevent many from reaping its benefits said Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary UNECA at the 13th Africa Internet Governance Forum at Addis Ababa.
Although mobile broadband reaches 82% of the population, barriers like affordability and digital illiteracy prevent many from reaping its benefits said Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary UNECA at the 13th Africa Internet Governance Forum at Addis Ababa. Furthermore, Africa’s share in global digital platforms is less than 1 percent, and ICT exports constitute a mere 0.85 per cent of the world’s total exports. And these disparities extend into critical areas.
According to the Executive Secretary, nearly 500 million Africans lack recognized forms of identification, which limits their access to essential services and economic opportunities. Also, women make up only 24% of Africa’s tech workforce – a reflection of the urgent need for gender equity in digital spaces. Cybersecurity threats and data sovereignty challenges remain significant barriers to the development of resilient digital ecosystems. “Despite these challenges, we have seen examples of remarkable ingenuity and transformative innovation across the continent,” he continued.
Gatete said countries like Kenya, Nigeria and Egypt lead the way in tech start-ups and thriving innovative ecosystems. In addition to this, platforms like Rwanda’s Irembo showcase the transformative power of e-governance in improving lives. These achievements highlight Africa’s ability to innovate and adapt. Indeed, with the right investments and policies, the continent can overcome its challenges and lead in the digital era.
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The Economic Commission for Africa approaches the digital divide as a socio-economic issue – one that requires bold, multi-dimensional interventions. And our work is anchored in five strategic priorities. They include bridging the digital divide through initiatives like the Connected African Girls, World Robots Olympiad and Digital Public Infrastructure; and ensuring inclusion and equity in the digital economy by supporting digital ID systems across the continent and empowering fintech to drive inclusive economic growth.
