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[SITUATION] · [QUIET] · [TECHNOLOGY]
2 clusters · 4 sources · 25 days · First seen · Last updated
African digital connectivity and affordability challenges
Overview
Africa is experiencing a widening digital divide as infrastructure expansion is hindered by the rising cost of hardware and data. While 4G coverage is high in several nations, nearly 60% of the continent remains unconnected because the average smartphone price has increased by $41 over a single year, reaching $202. This surge is attributed to rising memory chip costs, which has led to a 34% drop in deliveries of models priced under $100.
In response to these barriers, regional authorities and industry groups are calling for increased intervention. In Guinea, regulators have established a new department to improve oversight of service quality. Meanwhile, in Namibia and South Africa, officials and industry representatives are advocating for lower data costs and expanded broadband coverage to ensure access to education, employment, and financial services. In South Africa, there are specific calls for the implementation of free basic data allowances for those living below the poverty line to achieve meaningful connectivity.
Entities
Ministry of Information and Communication Technology · Internet Service Providers' Association · Namibia · ARPT · Omdia
Timeline
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[TECHNOLOGY] 2 sourcesDigital connectivity costs face calls for reduction in Namibia and South Africa
Digital leaders in Namibia and South Africa are pushing for lower data costs and improved device affordability to bridge the digital divide and enable participation in the digital economy.
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[TECHNOLOGY] 2 sourcesAfrica faces digital divide as smartphone costs rise
Africa's digital divide widens as rising smartphone costs hinder connectivity despite high network coverage. Meanwhile, regulators in Guinea are implementing new measures to improve telecommunications service.
Sources
africancio.com · confidentenamibia.com · osiris.sn · techfinancials.co.za