Kenya is among the 11 African countries selected to benefit from an initial $16.2 million budget allocated to Africa’s National Broadband Mapping Systems project. This significant announcement was made during the Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR-24) held in Kampala, Uganda, hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
Enhancing Digital Infrastructure and Investment
Supported by the European Commission, the project aims to establish broadband mapping systems across participating African nations. These systems will play a crucial role in identifying gaps in internet connectivity regarding coverage, quality, and affordability. By leveraging comprehensive data from these mapping initiatives, the project seeks to facilitate data-driven decision-making for digital infrastructure investments.
Impact and Benefits for African Nations
ITU highlighted that the initiative will foster digital transformation across the continent. It is expected to enhance the regulatory environment, encourage investment in digital infrastructure, and ultimately contribute to socio-economic development in participating countries. The initial phase of the project will focus on countries including Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Regulatory Guidelines for ICT Transformation
During GSR-24, African regulators endorsed a set of guidelines aimed at maximizing the benefits of transformative Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Known as the “GSR-24 Best Practice Guidelines”, these recommendations emphasize the importance of balancing innovation with effective regulation to ensure positive societal and economic impacts from emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI).
Global Collaboration and Future Outlook
ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin underscored the symposium’s role in promoting innovation, trust, and inclusivity within the policy and regulatory frameworks governing digital technologies. The event convened over 600 participants, including government ministers, regulatory authorities, industry leaders, and academics, reflecting a global commitment to addressing critical regulatory challenges in the digital era.
