ICANN CEO on investment opportunities in Africa's digital economy

Internet users in Africa are set to benefit from faster access to online services and improved cybersecurity measures with the deployment of a new ICANN Managed Root Server (IMRS) cluster in Nairobi, Kenya. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is working in collaboration with its regional partners to ensure that more internet traffic remains within the African continent, rather than being routed to Europe. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, ICANN President and CEO Göran Marby shed light on the significance of this initiative for Africa's digital economy. The introduction of the IMRS cluster in Nairobi has already shown promising results, with a notable increase in internet traffic staying within Africa. This not only enhances internet efficiency but also reduces latency, enabling users to access online content more quickly. Additionally, the improved infrastructure contributes to bolstering cybersecurity measures, thereby mitigating the risks associated with cyber attacks on digital assets. Marby emphasized that ICANN's core focus is on providing a robust technical infrastructure that underpins global internet connectivity, ensuring that users worldwide can stay connected seamlessly. While cybersecurity threats remain a concern for many African countries, ICANN's efforts aim to fortify the foundational elements of internet stability and security. Discussing internet adoption trends in Africa, Marby highlighted the continent's impressive growth in internet penetration rates. Currently, Africa boasts one of the highest rates of internet penetration globally, reflecting a significant milestone in bridging the digital divide. However, challenges persist in ensuring universal access to affordable and reliable connectivity for all individuals across the region. Beyond the economic implications, Marby accentuated the transformative power of the internet in leveling the information playing field for all segments of society. By democratizing access to knowledge and resources, the internet serves as a catalyst for social and economic development, particularly in regions like Africa where unique business models and innovation opportunities abound. The interview delved into the broader implications of increased internet usage for Africa's economic landscape. As the internet evolves into a primary driver of growth and innovation, fostering a local digital ecosystem becomes paramount for harnessing the continent's full potential. Marby emphasized the importance of retaining internet traffic within Africa to support the emergence of homegrown digital solutions and entrepreneurial ventures. Addressing the issue of internet costs in Africa, Marby acknowledged the complex dynamics at play, including the challenges posed by linguistic diversity and the evolving digital landscape. While internet penetration rates are on the rise, the costs of expanding connectivity to underserved populations present a crucial barrier that needs to be tackled collaboratively. In conclusion, Marby underscored the critical need to uphold trust in the technical management of the internet to safeguard its integrity and reliability. Preserving this trust is vital for ensuring seamless communication, fostering innovation, and sustaining economic growth across borders. By actively engaging with stakeholders and fostering a spirit of collaboration, ICANN aims to uphold the internet as a shared resource that belongs to all Africans, underpinning a thriving digital economy for the continent.