GSMA’s Mats Granryd on how to close the connectivity gap in SSA

The Director General of GSMA, Mats Granryd, highlighted the potential of a connected and dynamic Africa enabled by inclusive mobile connectivity during an interview with CNBC Africa. Granryd emphasized the need for deep political support and partnerships to bridge the connectivity and usage gaps on the continent. Granryd acknowledged that while MWC serves as a platform for industry discussions on technology and regulation, the collaboration of multiple stakeholders, beyond just telcos, is essential to connect the remaining 75% of Africans. He stressed the importance of addressing both the coverage gap, which stands at 15% of the population lacking mobile broadband access, and the usage gap, where over 50% of Africans choose not to connect due to issues like affordability, skills, and relevant content. The GSMA official highlighted the significance of collaboration with governments, private sectors, and NGOs to address these challenges. He noted initiatives like Airtel's affordable handset offering in Rwanda and emphasized the need for financing schemes to make connectivity more accessible. Granryd also underscored the importance of digital inclusion for women, who are disproportionately affected by the usage gap, pointing to mobile money as a tool for financial inclusion and empowerment. Granryd further discussed the implications of maintaining the status quo, where Africa's 59% usage gap exceeds the global average of 38%. He emphasized the urgency of closing this gap to ensure broader participation in the digital economy, digital identity access, and improved livelihoods. Granryd called for collective efforts from governments, regulators, content creators, NGOs, and industry players to drive digital inclusion and leverage the transformative power of mobile connectivity. In conclusion, Granryd reiterated the industry's responsibility to push for greater connectivity and digital inclusion, recognizing the complexity of the challenges ahead. He emphasized the potential benefits of reducing the usage gap, such as expanding the economy, fostering entrepreneurship, and empowering individuals to thrive in a digital future. Granryd underscored the importance of gender equality in connectivity, highlighting mobile money as a tool to address financial inclusion and uplift women in society. As Africa continues to strive for greater connectivity and inclusivity, the insights and solutions shared by Mats Granryd shed light on the path forward to bridging the connectivity gap and unlocking the continent's digital potential.