Measuring Africa’s internet connectivity

In today's interconnected world, access to the internet has become increasingly crucial for individuals' wellbeing and economic growth. While mobile broadband coverage has expanded to reach 96% of the global population, there remains a significant usage gap, particularly in low and middle-income countries. According to a recent report by Mobile for Development, over 90% of the unconnected population resides in these regions, posing a challenge in bridging the digital divide. The report highlights the potential economic benefits of increasing internet access, with projections indicating a potential $3.5 trillion boost to South Africa's GDP by 2030 if connectivity targets are met. Claire Sibthorpe, Head of Digital Inclusion at Mobile for Development, discussed the latest trends in internet usage and the barriers to access during a CNBC Africa interview. She emphasized that while there has been an increase in mobile internet users, the growth rate has slowed in recent years. In Sub-Saharan Africa, only 27% of the population currently uses mobile internet, with significant disparities based on gender and location. Women are 32% less likely than men to access the internet, and rural populations face greater connectivity challenges. One of the critical implications of limited internet access is its impact on education. Sibthorpe raised concerns about students in learning institutions who lack regular internet access and are thereby excluded from essential technological learning opportunities. The digital divide also affects access to vital services such as healthcare and financial resources, further exacerbating inequalities in developing countries. The report also shed light on the prevalence of shared devices among internet users in Sub-Saharan Africa, with approximately 5% of the population relying on shared access to the internet. Shared devices result in intermittent access and limit users' ability to develop digital skills, hindering their overall online experience. Additionally, the affordability of devices and the lack of digital literacy were identified as top barriers to internet usage in the region. When comparing Southern Africa to other regions globally, Sub-Saharan Africa faces significant challenges in mobile broadband coverage and internet usage. With 13% of the population lacking mobile internet network coverage, the region has the highest coverage gap. Moreover, affordability issues and gender disparities contribute to the digital divide, particularly in countries like South Africa. Addressing the digital divide requires collective efforts from various stakeholders, including governments, private sector entities, and civil society. Sibthorpe emphasized the need for increased investment in digital infrastructure, skill development programs, and initiatives to improve device affordability. She underscored the potential economic benefits of closing the internet usage gap, estimating a $625 billion GDP impact in Sub-Saharan Africa from 2023 to 2030 if connectivity barriers are addressed. In conclusion, closing the digital divide in Africa is not only a matter of connectivity but also a crucial step towards unlocking economic opportunities and promoting social inclusion. As policymakers and investors allocate resources, prioritizing digital infrastructure and skills development will be essential in harnessing the full potential of the digital economy for the region's sustainable growth and development.