Expanding Africa’s digital infrastructure

USTDA, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, is taking significant steps to support digital infrastructure development in Africa, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Heather Lanigan, the Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at USTDA, highlighted the agency's commitment to partnering with U.S. companies to promote sustainable infrastructure development in emerging markets. Lanigan emphasized the crucial role of digital infrastructure in driving economic growth in partner countries and the wealth of solutions and services that U.S. companies can offer in this sector. The agency recently awarded a grant to Jilillian, a Southern African company, to conduct a feasibility study on terrestrial fiber connectivity between Namibia, Angola, and the DRC. This initiative aims to ensure that inland populations across these countries can benefit from subsea cables landing on the continent. The focus on these countries is driven by the credible potential for infrastructure development and the opportunities they present for U.S. companies. Lanigan discussed the project's timeline, highlighting the importance of meticulous project preparation to ensure a well-structured deal and sustainable implementation. The study, led by a U.S. firm, Total Impact Capital, will kick off with a phased rollout, starting with a link between Angola and Namibia. Subsequent phases will extend the connectivity to the DRC and include access infrastructure development. Beyond digital infrastructure, USTDA is actively involved in supporting projects across various sectors like clean energy, transportation, and healthcare infrastructure. With a robust portfolio of over 60 projects in collaboration with public and private sector partners, the agency is poised to drive significant impact in the region. Lanigan's reassurance about the agency's continued focus on energy projects in Africa, spanning multiple administrations, underscores their commitment to sustainable infrastructure development. Addressing the funding challenges in Africa's infrastructure sector, Lanigan emphasized the importance of proving project bankability to attract investments. USTDA plays a pivotal role in bridging this gap by working closely with financiers to create viable business models that ensure project implementation and affordability. Lanigan acknowledged the complexities of infrastructure project development but expressed optimism about the increasing interest and investment in Africa, indicative of the continent's growing potential. As the digital landscape evolves and the spotlight shifts to Africa for investment opportunities, USTDA's strategic initiatives in expanding digital infrastructure underscore a concerted effort to drive economic development and sustainable growth across the region.