As the Mobile World Congress (MWC)
2023, the flagship mobile industry and technology event, kicks off in Barcelona
this week, I look forward to engaging and learning from fellow leaders in the
industry on network development, 5G, digital inclusion, regulation, FinTech,
data economy among others.
I am particularly curious
to see the wide range of technologies, trends, and innovations in mobile
technology, as well as network with peers in the industry, and gain insights
into the future through the products and solutions that will be showcased.
This is important
especially given the global interest use of technology to power growth and
development. The power of connectivity in aiding our societies thrive and
economic growth cannot be overemphasised.
Progress has been made in
growing Africa’s network connectivity. In Kenya for instance, Safaricom
provides connectivity with over 95% of the population covered with 4G
technology; and 5G network which we launched last year is currently being
rolled out in various parts of the country.
But beyond infrastructure,
the other major challenges impeding digital inclusion especially in the
continent is the high cost of devices and lack of funding to ensure
availability and ease of access.
My question to my industry
peers at MWC Barcelona is, how do we sustain digital connectivity investments
in sub-Saharan Africa?
As I deliberate the
question, I would like to point out the critical role Governments play in
creating an enabling environment for infrastructure development that supports
digital inclusion programmes. This can be through interventions in policy; tax
incentives for investment in fibre-optic cables and data centres; and smart
phone manufacturing incentives among others.
Hence, these investments
require a collaborative approach with all stakeholders both in the private and
public sectors. Already, Mobile Network Operators are projected to invest
approximately $35.5 billion by 2025 in a bid to reach universal coverage and
improve service delivery.
Collaborations with global
technology organisations are also vital in sustaining digital connectivity
investments to address some of the challenges, such as access to affordable
devices, technical expertise exchange, improving digital literacy and skills
training, and infrastructure to enhance connectivity in underserved areas.
Partnerships with such
companies are a growth lever for African tech companies. Enabling them to have
a greater impact on the technology ecosystem in Africa and beyond; and as such
allow them to compete on a global level and enjoy the economies of scale that
come with it.
At Safaricom we know the
benefits of such partnerships. Our partnership with Google in the 4G device
financing project, ‘Lipa
Mdogo Mdogo’ initiative, ensures 4G devices are put in the hands
at an affordable daily repayment plan.
As a sustainable business
that combines the power of technology and innovation to transform lives and
society, one of our focus areas is to create a digital talent pool.
Collaboration will accord us an opportunity to increase skills capacity within
several key areas, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, IoT,
big data and analytics, cybersecurity, cloud computing, fintech, robotic
process automation, software engineering, among others.
I look forward to
opportunities to formulate strategies with policy makers, civil society
organisations and academia on digital connectivity and its impact on society.
There is also a huge potential for the private sector to work with Governments
on ways to promote transparency, accountability, digital training for
marginalised communities, and closing the digital gender divide.
By bringing governments,
the private sector and civil society together, we can create a more equitable
and connected Africa while also ensuring that user data is protected, and all
the necessary safeguards are installed.
This is how we will be
able to unlock the full potential of digital technologies, drive economic
growth, improve social outcomes, and promote a more sustainable future for
sub-Saharan Africa. At Safaricom, we are committed to driving purpose-led
growth for our customers, shareholders and the communities we serve.
By: Peter Ndegwa, Chief Executive Officer of Safaricom PLC
