By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Member States of the African
Telecommunications Union (ATU) have adopted the 2026 Abuja Declaration on
Meaningful Connectivity for Africa, committing to technology-neutral regulation
and a coordinated approach to expanding affordable internet access, broadband
infrastructure and digital inclusion across the continent.
The declaration was adopted
during the 7th Ordinary Session of the ATU Conference of Plenipotentiaries
(CPL-26) in Abuja, Nigeria, where ICT ministers, regulators and industry
stakeholders agreed on measures aimed at accelerating Africa's digital
transformation.
A key feature of the
declaration is the adoption of technology-neutral regulation, a policy approach
that allows different connectivity technologies, including fibre, mobile and
satellite networks, to compete and complement one another based on their ability
to deliver reliable and affordable services rather than regulatory preference.
The declaration outlines a
broad agenda that includes expanding broadband infrastructure, improving access
to spectrum and fibre networks, strengthening cybersecurity, enhancing consumer
protection, promoting digital inclusion and literacy, increasing smartphone
affordability and mobilising financing for digital development.
Member States also pledged
to deepen collaboration with the African Union Commission, the International
Telecommunication Union (ITU), regional economic communities, industry,
academia and civil society to advance universal and meaningful connectivity while
supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
The move comes as Africa
continues to face a significant digital usage gap. Although mobile broadband
networks cover the majority of the continent's population, internet adoption
remains comparatively low due to challenges including the high cost of smartphones,
expensive mobile data services, limited digital skills and inadequate
infrastructure in many underserved communities.
Industry stakeholders
believe technology-neutral regulation could encourage greater investment,
strengthen market competition and accelerate the deployment of connectivity
solutions, particularly in rural and remote areas where traditional
telecommunications infrastructure remains limited.
However, implementation is
expected to require coordinated policy reforms across Member States, as
countries continue to address varying regulatory environments, infrastructure
deficits and financing constraints while adapting to rapidly evolving digital
technologies.
The Abuja Declaration is
expected to guide the ATU's efforts to strengthen regional cooperation,
harmonise digital policies and create an enabling environment for investment
and innovation as Africa seeks to build a more inclusive, resilient and
connected digital economy.
