This archive report was first published on 4 January 2020.
January 4, 2020, marked a stark reality for Africa's internet users: the continent's internet speeds are among the lowest globally, yet the costs are among the highest.
According to data, many African countries struggle with bandwidth as low as 64 kilobits, a far cry from the 270,000 megabits per second enjoyed in the US. The Republic of Congo, Sao Tome, Ethiopia, Niger, and Equatorial Guinea are among the countries where downloading a 5GB movie takes an astonishing amount of time – 734 minutes, 788 minutes, 850 minutes, 965 minutes, and 1,342 minutes, respectively.
On the other hand, Singapore boasts the fastest download speeds, taking a mere 11 minutes and eight seconds to download a typical 5GB high-definition movie.
Despite having the fastest-growing mobile telecommunication market, Africa's mobile penetration remains low. The challenge lies in outdated infrastructure, accessibility, and environmental concerns. Telecommunication masts, for instance, pose a severe environmental and physical risk, especially when constructed without proper regulation.
However, advanced technologies are emerging to address these challenges. Resource virtualisation, for example, allows multiple telecommunication services to be provided by less physical infrastructure, reducing operational costs, improving accessibility, and cutting costs to the end user.
As the world grapples with the complexities of internet access, it is imperative that Africa takes a proactive approach to address its unique challenges. By embracing innovative technologies and prioritising environmental sustainability, the continent can bridge the digital divide and unlock its full potential.
