This archive report was first published on 15 May 2020.
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become increasingly clear that the digital divide between Africa and the rest of the world is a major obstacle to progress.
According to UNESCO data, only 55% of households globally are connected to the internet, with the mobile internet adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa standing at an average of 24%.
As the world turns to digital technologies to cope with the pandemic, it is clear that Africa is being left behind. The region accounts for 40% of the global population not covered by a mobile broadband network.
But it's not just about access to the internet. The pandemic has also highlighted the need for digital technologies in areas such as education and healthcare.
Online learning is becoming increasingly important, but for millions of children in Kenya and sub-Saharan Africa, it is only a remote possibility. They can only access learning from less interactive channels such as SMS, radio, and in even lesser cases, TV.
However, technology is proving to be effective in aiding the education sector. Cloud storage has made it easier for students to access research materials compared to going through piles of books for their assignments.
As the CEO of Safaricom, I believe that there are opportunities for universities and other higher learning institutions to partner with technology firms to create solutions for eLearning, reducing costs and increasing the level of education.
Telemedicine also needs to become the new normal, with doctors in rural areas being able to hold 4G-enabled video conferences with their counterparts abroad, sharing best practices on how to deal with the Coronavirus and sharing knowledge across the country.
As we look to the future, it is clear that technology will play a critical role in helping Africa bridge the digital divide.
By leveraging mobile technology to scale agriculture capabilities, especially for smallholders' farmers, we can reduce the negative impact of erratic weather and improve food security.
It's time for Africa to innovate and adapt to the new circumstances, and to harness the power of digital technologies to drive progress and development.
