Access to digital technology still a challenge in Africa, new study shows

By Victor MUJIDU

Access to digital technology in Africa remains an obstacle, particularly to the persons living with disabilities , a new report highlighting the state of digital rights and inclusion on the continent has revealed.

The 2022 Paradigm Initiative report on Digital Rights and Inclusion, further shows that governments haven’t done enough to adress gender inequality in bridging the digital gap, pointing out that men have continued to outrank women in various indices, from the adoption and use of ICT tools to employment opportunities.

“Despite progress in bridging this divide, men continue to outrank women in various indices, from adopting and using ICT tools to employment opportunities. The introduction of prohibitive levies and taxes, which emerged as a common theme in the period under review, further impeded general access, as seen in Ghana, Malawi, and Uganda, amongst others,” the report states.

According to the author of the Kenyan report, Ms. Jackie Okello “Kenya does not have a tangible law that tackles internet access and the country has a broadband strategy which lays down the government’s plans on how to facilitate broadband access in areas that are not covered by the internet.”

The Londa report also censures the government’s action on burdening the countries with taxes and levies which has impeded general access to the digital realm as seen in Malawi, Ghana, and Uganda.

It also discusses the issues surrounding data privacy and governance and the lack of accountability and oversight mechanisms for digital identification systems. Notably, Nigeria has taken steps towards a better data protection framework by releasing a draft Data Protection Bill, improving the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation.

Londa’s recommendations cover a range of stakeholders, including the private sector, civil society, governments, the media and academia. By implementing these recommendations and working together, stakeholders can build a strong and sustainable digital environment in Africa where everyone can exercise their rights online.

The report also notes that as emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) gain traction, awareness, and adoption are growing on the continent.

“Recent developments with AI tools demonstrate not only the potential the technology possesses to accelerate socio-economic growth but also to aggravate existing inequalities.”

This, the report adds, underscores the need for rights-respecting AI frameworks across all sectors.

“For a continent where frameworks can be an afterthought and legislation often a knee-jerk reaction, playing catchup must desist. Frameworks and strategies need to be well-intentioned, adequately safeguard human rights, accommodate emerging trends and issues, and be transparently implemented,” it further states.

Regarding the Universal Service Fund (USF), the report mentions that the fund exists in 22 out of 24 countries reported in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tunisia, Uganda, Togo, The Gambia, Tanzania, Sudan, Rwanda, Nigeria, Malawi, Kenya, Ethiopia, Central African Republic, Benin, South Sudan, Namibia, and Botswana. However, information on the number of funds raised, transparency, and impact varies widely among the 22 countries.

Paradigm Initiative (PIN) connects underserved young Africans with digital opportunities and ensures the protection of their rights.