The World Bank recently published a report on Internet access in Africa, produced in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union, the United Nations agency dedicated to information and communication technologies, and based on national household surveys.
This survey also revealed the ten most connected countries in Africa. With Morocco and the Seychelles leading the way in terms of connectivity, Gabon is the only French-speaking sub-Saharan African country to feature in the top 10, with an internet penetration rate of 50%. From a global perspective, the World Bank estimates an average of 22% of internet users in sub-Saharan Africa, compared to 55% in North Africa and the Middle East, with a global average of 49%.
Despite the undisputed rise of digital technology on the continent, many regions of Africa still remain underserved when it comes to internet connectivity.
Satellite telecom operators are stepping up initiatives to increase their investments on the continent and extend internet access to even the most remote areas.
Recently, the American company Intelsat announced the signing of a partnership agreement with Stratosat Datacom. This agreement will strengthen broadband internet connectivity throughout Central Africa in order to open up localities in the region that are still underserved. The partnership will combine the broadband connectivity services provided by Intelsat's satellites with the engineering and management services of Stratosat Datacom. As part of this initiative, the American company aims to support the growth of local and regional economies and reduce digital deserts.
On August 4, SpaceX also announced its ambitions for the African continent. The company launched the Israeli satellite Amos 17, which will provide internet, cellular, and television services primarily to the African continent.