To shed light on the current state of telecommunications, Ecofin has taken a keen interest in a recent governmental initiative. The Department of Communications and Technology is actively reaching out to various stakeholders for feedback through an open forum. They’re eager to gather diverse perspectives and insights to shape future policies.
On Facebook, they gave us a sneak peek, proclaiming, “The unified fiber optic deployment policy aims to steer national telecom companies towards collaboration for the installation and enhancement of fiber optic cables.”
But here’s the scoop: The nation’s internal fiber optic framework is like patchwork—disconnected and way behind schedule. Despite having ties to five undersea cables with another en route, things are far from ideal. Talking ’bout distribution, it’s currently like trying to spread butter on a mile-long slice of bread—there ain’t enough for everyone. Earlier this year, the World Bank chipped in its two cents, noting, “The absence of a strong backbone network hampers the spread of international capacity nationwide, leading to uneven broadband access, varied network quality, limited redundancy, and snail-paced market competition.”
Ecofin throws more light on the issue with statistics pointing out that by the dawn of 2024, internet penetration stands meekly at 27.6%. That’s like less than a third of the country being plugged into the digital world. Several challenges loom large over digital expansion: most folks still find broadband-friendly gadgets a tad too pricey, data-infused services lack allure, local content in tune with the audiences is sparse, and the gap in digital skills is wide. Needless to say, these hiccups need attention alongside the development of digital infrastructure.
These hurdles, albeit frustrating, reflect broader challenges that require holistic remedies. It’s like making sure the wagon wheels are sturdy before setting off on a cross-country journey. In tackling these concerns, stakeholders—ranging from tech developers to educators—must roll up their sleeves and get down to business. After all, crafting a connected future hinges on more than just cables and connections; it’s about creating an ecosystem where technology thrives and enriches society.
In the pursuit of progress, it’s vital to foster an environment that embraces innovation and inclusivity. This means ensuring that communities, rural and urban alike, have equal opportunities to leverage digital resources. Only then will the stitching of a robust and cohesive network come to fruition.
Tech enthusiasts, policymakers, and everyday netizens must remember that the journey toward a digitally inclusive nation is a marathon, not a sprint. Each step—be it enhancing infrastructure or nurturing digital literacy—is critical. As the nation seeks to bridge the digital divide, collective collaboration and commitment to addressing root issues remain paramount.
To encapsulate, while the road to a unified and extensive digital framework is strewn with challenges, there’s promise on the horizon. The dialogue spurred by the public consultation is more than an administrative exercise; it’s a call to action, urging stakeholders to coalesce around a shared vision of technological advancement and equitable access. As the saying goes, “Teamwork makes the dream work,” and in this case, innovation coupled with collaboration will likely pave the path to a brighter, more connected future.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
