Diseye Isoun discusses the broadband landscape in Africa, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for improving connectivity, particularly through the strengthening of ISPs.
Points
- Significant strides have been made in building infrastructure for internet access in Africa.
- Starlink’s impact on broadband connectivity in Nigeria is limited to middle and upper-class users.
- Strengthening ISPs is essential for widespread and affordable internet access.
- Last-mile delivery remains a critical challenge in achieving broadband penetration targets.
With Africa’s rapidly growing population, digital development faces critical challenges such as limited connectivity, a stubborn digital gender gap, and inadequate regulatory environments. Diseye Isoun, a key player in Africa’s broadband landscape, provides insights into these challenges and the way forward.
Broadband Landscape Today
Significant infrastructure projects like Google’s Equiano in West Africa and Umoja in the East have improved internet access in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. However, reliable broadband remains a challenge in many locations, affecting hubs of productivity such as educational institutions and healthcare centers.
Starlink’s Limited Impact
Elon Musk’s Starlink has been introduced in Nigeria, with about 30,000 installs predominantly among middle and upper-class users. Despite being ranked as the third leading ISP in Nigeria, Starlink’s high costs and lack of credit structures for financing limit its impact on broader connectivity.
Challenges in Affordability and Access
The high acquisition and subscription costs of Starlink make it inaccessible to many Nigerians. Even the upper middle class struggles with the costs, which compete with other expenses such as school fees and holiday vacations.
Strengthening ISPs for Better Connectivity
Isoun emphasizes that the key to improving internet access lies in strengthening local ISPs. Licensing young Nigerians as franchisees to distribute internet services within their communities could significantly enhance connectivity. This approach would also address the “last mile dilemma” by making internet access more affordable and widespread.
The Role of Satellite Internet
Satellite internet, combined with last-mile solutions, offers a feasible path to reliable connectivity. Investments should be balanced between fiber rollout, satellite backhaul, and support for last-mile ISPs to achieve comprehensive internet access.
State and Federal Policies
While state governments can influence right-of-way laws, most policy direction and incentives must come from the federal level. A cohesive plan that includes satellite, fiber, and last-mile solutions is essential for achieving Nigeria’s broadband penetration targets.
Conclusion
Improving broadband connectivity in Africa requires a multifaceted approach that strengthens ISPs, addresses last-mile delivery challenges, and integrates satellite solutions. By empowering local communities and ensuring affordable access, Africa can make significant strides towards becoming a global digital powerhouse.
