Africa's Internet Shortfall
Posted by Celia Walter | 10 Oct, 2011What stands in the way of bridging the digital chasm? By Adrian Craddock
Prior to the 2010 South Africa World Cup, submarine fibre optic cabling was laid to improve the speed and reliability of broadband. Despite this, Internet World Statistics reports that only 11.4% of Africans have internet access, far below the global average of 30.2%. Considering that a World Bank study suggests every 10% of broadband penetration increases developing countries’ per capita GDP growth by 1.38%, the scarcity of Africa’s online network has significant economic repercussions.
According to Telecoms analyst Ovum, it is high prices that are standing in the way of bridging the digital divide. Senior Analyst Richard Hurst said: “Some countries have broadband pricing double or triple the price of an equivalent service in a more developed market.” Nigeria exemplifies this with broadband starting at $1,211 per year. Considering that the country’s gross national income per capita is $1,180, only the highest socio-economic groups can afford broadband internet access.
Africa Peering and Interconnection Forum
Speaking at last month’s Africa Peering and Interconnection Forum (AfPIF) in Ghana, independent IT consultant Mike Jensen blamed prices on a lack of competition. "There are few wholesale/carrier licenses issued and in some cases [there is] discrimination against new entrants," he said. A report published by African IT expert Olof Hesselmark supports Jensen’s view. Hesselmark writes that many countries have state-run telecom monopolies that insist on remaining the sole suppliers of international gateways and bandwidth... [more]Think Africa Press
Adrian Craddock is a freelance journalist based in London. He has produced work for the BBC World Service, The Weekend West Australian, and Crikey.com.au. His interests include youth affairs and media practices.