Africa’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, but significant gaps in connectivity, infrastructure and digital capabilities remain. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), only 38% of Africa’s population used the Internet in 2024, compared with a global average of 68%. Mobile broadband covered 86% of the population, but only 11% had access to 5G, highlighting the scale of the infrastructure investment still required.
At the same time, the rapid development of artificial intelligence presents an opportunity for African markets to leapfrog traditional models of technology adoption. The World Bank highlights connectivity, computing capacity, data and digital skills as critical foundations for countries looking to harness AI effectively.
Hosted in partnership with Eversheds Sutherland, this discussion will explore how Africa can strengthen its digital foundations while positioning itself to capture the opportunities created by AI and emerging technologies. The conversation will consider the investment required in connectivity and data infrastructure, the role of regulation and policy, and how businesses and governments can create the conditions for Africa’s technology ecosystem to scale.
In partnership with
