Live from MWC Kigali 2023: Rashina Kohn, Executive Director and CEO of Smart Africa (caught in the photo) noted the potential for 5G to be a game-changer for Africa, but, together with colleagues on the SAMENA Council, pointed to the continued digital adoption challenges facing markets in the region.
In the event’s second keynote, Cohn promoted future use cases that, when strategically implemented, can create significant societal impact, such as starting use cases for telemedicine and IoT.
He described 5G as “one of the most transformative technological advances of our time,” adding, “It will disrupt our industries, create new opportunities and enable Africa’s digital leap forward.” I think this is a revolutionary element.”
In addition to opening up digital use cases, Kone said the ability to turn off traditional 2G and 3G systems will benefit from the ability to turn off traditional 2G and 3G systems in terms of spectrum restructuring and energy efficiency (factors cited by carriers in several markets in recent years). He said there are also advantages.
Bocar Ba, CEO of SAMENA Telecommunications Council, championed targeted 5G deployment in the region, saying, “In the era of fifth-generation digital technologies, we need to expand Africa through regional innovation and a smart mix of fit-for-purpose technologies. It is essential to connect and build,” he added.
He added: “Africa is in the early stages of 5G deployment and it is essential to obtain harmonized space through spectrum auctions, pilots and commercial trials and identify relevant use cases locally.” Ta.
barrier
However, as both speakers raised, barriers remain to expanding the use of digital technologies in communities with low adoption rates.
Cohn pointed to the need for more affordable connectivity and devices, the latter of which regional players are working on in parallel with improving their digital skills.
Mr Ba said the problem of people in the region who are eligible for but not accessing mobile internet services (known as the access gap) is “mainly due to the affordability of mobile phones and broadband, and the lack of digital skills.” “This is due to the lack of relevant content.”
