African nations adopt plan for cheaper internet, smartphones

African countries have adopted a new strategy to enhance digital connectivity and spur economic growth, committing to cheaper internet access, affordable smartphones, and technology-neutral regulations. This commitment is formalized in the 2026 Abuja Declaration on Meaningful Connectivity for Africa, agreed upon at the close of the 7th Ordinary Session of the African Telecommunications Union Conference of Plenipotentiaries in Abuja.

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While millions have yet to benefit from digital transformation, we know what it takes to close the gap.

The declaration obliges member states to improve digital affordability, expand broadband infrastructure, bolster consumer protection and cybersecurity, and promote digital literacy, with a focus on women, youth, persons with disabilities, and underserved communities. The conference also saw Zambia’s Kezias Mwale elected as the next Secretary-General of the ATU, and Nigeria assumed the chairmanship of the Conference of Plenipotentiaries.

Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), emphasized that enabling policies, affordability, and digital capacity are key to bridging Africa's digital divide. She urged governments to adopt technology-neutral policies that foster competition and lower prices. While mobile broadband reaches 86% of Africa's population, only 36% are connected, and mobile data costs nearly double the global affordability target.

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Technology neutrality makes complementarity possible, unlocking healthy market competition that lowers prices and expands coverage.

Bogdan-Martin also highlighted that approximately $265 million in Universal Service Funds across 12 African countries remains unused, resources that could address last-mile connectivity gaps. Initiatives like the GSMA Handset Affordability Coalition aim to increase the availability of affordable devices. She stressed that digital skills are equally crucial for the continent's youth to benefit from emerging technologies, noting that people seek connectivity to improve healthcare, education, and job opportunities.

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People don’t wake up in the morning asking for artificial intelligence; they want better health care, better education, better jobs and better public services.