Tuesday 2 June, 2026
More people in Sub-Saharan Africa are using mobile internet than ever before, yet a significant digital divide remains. While most unconnected individuals live in areas already covered by mobile broadband, many still face other barriers such as affordability and a lack of digital skills.
The session opened with a presentation from Kim Viljoen, Market Engagement Director at the GSMA, on the latest findings from The State of Mobile Internet Connectivity 2025, followed by opening remarks from Honourable Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation of Rwanda, and John Giusti, Chief Regulatory Officer at the GSMA. They set the stage for a conversation on how governments, industry and partners can work together to connect the unconnected.
A panel discussion, moderated by Naomi Wangui from the GSMA, then brought together Nompilo Morafo (MTN Group), Sylvester Moyo (Vodacom Group) and Sandra Handou (Axian Telecom). The discussion explored practical strategies to drive digital inclusion — from improving affordability through device financing and subsidies, to strengthening digital skills, energy access and sustainable partnerships.
The session concluded with a shared message: closing the digital divide is essential to unlocking Africa’s full potential in the age of AI.
To learn more about our work on digital inclusion, please visit the Connected Society programme. Initiatives mentioned during the session are available here:
