Rural community networks, electricity, and digital inclusion were discussed at the 17th annual Internet Governance Forum in Ethiopia, which took place in Addis Ababa from November 28 to December 2, 2022.
There may be regional differences in internet connectivity within the same nation; urban areas frequently have better connectivity than rural and remote places. Lack of connectivity in rural areas is frequently preceded by a lack of investment in infrastructure.
Energy and cost must be taken into consideration when promoting wider connectivity. The expenses, availability of electricity, and connectivity in rural and isolated places must all be taken into account.
A similar approach that can provide limitless and sustainable connectivity throughout 95% of the surface of the Earth is the “Internet Backpack” project. Its multipurpose feature, a microgrid and antenna, offers dispersed access to resources in many parts of the world, benefiting operations in the fields of emergency response, health care, and education.
Another crucial factor in fostering connection is spectrum distribution. Governments frequently view spectrum, which is a limited resource, as a source of income. Typically, there are just a few companies in this market (monopolies). Small-time internet providers cannot access much or any spectrum segmentation in rural areas. Large telecom companies rarely make investments in regions with less than 5,000 residents since the revenues won’t cover the costs.
Therefore, it is necessary to engage policymakers so that they recognize small-time operators, such as community networks, and formulate timely policies to assist them. An infrastructure built by the community itself should not be seen as competing with big telecommunication operators. One should try to strike a balance between profit and benefit to a community. For example, in Ghana, the National IT Agency manages its spectrum allocations through so-called Enhanced Community Centres, which are digital hubs that provide last-mile connectivity without charge to villages. These centres allow people to improve life through the opportunities the internet offers (e.g., online classes to improve employability skills). Despite having initiatives on affordable energy (e.g., lifeline electricity tariff), Ghana still faces a lack of resources (e.g., electricity meters) and the high cost of devices.
To take advantage of the potential presented by the absence of connectivity, a community-based approach and collaboration with various stakeholders are required. To solve the problems presented by the 2030 Agenda, in addition to fostering more connectivity, is the issue. Communities could have access to digital financial systems, which would enable the development of a digital economy, for instance by deploying the Internet Backpack in rural and distant places and altering spectrum allotment policies. Communities are transformed when there is meaningful connectivity, which enables people to develop their digital literacy and abilities.
Involving policymakers and making the evidence of the advantages of greater connection accessible to them are crucial roles played by civil society organizations. Teachers in particular need to be adept at using digital tools in government. Delivering training programs to increase communities’ digital literacy and skills involves collaboration.
Additionally, a team from Bangladesh took part in the 17th UN IGF. As a member of the Bangladesh delegation team, AHM Bazlur Rahman, CEO of Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication, also participated.
According to Mr. Rahman, the five core themes of the IGF were primarily focused on a resilient Internet for a Shared Sustainable and Common Future. These themes were in line with the United Nations Secretary-proposed General’s Global Digital Compact. The following five themes are:
