Author: waictanet

Freetown, Sierra Leone – The West Africa ICT Action Network (WAICTANet) is thrilled to announce the return of the Sierra Leone Digital & Financial Inclusion Roundtable, scheduled for December 4, 2024, in Freetown. Building on the success of the inaugural 2023 edition, this year’s event highlights the theme “From Policy to Practice: Transforming Sierra Leone through Digital Inclusion and Financial Literacy.” It aims to bring together policymakers, industry leaders, financial institutions, technology providers, and community advocates to accelerate meaningful, on-the-ground progress in Sierra Leone’s digital and financial landscapes.

Peterking Quaye, Founder & Executive Director of WAICTANet, emphasized the pressing need for action in Sierra Leone’s journey towards digital and financial inclusivity. “The 2024 roundtable is both a call to action and a bridge between policy commitments and practical impact,” he stated. “This year, we are focusing on translating policies into tangible outcomes—making digital resources accessible to all Sierra Leoneans and advancing financial literacy across communities.” Partnerships with key local organizations, such as the Sierra Leone Association of Women in Journalism (SLAWIJ) and the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter, are expected to amplify the event’s impact.

Despite some progress, Sierra Leone still lags behind other African nations in both digital access and financial literacy, ranking lower on indices of internet penetration, digital literacy, and financial inclusion. While mobile technology adoption has grown steadily, significant barriers—such as high data costs, limited rural connectivity, and financial illiteracy—continue to restrict Sierra Leoneans, especially in underserved and rural communities, from fully participating in the digital economy.

Notably, mobile penetration remains limited in rural areas, where even basic internet access can be scarce. While neighboring countries, such as Ghana and Nigeria, have made significant strides in mobile banking and digital payment adoption, Sierra Leone faces challenges that require a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder response. Limited infrastructure, a shortage of digital skills, and financial literacy gaps have slowed the momentum toward an inclusive digital economy.

The event is a platform to commend the Sierra Leonean government’s initial steps in prioritizing digital inclusion. Several governmental initiatives, such as digital IDs and mobile banking partnerships, have set the foundation. However, to sustain and amplify these efforts, deeper collaboration with telecommunications companies, financial institutions, and tech providers is essential. The telecommunications sector, in particular, plays a critical role in making affordable connectivity a reality for all, while banks and financial institutions can expand accessible financial products tailored for underserved populations.

WAICTANet is calling on telcos and key private sector players to support these inclusion efforts by providing affordable, reliable internet access, expanding network coverage, and promoting financial services that meet the needs of low-income, unbanked communities. Collaboration between public and private stakeholders is not only crucial for infrastructure development but also for designing inclusive digital and financial literacy programs that resonate with Sierra Leone’s unique socio-economic landscape.

This year’s event agenda is crafted to facilitate meaningful, actionable dialogue. Panels will feature speakers from SLAWIJ, the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter, and prominent local organizations, focusing on bridging the digital divide for women, youth, and rural communities. Through interactive workshops, stakeholders will work together to devise actionable solutions that address Sierra Leone’s unique challenges and leverage digital resources for inclusive growth.

As the Sierra Leone Digital & Financial Inclusion Roundtable enters its second year, WAICTANet envisions a future where policies are transformed into concrete outcomes, enabling Sierra Leoneans from all backgrounds to access digital services and improve their financial literacy. The insights gathered from this year’s discussions will guide ongoing initiatives and policy recommendations, paving the way for a more digitally inclusive Sierra Leone. WAICTANet remains committed to fostering collaboration and driving action toward a future where everyone—urban and rural, young and old—can benefit from the opportunities afforded by a thriving digital economy. This event is a vital step in ensuring Sierra Leone’s digital and financial inclusion efforts are resilient, sustainable, and inclusive.

The West Africa ICT Action Network (WAICTANet) recognizes Starlink’s ambitious efforts to bring high-speed satellite internet to West Africa, particularly in Ghana and Nigeria, as a potential game-changer for digital connectivity in regions where traditional infrastructure is limited or nonexistent. However, the current limitations in Starlink’s ground station infrastructure present significant challenges that could hinder the full realization of digital and financial inclusion goals in the Mano River Union (MRU) region and across Africa. With construction on ground stations only recently beginning in Lagos, and full operational capacity expected by the end of 2024, there is a risk that service gaps and connectivity bottlenecks may persist in the short term.

Peterking Quaye, Founder & Executive Director of WAICTANet, emphasizes the importance of a robust digital infrastructure that extends beyond urban centers to adequately support West Africa’s rapidly growing demand for reliable internet services. “While Starlink’s entry into the African market is a promising development, the concentration of service in highly populated areas like Lagos and Accra raises concerns about equitable access. For true digital inclusion, Starlink and similar providers must prioritize ground station expansion that serves both urban and underserved rural areas, enabling the satellite network to effectively bridge the digital divide,” Quaye stated. He further highlights the need for government involvement to ensure that the growth of satellite internet services aligns with national goals for digital inclusion and does not leave rural populations disconnected from essential online services, such as digital banking and e-commerce.

As high-speed internet becomes an increasingly crucial driver of economic development, the lack of sufficient ground station coverage threatens to exacerbate existing socio-economic inequalities. Without reliable internet, rural and underserved communities face barriers in accessing digital financial services, participating in e-commerce, and leveraging online educational resources—limiting both individual opportunities and overall regional economic growth. The MRU region, which includes economically vulnerable areas, would greatly benefit from a more inclusive approach to infrastructure deployment. In the absence of broader ground station coverage, urban-centric service provision risks leaving millions disconnected from the digital economy.

WAICTANet advocates for a strategic approach that incorporates consumer protection, ensuring that citizens’ right to equitable, high-quality service is upheld. Governments in the MRU region and across Africa must work with telecom regulators and service providers to establish policies that encourage infrastructure development beyond urban hubs. This includes enacting measures to protect consumers against issues like service throttling, data congestion, and quality inconsistencies that may arise from inadequate ground station support. By prioritizing consumer protection and enforcing accountability, governments can drive a more balanced and inclusive digital environment where high-speed internet is accessible to all, not just to those in major cities.

Through advocacy and strategic partnerships, WAICTANet is committed to advancing digital and financial inclusion for all. The lessons from Starlink’s rollout underscore the importance of collaborative efforts between private sector actors and public institutions to create resilient digital ecosystems that reach every community.

Peterking Quaye, Founder & Executive Director of West Africa ICT Action Network (WAICTANet), applauds the Government of Ghana on its landmark achievement in launching 5G internet services through the NextGen Infraco Consortium (NGIC), a coalition of key partners including Ascend Digital, K-NET, Radisys, Nokia, and Tech Mahindra. As Ghana embarks on this journey to high-speed connectivity, it reinforces the country’s position as a leader in digital transformation within the West African region.

“This 5G rollout signifies more than just faster internet; it marks a commitment to advancing Ghana’s digital economy,” said Peterking Quaye. “However, while we celebrate this advancement, it is essential that we do not leave rural communities behind. True digital inclusion is not achieved until every Ghanaian, regardless of location, has access to the same opportunities the digital world offers.”

The phased deployment of 5G, which begins in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi, promises transformative impacts in urban areas, catalyzing innovations in sectors like healthcare, education, and business. Yet, Quaye emphasizes that “to build a resilient digital future for all, we must bridge the urban-rural connectivity gap and ensure that rural populations have equal access to high-speed internet.”

Reflecting on the outcomes of past Digital Inclusion Roundtable events hosted by WAICTANet, Quaye highlighted the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in achieving total inclusion across Ghana. “Our work has consistently shown that connecting rural areas is not just a technical issue but a socio-economic one,” he noted. “We need inclusive policies and dedicated resources to extend digital access beyond urban centers and empower rural communities to thrive in the digital age.”

Key Recommendations for Inclusive 5G Expansion in Ghana

1. Dedicated Investment in Rural Infrastructure: While NGIC’s infrastructure-sharing model will lower barriers for telecom providers, a dedicated focus on rural areas is critical. “Allocating resources specifically for rural connectivity is essential for leveling the digital playing field in Ghana,” stated Quaye. This would enable people in remote regions to access the same benefits as those in cities.
2. Affordable Access Initiatives: Quaye advocates for subsidized internet costs in rural areas, where economic constraints may hinder accessibility. “Affordable, high-speed internet in rural areas is fundamental for digital equity,” he said. Offering tailored data packages and subsidizing connectivity costs could facilitate broader access.
3. Community-Based Digital Literacy Programs: Beyond infrastructure, digital literacy is a cornerstone of meaningful connectivity. Quaye suggests, “We must ensure that people in rural communities are equipped with the skills to harness the internet’s potential. Collaborative digital literacy initiatives can transform internet access into real economic and social benefits.”
4. Inclusive Policy Design and Implementation: WAICTANet advocates for policies that address the specific needs of rural and underserved communities. According to Quaye, “Effective digital policies should incorporate voices from all parts of the country, ensuring inclusivity in the decision-making process.” By engaging local stakeholders, Ghana can build a digital ecosystem that reflects the aspirations of every Ghanaian.

As the country aims for nationwide 5G coverage by 2026, Quaye underscores that the path to digital inclusion requires intentionality and collaboration across sectors. “This is a pivotal moment in Ghana’s digital journey. This 5G rollout should be a springboard towards a fully connected Ghana, where no community is left behind. WAICTANet is committed to advocating to to make this vision a reality.”

In anticipation of the 2025 Digital Inclusion Roundtable, WAICTANet reaffirms its mission to foster dialogue, drive policy advocacy, and research whilst urging government and private sector mobilization of resources to ensure digital inclusion reaches every corner of Ghana. Through collaboration with government, private sector, and local organizations, WAICTANet aims to advocate for an ecosystem where digital opportunities are accessible for all.

The 2nd edition of the Ghana Digital and Financial Inclusion Roundtable concluded on a powerful note in Accra, Ghana, as experts, stakeholders, and industry leaders gathered to address pressing issues of digital and financial inclusion in the country. Hosted by the West Africa ICT Action Network (WAICTANet), this annual event has quickly become a premier platform for advancing digital inclusion across Ghana and the West African region.

This year’s event focused on the urgent need to close the digital divide, particularly in rural Ghana, where large segments of the population remain unconnected and financially underserved. Statistics reveal that, a significant urban-rural divide exists, with rural communities experiencing limited access to digital and financial services. As of early 2024, Ghana had approximately 24.06 million internet users, achieving a penetration rate of 69.8% of the population. While this statistic is encouraging, it also reveals that around 30.2% of the population remains excluded from internet access. Given Ghana’s population of roughly 34.5 million, this means that approximately 10.4 million Ghanaians still lack internet access. The disparity is even more pronounced in rural areas, where internet awareness and accessibility are significantly lower. A survey showed that while 51.6% of urban residents were aware of the internet, only 27.4% in rural communities had similar awareness. Moreover, mobile phone compatibility further limits access; 67% of mobile phones in rural areas are not internet-compatible, compared to 43% in urban areas. This digital divide underscores the need for targeted interventions by the government and telecom companies to ensure equitable access to digital resources and reduce exclusion, particularly in underserved rural regions.

Peterking Quaye, Executive Director of WAICTANet, emphasized the importance of Ghana’s progress in digital inclusion while calling for intensified efforts to bridge the remaining gaps. “We have seen significant strides in Ghana’s digital landscape, especially with the introduction of mobile money and recent advancements in technology infrastructure. However, we must recognize that millions in rural Ghana are still excluded from these services. It is essential for all stakeholders – government, telecommunication companies, financial institutions, and civil society – to collaborate and develop policies that truly benefit every Ghanaian,” Quaye stated.

The roundtable featured a keynote address from Professor Kester Quist-Aphetsi, a globally recognized cybersecurity and artificial intelligence expert. Professor Quist-Aphetsi issued a call to action to telecommunications companies, urging them to invest more in research and innovation to develop products and services that are better suited to the unique needs of rural Ghana. “Telecommunication companies must take the lead in researching and understanding the diverse needs of rural communities. By developing tailored solutions, we can close the gap of digital exclusion and bring the benefits of the digital economy to every corner of the country,” he asserted.

Professor Quist-Aphetsi pointed out that while Ghana has made progress, there is still much work to be done to address the unique challenges faced by rural and underserved populations. He suggested that telecom companies, through extensive research, could identify barriers that limit rural users from accessing the internet and financial services. He also called on the government to implement policies that promote digital literacy and infrastructure expansion to these areas.

The event underscored the urgent need for Ghana to continue its efforts in bridging the digital divide, aligning with global initiatives such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9, which emphasizes building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation. Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), Internet Society Ghana , E-Governance and Internet Governance Foundation for Africa (EGIGFA),Ghana Cybersecurity Expert Association were partners for this year’s edition.

Quaye also highlighted the growing interest and commitment from stakeholders across West Africa in supporting digital and financial inclusion. “We are witnessing an increasing number of stakeholders willing to contribute to this cause, not only in Ghana but across West Africa. This is promising, as it shows a strong regional movement towards a more inclusive digital future,” he said.

As the event concluded, participants agreed on the importance of ongoing collaboration, policy support, and innovative solutions to make digital and financial inclusion a reality for all Ghanaians. The final report of the roundtable, containing key findings and recommendations, will be published soon, serving as a valuable resource for policymakers and other stakeholders.

The Ghana Digital and Financial Inclusion Roundtable has established itself as a vital platform for driving progress and fostering partnerships in the digital and financial inclusion space. With the continued commitment of all stakeholders, there is hope that digital and financial inclusion will become more accessible to all, bridging the urban-rural divide and ensuring equal access to the opportunities presented by the digital economy.

11-3-2024 : Monrovia, Liberia — Global Encryption Day (GED) 2024 wrapped up successfully in Liberia, marking a significant chapter in the West Africa ICT Action Network’s (WAICTANet) ongoing mission to bolster digital security and privacy across the country. Held at the Orange Digital Center on November 2, this year’s event brought together a diverse audience from academia, policy sectors, tech industries, and a vibrant youth community, all convening under the theme, “Strengthening Digital Security and Privacy in Liberia.”

Since its inception in 2020, GED in Liberia, organized annually by WAICTANet, has served as a critical platform for dialogue, capacity building, and advocacy on encryption and privacy. Each year, attendance and impact have grown, with direct engagement estimated at over 500 participants engaged with public awareness ,and one day training for estimated 30 this year and indirect reach exceeding 2,000 through media and educational institutions.

Reflecting on this theme, Peterking Quaye, Regional Executive Director of WAICTANet, opened the event by stating, “Encryption is not merely a technological measure; it is foundational to protecting our privacy, our security, and our trust in the digital economy. Today, as we celebrate Global Encryption Day, we reaffirm our commitment to these values and to empowering Liberians with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate an increasingly digital world.”

This year’s event featured interactive sessions, expert presentations, and technical training led by seasoned professionals, including Mr. Claudio Thompson, a lead trainer and digital security expert. Thompson’s session focused on the global and local importance of encryption, emphasizing that end-to-end encryption (E2EE) is essential for safeguarding personal and governmental data from unauthorized access. As Thompson noted, “Encryption is the foundation of trust in our digital infrastructure. By empowering citizens to understand and demand it, we are not only securing individuals but also strengthening the very framework of our digital economy.”

Over the years, GED has increasingly influenced national policy discussions in Liberia. Advocacy efforts arising from these events have helped shape Liberia’s National ICT Policy and have contributed input towards the nation’s Cybersecurity Strategy. Both policies now reflect a deeper commitment to robust encryption as a critical component of digital security, largely due to the ongoing efforts of WAICTANet and its partners.

The 2024 GED event also emphasized youth engagement, welcoming university students as part of a broader strategy to embed digital literacy and privacy awareness among younger generations—among the most active and vulnerable users of digital platforms. Their inclusion highlights WAICTANet’s dedication to equipping Liberia’s youth with the necessary tools for navigating digital challenges and opportunities.

Looking to the future, WAICTANet has committed to extending its advocacy and outreach in 2025. Plans are underway to deepen educational outreach, engage policymakers actively, and advocate for encryption to remain a priority in national policy discussions. GED 2024 has set the stage for continued growth, community engagement, and a lasting impact on digital security and privacy in Liberia.

In closing, GED 2024 reinforced the critical role of encryption in Liberia while underscoring the power of community-driven advocacy in shaping a secure digital future. As Quaye remarked in his final address, “Our work in promoting encryption is more than just about technology; it’s about securing Liberia’s digital future for all.”

Position Statement on Starlink’s Impact on Africa’s Internet Landscape
Issued by Peterking Quaye, Regional Executive Director of the West Africa ICT Action Network (WAICTANet)

As Africa moves toward an increasingly interconnected future, the arrival of Starlink is a game-changer for the continent’s digital infrastructure. West Africa ICT Action Network (WAICTANet) applauds the unprecedented strides made by Starlink in revolutionizing internet access and affordability across the region. With regulatory approvals and the deployment of high-speed satellite internet in multiple African nations, Starlink is setting a new benchmark for inclusive and reliable connectivity, bringing hope for significant economic and social progress.

The immense demand for Starlink services, evident in the immediate sell-out of terminals across African capitals, speaks to a continent eager to bridge its digital divide. From Nigeria’s bustling cities to Kenya’s innovation hubs, and now Liberia, where Starlink has been licensed to offer satellite internet services, Starlink is enhancing accessibility and affordability for millions, including remote and underserved communities. The move by the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) to secure a one-year agreement with Starlink highlights a critical step towards achieving universal internet coverage in Liberia, with transformative implications for healthcare, education, and government services.

As Executive Director, Peterking Quaye remarked, “Starlink’s entrance into the MRU region, particularly Liberia, represents a major leap towards closing connectivity gaps that have long hindered our communities. This partnership not only provides a resilient backup to Liberia’s ACE cable but also enables reliable, high-speed internet in areas that have traditionally been out of reach. For WAICTANet, this is an opportunity to support sustainable digital growth through community-driven ICT training and capacity building.”

Starlink’s affordability, especially through its newly introduced budget-friendly plans, is prompting local providers to innovate, a development we welcome as it encourages competitive pricing models across the sector. We urge Starlink to collaborate closely with local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to ensure economic benefits are shared locally, fostering job creation and technological growth in the ICT sector.

At WAICTANet, we envision a future where high-speed internet is not a luxury but a public utility that every African can access. The expansion of Starlink’s services aligns with our commitment to championing accessible, resilient, and inclusive digital infrastructure. We are optimistic that this partnership will serve as a catalyst for inclusive economic opportunities across the MRU region, benefiting countless institutions, businesses, and individuals.

As we continue to advocate for a digitally inclusive Africa, WAICTANet remains committed to monitoring Starlink’s progress alongside government bodies and civil society, ensuring that the technological and economic benefits reach every corner of our region. Together, we are building a foundation for an empowered, interconnected future. As Starlink’s satellite internet service rapidly gains popularity across Africa, its entry signals both significant opportunities and complex challenges for the
region’s digital landscape. While WAICTANet welcomes this milestone in connectivity expansion, we also recognize that achieving a balanced, impactful integration of Starlink into African telecommunications requires critical assessment of its economic, regulatory, and infrastructural implications.

1. Transformative Potential and Digital Inclusion
   The undeniable demand for Starlink, seen in the sellouts in major urban areas and the rapid deployment in remote regions, reflects a major step forward in providing affordable, high-speed internet to African consumers, especially those previously marginalized by limited infrastructure. The provisional licensing agreement in Liberia, for instance, paves the way for bringing high-speed internet to remote and underserved areas, directly supporting Liberia’s ambition for universal internet access. This aligns well with WAICTANet’s goal to foster inclusive digital growth, bringing education, healthcare, and government services into closer reach for millions.
2. Competitive Pressures on Local ISPs
   However, Starlink’s arrival has stirred intense competition, pushing traditional ISPs to reevaluate pricing and service quality. In Kenya, Safaricom’s adjustment of internet packages to match Starlink’s budget-friendly offerings exemplifies the disruptive impact of satellite providers. While this can benefit consumers in the short term, there are longer-term implications to consider. The sustainability of local ISPs is critical; they are integral to the digital economy and employ substantial local workforces. If Starlink’s competitive edge weakens these companies’ foothold, it could lead to job losses and reduced investments in locally driven internet solutions. We recommend strategic partnerships and co-service agreements that allow Starlink to work alongside local ISPs, rather than displace them, creating a collaborative model that benefits the entire sector.
3. Realistic Challenges in Revenue Sharing and Local Economic Impact
   Although Starlink’s services bring high demand, a key question remains: How much revenue is staying within the host countries? Revenue sharing with local authorities and investments in local economies are essential for sustainable growth. Starlink, as a global service provider, should establish revenue-sharing frameworks and infrastructure investment commitments that contribute directly to the national digital economy. This could involve allocating a percentage of revenue toward national digital infrastructure projects, ensuring long-term support for Africa’s tech and internet ecosystem.

In Liberia, for instance, WAICTANet advocates for Starlink to channel part of its revenue back into critical projects such as expanding public internet access points, subsidizing digital literacy initiatives, and upgrading connectivity infrastructure in public institutions, particularly schools, clinics, and government offices. Doing so would support economic resilience while fostering more inclusive access to digital resources.

4. Infrastructure Compatibility and Service Challenges
   Integrating Starlink into Africa’s existing digital infrastructure also brings operational challenges, particularly compatibility with current fiber-optic networks like Liberia’s ACE cable. While Starlink offers a viable backup solution during outages, relying heavily on satellite technology without developing local infrastructure could limit long-term sustainability. A resilient digital ecosystem requires a balance of satellite, fiber-optic, and mobile networks. It’s vital that governments encourage Starlink to work with local stakeholders in building hybrid infrastructure models, thus enhancing service stability and mitigating risks tied to satellite-dependency, such as adverse weather conditions or latency issues that may affect real-time applications like telemedicine and online education.
5. Regulatory Oversight and Consumer Protection
   Starlink’s rapid entry into African markets has not come without regulatory concerns. The appeal to African governments and citizens is clear, yet governments must establish clear frameworks to protect local industries and ensure compliance with national consumer protection standards. The Liberia Telecommunications Authority’s decision to grant a provisional license for a year is a step in the right direction, enabling evaluation of Starlink’s service quality and impact on consumers. WAICTANet encourages African governments to adopt similar approaches and implement measures to ensure Starlink and other international providers adhere to data protection laws, transparent billing practices, and reliable service commitments.
6. Enhancing Digital Skills and Economic Opportunities
   The widespread availability of affordable high-speed internet opens new economic avenues, from online work opportunities to e-commerce expansion. However, without concurrent investments in digital skills training, the region risks missing the full potential of this connectivity. We encourage Starlink and other tech entities operating in Africa to invest in capacity-building initiatives that empower local communities to thrive in a digital economy. For instance, Starlink could collaborate with NGOs, including WAICTANet, to establish digital literacy programs that equip youth and underserved populations with essential online skills, fostering an inclusive digital workforce.

To conclude Starlink’s expansion in Africa represents a new chapter in the continent’s digital journey, offering opportunities for unprecedented connectivity. But to ensure a balanced and sustainable digital future, collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders—governments, local ISPs, Starlink, and civil society—are essential. WAICTANet believes that with a shared approach, this transformation can lead to greater digital inclusion, economic growth, and resilience across Africa.

As WAICTANet continues to advocate for equitable digital access, we call upon Starlink to consider these critical issues and join hands in creating a robust, collaborative framework that propels Africa’s digital aspirations forward. Together, we can lay the groundwork for a digitally inclusive and economically
empowered future for all Africans.

Accra, Ghana — November 2023 – Building on the resounding success of its 2023 debut, the West Africa ICT Action Network (WAICTANet) is thrilled to announce the 2nd Edition of the Ghana Digital and Financial Inclusion Roundtable, slated for August 2024. This year’s gathering promises to elevate the dialogue by bringing together fresh perspectives through new partnerships, a more comprehensive agenda, and a sharpened focus on bridging Ghana’s digital divide. With a diverse line-up of distinguished speakers, panelists, and stakeholders, the event is set to create actionable pathways toward a digitally inclusive Ghana.
The inaugural edition, held in 2023, served as a critical platform that brought together leaders from government, the private sector, civil society, and academia. Through meaningful discussions, the event highlighted both the opportunities and challenges around digital and financial inclusion in Ghana. As technology continues to shape the country’s socio-economic landscape, ensuring that every Ghanaian, particularly those in marginalized and underserved communities, can access and benefit from digital and financial services remains a key priority.
Reflecting on the impact of the first edition, Peterking Quaye, Executive Director of WAICTANet, noted, “The Ghana Digital and Financial Inclusion Roundtable has emerged as an essential forum for fostering collaborative efforts toward digital access for all. Last year’s discussions laid down a foundational roadmap, turning conversations into actionable initiatives and policy frameworks. It was inspiring to see the commitment from various stakeholders who share our vision of making digital and financial resources accessible for every Ghanaian.”
Despite significant progress, Ghana continues to face substantial hurdles in achieving universal digital and financial inclusion. While mobile connectivity has become more widespread, with approximately 53% of Ghanaians owning mobile devices, access to internet services remains limited in rural areas. This disparity not only restricts access to essential financial services but also limits social and economic empowerment in underserved communities.
Recent statistics from the National Communications Authority indicate that internet penetration in rural Ghana is as low as 20% in some regions, exposing a critical need for infrastructure and policy intervention. The lack of digital skills, limited affordability, and exclusion of women, youth, and rural populations further exacerbate the digital divide. “We’re facing an urgent need for a truly inclusive digital ecosystem,” emphasized Quaye. “Digital access is about more than just connectivity; it’s about enabling equitable participation in society and economy. This event is a rallying call for stakeholders to close the gap and ensure no one is left behind.”
This year’s discussions will be anchored in data-driven insights, highlighting the current landscape of digital and financial exclusion in Ghana. Recent research reveals that over 30% of Ghana’s rural population remains unbanked, with only 18% having access to online financial services, according to data from the Ghana Statistical Service. Such statistics underscore the importance of creating scalable, long-term solutions to integrate these communities into the digital economy. The event will also delve into policy suggestions to facilitate digital growth in Ghana’s underrepresented areas. Discussions will focus on sustainable models for expanding internet infrastructure, strategies to make digital access more affordable, and ways to build a financially inclusive ecosystem.
The 2024 Roundtable will bring together an esteemed group of thought leaders, policymakers, and innovators who are at the forefront of the digital inclusion movement. These distinguished voices will provide invaluable insights into best practices, emerging trends, and collaborative opportunities for advancing Ghana’s digital and financial access. With such an experienced and diverse panel, the roundtable will offer an unparalleled opportunity for participants to explore and address Ghana’s most pressing digital inclusion challenges.
The 2nd Edition of the Ghana Digital and Financial Inclusion Roundtable is poised to be a landmark event in advancing Ghana’s digital inclusion agenda. Through these rich and varied discussions, WAICTANet seeks to create a ripple effect that will lead to real change, propelling socio-economic growth, digital literacy, and financial empowerment for all Ghanaians. “This year, we’re taking the conversation to a new level with a focus on action and implementation,” Quaye concluded. “The 2024 event isn’t just a forum to discuss barriers. It’s a platform for developing and committing to solutions that will drive a digitally inclusive future for Ghana.”
WAICTANet is also excited to announce collaborations with a range of new partners for the 2024 event. These include influential stakeholders from government bodies, telecommunications firms, financial institutions, and innovation hubs, both local and international. By bringing together resources and expertise from diverse sectors, these partnerships aim to foster a cohesive approach to advancing digital inclusion across the nation. The agenda for this year’s roundtable is designed to be more expansive, focusing on practical, ground-level solutions that address Ghana’s unique digital inclusion challenges.

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As we mark this year’s International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, it is crucial to remember that poverty is not just about lacking money—it is about a denial of rights, dignity, and opportunities. This year’s theme, “Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment: Acting Together for Just, Peaceful, and Inclusive Societies,” draws attention to a critical issue: the hidden dimensions of poverty, where individuals are marginalized not only economically but also through social and institutional maltreatment. These injustices trap people in a cycle of exclusion.

At WAICTANet, we firmly believe that technology can play a transformative role in breaking this cycle. In the Mano River Union (MRU) region, where millions still face hardship, digital innovation provides a pathway to inclusion, especially for our youth. Technology offers them a chance to develop vital skills, access opportunities, and build sustainable livelihoods. This is why we are committed to ensuring that young people across the MRU region gain the digital knowledge and skills necessary to thrive.

As Regional Director, I have personally seen the impact that ICT can have. From rural communities to underserved urban areas, young people are harnessing the power of technology to access education, find employment, and create new opportunities for themselves and their families. These stories are inspiring, but they are not enough. We must scale up these efforts if we are to make a meaningful impact.

WAICTANet is ready to work with governments, international organizations, and private sector partners to remove the barriers that prevent wider access to ICT. Whether through improving infrastructure, ensuring affordable connectivity, or expanding digital literacy programs, we must work together to close the digital divide. Special attention must be given to marginalized groups, particularly women and rural youth, who too often are left behind.

Let us be clear: investing in our youth is not just a responsibility, but an opportunity. By equipping them with the tools to succeed, we are planting the seeds for a more just, peaceful, and inclusive society. This is not just a goal—it is a necessity if we are to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 16) and create societies where every person can live with dignity.

In closing, WAICTANet reaffirms its commitment to fighting poverty through ICT and empowering young people to be the drivers of change. But we cannot do this alone. We call on all partners and stakeholders to join us in this mission. Together, we can ensure that no young person is left behind and that technology becomes a force for good, driving us towards a future free from poverty and exclusion.

As we commemorate the International Day of Rural Women, we at the West Africa ICT Action Network (WAICTANet) recognize the indispensable contributions of rural women as custodians of food security, biodiversity, and community health. This year’s theme, “Empowering Rural Women for a Sustainable Future,” resonates deeply with our mission to uplift rural women across West Africa by equipping them with the digital and financial tools they need to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world.

Rural women, who make up 22% of the global population, are the backbone of their communities, ensuring food production, care, and natural resource management. Yet, they face immense challenges, from poverty to limited access to essential services, education, and economic opportunities. The digital divide further widens these disparities. At WAICTANet, we believe that bridging this divide is crucial to achieving true gender equality and sustainable development.

Our organization is committed to aligning its efforts with the urgent need to empower rural women through ICT and digital literacy. We have seen first-hand the transformative power of these skills in helping women not only generate income but also take control of their futures. By offering training in ICT, digital entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, we are enabling rural women to connect to wider markets, access financial services, and participate in the digital economy.

Peterking Quaye, our Regional Director, emphasizes, “Empowering rural women with digital and financial skills is not just a moral imperative—it is a necessary step towards achieving sustainable development in our sub-region. We need to ensure that no woman is left behind as the world transitions to a more digitally driven future.”

In collaboration with local and international partners, WAICTANet remains steadfast in driving impactful projects that elevate rural women, offering training and resources to enhance their socio-economic prospects. From digital skills workshops to initiatives supporting financial inclusion, we are helping to build climate resilience, conserve biodiversity, and foster economic independence among the women we serve.

As we look to the future, we call on donors, partners, and stakeholders to join us in expanding these efforts. Together, we can harness the power of technology to transform the lives of rural women, creating a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

On this International Day of Rural Women, let us celebrate their strength, resilience, and invaluable role in building stronger, more sustainable communities.