The World Bank has just kicked off a massive $2.48 billion program to level up internet access and digital infrastructure for over 180 million people in eastern and southern Africa.
The Inclusive Digitalization in Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) Program aims to tackle big digital hurdles like poor internet coverage due to weak infrastructure, high data and device costs, limited digital skills, and the lack of digital IDs for online transactions.
Funded by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA), the IDEA Program is all about bringing 15 countries and regional economic communities together to solve these issues. “The IDEA program shows the World Bank’s commitment to digitization,” said Tim Kelly, the World Bank’s lead ICT policy specialist.
By 2032, this initiative hopes to enhance internet access and digital service use for over 180 million people, driving sustainable economic growth. The program will roll out in phases over eight years, starting with Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Malawi. More countries and regional bodies will join in future phases based on their readiness. The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) will lead the regional coordination of the IDEA Program.
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