MWC Barcelona is undoubtedly one of the most significant annual events in the mobile industry, drawing in companies and innovators from around the globe. Invictus attended MWC to support clients and stay attuned to the latest developments across telco, tech, media, and broadcast news.
In my view, it’s crucial that government-supported stands and country pavilions from Africa have a presence at MWC Barcelona. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case this year, with only a few African startups and the Tunisia Export pavilion represented. Despite local governments’ efforts to boost their ICT industries, tangible support to elevate these companies on the global stage remains limited. With investments in African ICT startups reaching 3 billion in 2022, there is a pressing need to assist more companies in showcasing their innovations at Barcelona and other key industry events.
While this progress is gradual, international companies are keen to tap into the continent’s vast potential, bringing new technologies and innovative solutions to meet the needs of the local communications industry. Africa’s digital transformation is accelerating, bridging the digital divide and advancing technological infrastructure, yet there is still a long way to go. Many regions still lack the infrastructure to support widespread internet access, and even where digital infrastructure exists, the costs can be prohibitively high for many African users.
Organizations like the GSMA and Smart Africa are taking strides to close this connectivity gap, facilitating better collaboration across the continent’s digital ecosystem. Continued cooperation and innovation will be crucial to sustain this momentum and fully realize Africa’s digital future. Governments, regulators, and the private sector must coordinate efforts to close the digital divide while addressing affordability and access to devices, promoting competition, investing in infrastructure, and developing new technologies and business models.
This drive toward connectivity aims to bridge the usage gap, as Africa has an estimated 864 million unconnected people—more than the population of Europe. Reaching these individuals with affordable solutions is essential.
Collaborative partnerships play a crucial role in delivering effective digital services across Africa. Complex challenges like low internet penetration, inadequate infrastructure, and limited digital literacy demand coordinated responses from significant sectors. For example, the Africa CDC and the GSMA signed an agreement at MWC Barcelona to leverage digital technology to benefit the continent.
Invictus observed that flexibility is crucial for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) looking to operate in the African market, where regulations, cultural differences, and customer preferences vary widely. MVNOs must be agile, quickly tailoring services to meet local regulations and customer needs.
In addition to connectivity, telcos in Africa have an opportunity to expand beyond their traditional services. Offering value-added services, like mobile banking and health solutions, can improve their customers’ quality of life and generate new revenue streams while addressing the usage gap.
Digital transformation is shifting toward creating new revenue opportunities beyond internal efficiency, with digital technology poised to bring new digital services to the people of Africa.
In summary, the African telecommunications industry faces many challenges, from the digital divide and device affordability to regulatory hurdles. Addressing these challenges will require adopting innovative technologies, flexible business models, and fostering strong partnerships. Collaboration among industry players is essential to meet the needs of the African market.
With MWC Barcelona now behind us, I look forward to the next Transform Africa Summit, organized by Smart Africa, and the upcoming MWC Kigali. These events provide critical platforms to stay updated on trends, connect with professionals, and explore new growth opportunities for Invictus and our clients.
