How to improve digital inclusion with the power of mobile connectivity

How to improve digital inclusion with the power of mobile connectivity

Of the 3.8 billion people around the world who remain unconnected to mobile internet, 88% live in an area already covered by mobile broadband but do not use mobile internet services. Those who are unconnected are more likely to be poorer, less educated, older, rural and women.

Large public-private initiatives, which are based on an understanding of the local context, needs and barriers of the unconnected, are the best way to tackle the usage gap.

Whole-of-government approaches are necessary to address the complex barriers of affordability, literacy and digital skills, safety and security, relevance and accessibility.



The last two years have altered the world, and the lens through which we view it, utterly. And through all the change, mobile connectivity provided a steadying hand, for families, businesses and whole economies.



An era of meaningful connectivity

Today, more people are connected and more industries are interconnected through mobile, as we have moved from an era of simple connectivity to one of meaningful connectivity. Mobile network data traffic grew by 42% between Q3 2020 and Q3 2021 and, as we emerge from the pandemic, digitization is being fast tracked across all sectors.

Meaningful connectivity implies shared human progress – a