How to make digital transformation inclusive, responsible and sustainable (United Kingdom)
6 Dec 2023 09:00h - 10:00h UTC
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Samantha O’Riordan
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) have formed a partnership since 2021, working together to support governments in five countries. The partnership aims to assist these governments in various aspects of digital development, such as digital regulation, sustainable models, creating conducive environments, and advancing digital skills. This collaboration is in line with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
One of the notable achievements of this partnership has been in Brazil, where ITU has joined forces with the Brazilian National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) to support connectivity initiatives. Through their collaborative efforts, they have developed a new school connectivity strategy for the country. The partnership conducted a comprehensive mapping of existing infrastructure to gain a deep understanding of the ground situation and identify the most effective means to provide connectivity. The recommendations derived from this mapping exercise were then integrated into the new strategy, which was launched in September.
The partnership’s support is not limited to Brazil alone. It also operates in other countries, including Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Indonesia. However, the nature and extent of the support provided vary based on the specific conditions and needs of each country. This demonstrates the flexibility of the partnership to adapt to local contexts and deliver tailored solutions.
In terms of activities, one of the key aspects highlighted in the supporting facts is the provision of training. The partnership has delivered training in each country, with support from experts. The primary focus of this training is to enhance the capabilities and knowledge of regulatory bodies. This underscores the importance of building the capacity of regulators to effectively oversee and govern digital technologies within their respective countries.
To further promote digital skills, the partnership emphasises collaboration with government-run programmes and ITU Academy Centres of Excellence. By leveraging existing programmes and expertise, the partnership can extend its reach and impact. Particularly, the focus is on reaching rural areas, schools, parents, community members, and young people. This highlights the broad scope of the partnership’s efforts in ensuring equitable access to digital skills training and driving socio-economic development.
Additionally, the partnership also recognises the importance of basic computer skills and their application in job opportunities. Training programmes range from basic computer usage to teaching individuals how to utilise technology for job applications. This comprehensive approach caters to a wide range of needs and promotes both education and economic growth, aligning with SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 8: Decent work and Economic Growth.
Overall, the partnership between ITU and FCDO has yielded positive results and has shown its potential to make a significant impact. The success story in Brazil serves as evidence of the partnership’s effectiveness in influencing policy and strategies. The partnership’s efforts in supporting digital regulation, sustainable models, conducive environments, and digital skills have contributed to the advancement of digital development in multiple countries. With its collaborative and adaptable approach, the partnership is well-positioned to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and advocate for its continuation.
Mariya Hussain
The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process, which first took place in 2003 with phases in Geneva and Tunis, is set to be renegotiated in 2025. The WSIS process aims to bring together world leaders in an effort to create digitally inclusive societies. In 2015, the WSIS plus 10 reaffirmed its commitment to the Tunis Agenda and extended the mandate of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF).
The IGF plays a crucial role in global digital policy discussions. It provides a platform for different stakeholders to share their perspectives equally. Additionally, the IGF has been instrumental in fostering regional networks and grassroots work. The mandate of the IGF will be reconsidered in 2025, highlighting the importance of its role in shaping global digital policies.
WSIS+2025 is considered a significant milestone for future digital connectivity and technologies. It aims to align with the wider global agenda, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This initiative seeks to respond to the evolving needs of the future Internet and build meaningful digital access. By connecting to the UN 2030 Agenda, WSIS+2025 aims to contribute to achieving the SDGs.
WSIS and its subsequent process, WSIS+2025, are key contributors to global efforts towards building digitally connected societies. The initial WSIS summit brought together world leaders to converge towards creating digitally inclusive societies. WSIS+2025 aims to further connect with the wider global agenda, including the SDGs, and its outcomes directly impact the governance and future of the Internet.
In conclusion, in 2025, the WSIS process will be renegotiated, and the IGF’s role in global digital policy discussions will be reconsidered. WSIS+2025 will focus on responding to the future Internet, aligning with the UN 2030 Agenda, and building meaningful digital access. These initiatives play a vital role in building digitally connected societies and contribute to global efforts for inclusive digital development.
Osondu Nwokoro
The analysis reveals numerous challenges associated with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in rural areas. The main issue is that out of the 700 licensed ISPs, only 100 are operational, highlighting systemic problems that hinder their viability. The argument made is that these ISPs, which are meant to provide last-mile connectivity, are not sustainable due to various issues.
Furthermore, the analysis argues that running profit-driven ISPs in rural areas is not feasible. The commercial model does not work well in these areas, resulting in a lack of available services. This poses a significant problem as access to the internet is crucial for economic development and social connectivity.
However, there is an alternative proposed business model that focuses on sustainability and community support. This model emphasizes providing services that are relevant to the community and involves absolute buying of stakeholders. One approach to achieve sustainability is by using local volunteers as staff and sourcing local materials for infrastructure, effectively cutting costs. This strategy is seen as innovative and adaptable, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Notably, when the proposed business model was presented in a storytelling format, it received a positive reception. This indicates that effective communication and engagement methods can play a vital role in promoting and implementing innovative solutions.
In conclusion, the analysis highlights the challenges faced by ISPs in rural areas and the need for innovative and locally adapted solutions. The current systemic issues hinder the viability of ISPs, and profit-driven models are not suitable for rural areas. However, the proposed business model that focuses on sustainability through community support and volunteerism offers a promising solution. Effective communication strategies, like storytelling, can also enhance the acceptance and implementation of these solutions.
Charles Juma
The analysis reveals several areas of support provided to Kenya in promoting digital inclusion and fostering the growth of local digital ecosystems. One key area of focus is dynamic spectrum access, where efforts have been made since 2018 to understand the country’s context and support initiatives for digital inclusion. Collaborative efforts with the communications authority of Kenya, ICT authority, and Ministry of ICT have been undertaken to achieve this goal.
Furthermore, reforms related to TV white space technology for rural connectivity have been advocated for, demonstrating the commitment to bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas. This approach can help extend internet access to underserved communities, fostering socio-economic development.
The analysis also highlights the importance of digital accessibility for all, with a specific focus on persons with disabilities (PWDs). It emphasises the need to ensure that PWDs have equal access to digital technologies, services, and platforms. While no specific initiatives or supporting evidence are mentioned, this commitment aligns with SDG 10, which aims to reduce inequalities and leave no one behind.
Additionally, the analysis mentions support for Kenya’s National Digital Transformation Agenda. Although no supporting evidence or specific actions are provided, this indicates a commitment to aligning efforts with the country’s broader digital transformation goals. The National Digital Transformation Agenda aims to leverage technology to drive innovation, improve infrastructure, and advance industry in Kenya.
Lastly, the analysis highlights the support for innovative use and implementation of the Universal Service Fund. This fund plays a vital role in expanding access to communication services, particularly in remote and underserved areas. By encouraging innovative approaches in utilizing the fund, the aim is to maximize its impact and ensure that it effectively addresses the connectivity challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Overall, the analysis showcases a positive sentiment in supporting Kenya’s digital inclusion initiatives, local digital ecosystem growth, digital accessibility for all (including PWDs), the National Digital Transformation Agenda, and the innovative use of the Universal Service Fund. While no specific evidence or outcomes are provided, the commitment to these areas underscores the importance of leveraging technology to bridge the digital divide and foster inclusive and sustainable development in Kenya.
Speaker 1
The UK’s approach to digital development is commendable as it is technology-neutral, meaning that it does not limit itself to a single technology. Instead, the UK promotes techniques that are proven to be effective in each context. This approach is evident in their support for community networks in South Africa and Kenya, which have been successful in improving connectivity in these areas.
To ensure digital inclusion, the UK emphasizes the importance of connecting digital development evidence with policymakers and regulators. By doing so, they aim to reinforce the importance of digital inclusion and ensure that policies and regulations are aligned with this goal. This approach highlights their commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal access to digital technologies for all.
While the UK’s approach to digital development is positive overall, there are still some areas of concern. Questions have been raised regarding digital literacy, AI budget allocation, and provisions for people with mental health problems in the context of digital transformation. These issues highlight the need for careful consideration and planning to address potential inequalities and challenges that may arise from the increasing integration of digital technologies.
In conclusion, the UK’s technology-neutral approach to digital development, along with their emphasis on connecting evidence with policymakers and regulators, demonstrates their commitment to promoting digital inclusion and bridging the digital divide. However, it is important to address the issues related to digital literacy, AI budget allocation, and provisions for individuals with mental health problems in order to ensure that digital transformation benefits everyone, regardless of their digital literacy, mental health status, or access to resources.
Alessandra Lustrati
The UK government actively supports digital development in partner countries to achieve inclusive, responsible, and sustainable digital transformation. The UK Digital Access Program operates in Brazil, Indonesia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, promoting digital inclusivity through access to technology and skills. The partnership between the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) focuses on regulation, sustainable models, and digital skills advancement in countries like Brazil, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Indonesia. In Kenya, the FCDO works on communication system reforms to enhance digital inclusion, collaborating with the Communications Authority of Kenya and the Ministry of ICT. These efforts extend to digitizing public services for people with disabilities through initiatives like self-registration systems. The UK government advocates for context-specific digital solutions to cater to each country’s unique needs and promotes community networks, like Tuna Panda in Kenya and Zenzelene in South Africa, to provide affordable and sustainable connectivity. Collaborations with local partners, such as the Africa Center for Women in ICT in Kenya, further strengthen digital skills and literacy programs. The government has also launched an AI for development program, emphasizing responsible AI use. Digital inclusion is recognized as supportive of mental health initiatives, providing broader access to resources and support. The UK government is open to innovative forms of finance for development, including exploring the concept of connecting infrastructure using Sovereign Wealth Funds. In summary, the UK government’s commitment to digital development in partner countries focuses on inclusivity, sustainability, and responsible use of technology, forming partnerships and implementing tailored solutions.
Idongesit Udoh
The Digital Access Programme (DAP) in Nigeria is focused on addressing the unique challenges of the country’s digital landscape. The programme collaborates with local communities, government institutions, and the private sector, including partnerships with the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy and other regulatory bodies.
DAP has contributed to regulatory reforms, removing barriers that affect connectivity or broadband rollout in Nigeria. This includes working with half of the state governments to champion reforms, and developing a national broadband plan that has increased broadband expansion from 32% to 46%.
In terms of inclusion, DAP supports digital skills training for left-out communities, women, girls, and people with disabilities. Over 80,000 women have been empowered through the CyberSafe Foundation to participate in the digital economy, which includes workplace training and internship placement.
DAP also advocates for collaboration and testing innovative models to drive digital transformation. This includes working with operators, ISPs, and MNOs to test models around community networks and last-mile connectivity, with a focus on making digital transformation more inclusive and responsible.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, DAP utilized digital means for mental health support, providing services through telephones and other digital platforms. This has been successful in reaching communities and receiving positive feedback.
The African Union’s 10-year strategy for inclusive digital transformation is seen as a valuable framework by DAP. The programme aligns with this strategy, aiming to strengthen national systems and improve the enabling environment for digital transformation.
Overall, DAP in Nigeria is committed to addressing digital challenges, promoting regulatory reforms, inclusion, and innovative models. It has made significant contributions to broadband expansion, empowering marginalized communities, and utilizing digital tools for mental health support. The programme supports the African Union’s strategy for inclusive digital transformation.
Harun Hassan
The analysis reveals that the current administration in Kenya has prioritised the digitisation of public services, with a particular focus on improving the registration system for persons with disabilities. This prioritisation is in line with the goals of reducing inequalities and fostering innovation and infrastructure, as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 10 and 9, respectively.
One notable achievement in digitisation is the digitisation of the registration system by the National Council for Persons with Disabilities in Kenya. This move has made the registration process more efficient and accessible for individuals with disabilities. Moreover, the introduction of self-registration in rural areas specifically targeting people with disabilities is a significant step towards collecting valuable socio-economic data. This data is essential for planning programs and interventions to meet the needs of disabled individuals. It addresses the lack of adequate socio-economic data on disabled people in Kenya, which had previously hindered effective policy making and resource allocation.
Additionally, the analysis highlights the positive impact of digitisation efforts on various key services. Digitising education, application processes for support services, and scholarship programs has greatly enhanced accessibility and convenience for people with disabilities. By eliminating the need for individuals to physically travel to access these services, digitisation provides an inclusive and barrier-free way of availing themselves of necessary support. This is of particular importance for individuals who face challenges in using public transport or dealing with poor infrastructure.
Furthermore, the analysis suggests that digitising public services must be accompanied by improvements in infrastructure to ensure internet connectivity across different regions of the country. The current statistics indicate that a significant portion of the Kenyan population, approximately 75% to 80%, has access to electricity, which provides the foundation for internet connectivity. Establishing reliable internet connectivity is crucial for ensuring that digitised public services can be accessed by all, including individuals with disabilities. This aligns with the focus areas of SDGs 9 and 10, which emphasise the need for industry, innovation, infrastructure, and reducing inequalities.
In conclusion, the analysis highlights technology as a powerful ally for persons with disabilities in Kenya. It underscores the importance of digitisation in bringing public services closer to them, making them more accessible and convenient. By implementing self-registration in rural areas, the collection of socio-economic data on disabled individuals can be improved, leading to better planning and targeted interventions. The study also emphasises the need for infrastructure development to support digitisation efforts and ensure wide-ranging internet accessibility. With the collaboration of technological advancements and infrastructure enhancements, the digitisation of public services can significantly contribute to reducing inequalities and promoting inclusivity for people with disabilities in Kenya.
Speakers
AL
Alessandra Lustrati
Speech speed
174 words per minute
Speech length
4776 words
Speech time
1650 secs
CJ
Charles Juma
Speech speed
162 words per minute
Speech length
102 words
Speech time
38 secs
HH
Harun Hassan
Speech speed
180 words per minute
Speech length
757 words
Speech time
252 secs
IU
Idongesit Udoh
Speech speed
163 words per minute
Speech length
888 words
Speech time
327 secs
MH
Mariya Hussain
Speech speed
164 words per minute
Speech length
986 words
Speech time
361 secs
ON
Osondu Nwokoro
Speech speed
160 words per minute
Speech length
1075 words
Speech time
402 secs
SO
Samantha O’Riordan
Speech speed
136 words per minute
Speech length
755 words
Speech time
333 secs
S1
Speaker 1
Speech speed
140 words per minute
Speech length
465 words
Speech time
200 secs
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