Collaboration is key to reliable digital connectivity

Reliable digital services are no longer a luxury; they should be standard practice for all businesses. Improving connectivity, however, necessitates collaboration between governments, citizens, utilities and the private sector. The Covid-19 pandemic, which highlighted any digital disparities and their consequences, is a perfect example of this.

In the midst of the pandemic, businesses with reliable connectivity infrastructure were better able to adjust to remote working and the new normal. In times of lockdown, digital access is also a necessity for education and other online activity. Online classes and business meetings are unavailable to anyone without a stable internet connection or other digital services.

Collaboration is essential for digital connectivity

Despite the fact that extensive digital connectivity may be costly and require large teams to collaborate, the benefits vastly outweigh the downsides. Fibre optic cables, telecom equipment, data centres and landing stations can be costly to set up, both in terms of the physical infrastructure and the labour and machinery required.

The cost of implementation can be significant, which is why governments and businesses must work together to find a method to make these processes easier and more affordable. Private internet service providers (ISPs) seek to increase their customer bases, but this is dependent on the fibre network operators (FNOs) that own the infrastructure. Since a government-funded solution would be limited by finite tax reserves, a hybrid approach is the best option.

This requires first establishing a harmonious ecosystem of willing and united stakeholders, which is not always straightforward in certain countries. Some governments have developed "dig once" policies, in which all parties involved coordinate to ensure that the connectivity infrastructure is built up efficiently and at the lowest possible cost. Dig-once policies are estimated to save up to 33% of overall costs.

This will help to accelerate the deployment and installation of digital connectivity infrastructure. This, however, necessitates complete coordination and participation between all parties involved. Coordination between the private sector and governments, as witnessed in many countries throughout the world, can be difficult. Some businesses are afraid to share their infrastructure with competitors.

Digital connectivity is an essential responsibility of all city leaders

When it comes to connectivity infrastructure, it is vital for local governments and municipalities to establish their objectives. Roles and responsibilities will be assigned to various individuals and organisations as a result of this. It will also aid in the development and financing of connectivity initiatives.

Even though each city's requirements and obstacles may vary, there are numerous instances of successful rollout strategies throughout Africa and the rest of the world. Cities should compile reports and case studies as they embark on their digital connectivity journeys to contribute to a cycle of learning that assists other communities around the world.

Closing the digital divide can be difficult, but it is not impossible. Governments and businesses who want to enhance their connectivity must partner with the right digital partner that can provide comprehensive and reliable solutions. For more information or to get a quote for our various connectivity services, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM owns Africa’s largest network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including fibre optic networks and subsea cables. We offer a wide range of industry-leading scalable ICT solutions for large companies that operate throughout the region.

SEACOM is privately owned - making it adaptable to the needs of the client. We are the preferred ICT and internet connectivity supplier for African enterprises. We can guarantee fast, reliable and secure internet and networking services at affordable prices.

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