(Ecofin Agency) - The African Telecommunications Union, in collaboration with the Swedish technology company Ericsson, has validated last March 5 a set of recommendations that will help African countries accelerate broadband connectivity, including 5G, across their territories.

Approved by twenty-five countries and representatives of regional economic blocs in Africa, these tools will guide the beneficiaries in the rational and efficient management of the telecom spectrum, which is the key element for the development of broadband.

“Radio spectrum is a natural, scarce, and valuable resource that is currently being used for a wide range of applications, providing many economic and social benefits in the continent. As demand for spectrum continues to grow, regulators must work to meet the pressure that comes with managing the use of spectrum resources,” said John Omo, ATU Secretary-General.

The ATU and Ericsson's recommendations to develop broadband in Africa are the result of the collaboration signed between the two parties on June 15, 2020, the aim of which is to connect, innovate and transform the continent into a knowledge economy.

ATU is confident that strict implementation of its recommendations will contribute to a revival of investment in the telecom sector and accelerate the digital transformation of the continent, bringing multiple socio-economic benefits.

Muriel Edjo