(Ecofin Agency) - The Digital Inclusion Acceleration Program will be implemented in several phases over eight years. Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Malawi, countries where broadband access remains below 50%, are involved in the first phase.

The World Bank has announced a significant investment of $2.48 billion to boost digital inclusion for 180 million people across East and Southern Africa by 2032. The Inclusive Digitalization initiative in Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) was unveiled on June 27. It will be executed in multiple phases over eight years.

The first phase will focus on Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Malawi—countries where broadband access is below 50%. This initial effort aims to provide over 50 million people with access to high-performance broadband connections.

Future phases will involve other countries and regional organizations based on their eligibility and readiness. The International Development Association (IDA) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)- both part of the World Bank Group- will fund the IDEA program. Let’s note that the program is structured around three main pillars: expanding broadband access and securing data hosting to ensure quality, reliable, and affordable internet for the population; deploying interoperable public infrastructure and digital safeguards to promote the safe and reliable use of digital technologies and services; and developing digital applications, services, and skills to drive productive use of digital technologies with significant economic and social impacts.

As of 2023, only 64% of the population in East and Southern Africa had broadband access, and 24% were internet users, according to World Bank data.