The World Bank has revealed that improved access to internet coverage in Nigeria and Tanzania has led to a seven percent reduction in extreme poverty over the course of three years. This information was shared in a recent report titled “Digital transformation drives development in Africa”, highlighting the significant impact of internet access on poverty levels and employment rates.
The report emphasized that in addition to the poverty reduction, exposure to internet access has also contributed to an eight percent increase in labor force participation and wage employment. According to the World Bank, the expansion of internet coverage has played a crucial role in driving development and economic growth in these African countries.
Andrew Dabalen, the World Bank Chief Economist for Africa, underscored the potential of mobile internet usage in driving inclusive growth across the continent. He stated that closing the uptake gap would enhance job creation and promote economic recovery in a rapidly digitalized world.
The report also highlighted the significant increase in internet users in sub-Saharan Africa over the past five years, reaching a remarkable 115 percent. Despite this growth, the region still lags behind in digital infrastructure coverage, access, and quality compared to other regions.
Furthermore, the development is timely as the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy in Nigeria, Bosun Tijani, announced plans to further advance internet gains in the country with a projected $2 billion fund. Additionally, industry statistics from the Nigerian Communications Commission indicate strong broadband penetration in the country, with a 45.57 percent rate and a target of achieving 70 percent in the next two years, as per the National Broadband 2020-2030.
The report reaffirms the transformative impact of internet access on poverty reduction and economic development, emphasizing the need for broader coverage and increased usage to leverage these benefits effectively.
