Enhancing digital connectivity, promoting broadband access, and developing regional networks to support economic growth, improve communication, and facilitate information exchange across Africa
The PIDA Information and Communication Technology sector is Africa’s comprehensive plan to build digital highways connecting the entire continent. Just like physical roads help people and goods move, these digital roads help information, ideas, and opportunities flow between countries and communities, fostering economic growth and social development.
PIDA envisions an Africa where every citizen has access to affordable, reliable internet and communication services. The ICT vision aims to develop efficient, reliable, cost-effective and environmentally friendly infrastructure for the physical integration of the continent and enhance access to modern digital services for the majority of the African population.
PIDA’s ICT sector projects require significant investment to achieve continental connectivity:
PIDA's ICT initiatives are revolutionizing Africa’s digital landscape by connecting 17 countries with high-speed optical fiber, establishing robust digital infrastructures, and fostering an inclusive digital economy. These projects not only bridge the digital divide but also spur innovation, improve governance, and empower communities across the continent.
150% of target achieved
High-speed optical links
Improved local traffic exchange
Enhanced digital security
PAP1 and PAP2 have rapidly advanced ICT projects across Africa. Many initiatives—from expanding fiber-optic networks to upgrading Internet Exchange Points—are already operational or under construction. These projects are strategically designed to connect urban centers with remote regions, ensuring that digital opportunities reach every corner of the continent. Continuous monitoring and collaboration among national governments, regional bodies, and private partners are key to maintaining this momentum.
The ICT investments under PIDA are financed through an innovative mix of public–private partnerships, multilateral loans, and private equity. This blended approach minimizes financial risk and maximizes the impact of each dollar invested. By leveraging shared resources and regional development funds, PIDA ensures that ICT projects are not only cost-effective but also sustainable, paving the way for long-term digital growth.
$10.4 Billion
$12.8 Billion (Projected 2021-2030)
Several flagship projects illustrate the impact of PIDA’s ICT strategy:
ICT projects under PIDA have generated tangible benefits. In Central Africa, new fiber-optic links have enabled remote regions to access global internet services, driving economic growth and social inclusion. In East Africa, enhanced digital connectivity has supported e-governance, digital banking, and public service delivery improvements. The expansion of IXPs has also spurred local content development and innovation, further strengthening the continent’s digital ecosystem.
While significant progress has been made, the ICT sector faces several challenges. Regulatory hurdles, financing constraints, and a shortage of skilled personnel can slow down project implementation. However, these challenges present opportunities for policy reform, innovation, and capacity building. By embracing emerging technologies such as 5G, AI, and satellite broadband, PIDA is well-positioned to overcome obstacles and accelerate Africa’s digital transformation.
The vision for Africa’s ICT future is ambitious. The next phase of PIDA aims to achieve 100% mobile broadband coverage, deploy extensive fiber-optic backbone networks to connect all major urban centers, and establish Tier 3 data centers across regions. With a focus on rolling out 5G networks in at least 25 countries and implementing comprehensive digital skills programs, PIDA is working to achieve 50% internet penetration and create a thriving, inclusive digital market across Africa.
The Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) is a strategic initiative launched by the African Union to address critical infrastructure gaps across the continent.Â
pida@auda-nepad.orgÂ
PIDA’s Virtual Project Information Centre is upgrading to enhance project tracking and monitoring capabilities. System maintenance scheduled for February 15-17, 2024. New features include real-time updates, interactive maps, and mobile access. All users please save reports before February 15. Current logins remain valid.
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