AfriLabs, a leading pan-African network of over 500 innovation hubs spanning 53 countries, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) to fast-track digital innovation continent-wide. This collaboration unites ATU’s 52 member states with AfriLabs’ vast ecosystem, aiming to drive inclusive technological progress, empower local solutions, and catalyze transformative economic growth across Africa.
The partnership seeks to bridge the widening gap between Africa’s significant digital potential and its current low internet access levels. Despite projections that Africa’s internet economy could reach US$712 billion by 2050, only 38% of the continent’s population was online at the end of 2024—the lowest regional internet penetration globally.
John Omo, ATU Secretary General, highlighted that African entrepreneurs possess resilience and ideas but are often hindered by fragmented regulations and limited continental exposure. “This collaboration aims to provide a framework that allows innovators to focus on practical solutions rather than bureaucratic challenges,” he said.
A key focus will be leveraging the anticipated surge in mobile internet adoption over the next five years—especially 5G technology—to incubate tailored solutions that meet Africa’s diverse market needs and drive greater digital inclusion.
Anna Ekeledo, AfriLabs Executive Director, noted, “By aligning our pan-African innovation network with ATU’s regulatory influence, we’re laying the groundwork for a future where every entrepreneur, regardless of location, can scale bold ideas into impactful solutions.”
The MoU also includes establishing a joint program to strengthen intellectual property (IP) protection and commercialization for African innovators, bolstering the continent’s IP ecosystem.
This partnership aligns closely with the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa 2020-2030, which targets increasing internet penetration to 80% by 2030.
