Microsoft has exceeded its 2025 target of connecting 100 million Africans, now reaching 117 million people across the continent through partnerships spanning ISPs, device makers, agricultural cooperatives, and public-sector collaborations. The achievement marks a major milestone in Microsoft’s effort to close connectivity gaps and create meaningful digital access.
Speaking to Developing Telecoms, Melanie Nakagawa, Microsoft’s Chief Sustainability Officer, said the company defines a “connected individual” as someone who gains stable, reliable internet access — the foundational first step before digital skills, services, and AI tools can make an economic impact. With 2.2 billion people worldwide still offline, connectivity remains the critical first layer in a broader digital inclusion pyramid.
Microsoft’s progress has been driven by diverse models: long-time partner Mawingu in East Africa (28 million connected), gaming-based inclusion initiatives like the Ilitha, She Plays programme, and large-scale fixed-wireless deployments by Cassava reaching 30 million users across multiple African markets. The company now evaluates partners based on their ability to scale, blend capital, align with governments, and drive community-level impact.
Its new partnership with the African Development Bank aims to tackle two major barriers for agricultural SMEs — digital infrastructure and an annual $74–80 billion financing gap. Over the next five years, the initiative will support value-chain integration, farmer productivity, and digital financial access through blended finance and connectivity.
Nakagawa highlighted consistent challenges: insufficient connectivity mapping data, the need for technology-neutral regulation, digital skills shortages, and sustainable long-term funding. Markets like South Africa, Kenya, and Uganda were cited as positive examples of strong coordination and supportive policy environments.
Looking ahead, Microsoft’s phase two focuses on scaling what works: pairing connectivity with education, digital skilling, and proof-of-impact economic models. The goal is not only to connect millions more but to ensure communities acquire the skills and tools needed to thrive in the digital economy.
