Broadband access in Africa is expanding rapidly, improving connectivity and driving economic growth. Countries like Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, and Mauritius lead in fixed broadband speeds, reflecting advancements in infrastructure and digital transformation. Strategic investments and policy reforms are essential to accelerate progress and bridge the digital divide across the continent.
Pakistan is preparing for a major spectrum auction to enhance mobile broadband capacity and support next-gen services. With mobile data consumption rising, the government plans to auction 567 MHz of spectrum. The auction aims to promote investment, improve network coverage, and ensure long-term telecom sector sustainability.
Sri Lanka’s Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRCSL) has dismissed rumors of suspending the Starlink satellite broadband service. Director General Bandula Herath confirmed the service will launch in April once the necessary regulatory systems are in place, ensuring proper service delivery and national security regulations.
Kacific and Paksat International have partnered to enhance broadband connectivity in Pakistan using the Paksat-MM1 satellite. This collaboration will provide affordable, high-speed internet, especially in remote regions, improving mobile backhaul, backup connectivity, and supporting businesses, government agencies, and ISPs, while boosting digital inclusion across the country.
The PTA is reviewing the Local Loop licensing regime to align with new technologies like VoIP and NFV. Proposals include allowing licensees to focus solely on broadband services, making the system technology-neutral, and improving efficiency. The aim is to foster competition, enhance service quality, and accelerate digital transformation.
Wispap has urged Pakistan’s telecom regulator to modernize the local loop licensing framework, advocating for a broadband-only licensing category and the adoption of technology-neutral approaches. The reforms are crucial for enhancing broadband expansion, fostering competition, and attracting investments, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Pakistan has declared 2025 as the “Year of 5G” and unveiled plans to increase broadband speeds to 50-100 Mbps and expand Fibre-To-The-Site (FTTS) coverage to 60%. The government aims to enhance telecom infrastructure with a 5G spectrum auction in 2025 and a nationwide fiber network expansion.
Turkey is exploring the creation of a unified fiber optic telecom entity to accelerate broadband expansion. The plan aims to streamline infrastructure investments, benefit smaller providers, and address Turkey’s broadband usage and speed challenges. The initiative could challenge Turk Telekom’s dominance, with significant implications for the industry.
Gilat Telecom collaborates with Novelsat to expand and enhance broadband services across Africa, using advanced satellite modem technology to increase network capacity and reach.
