Internet access and connectivity are major factors that can transform a developing country’s economy, especially those in West Africa. Achieving the desired transformation will require access to fast, affordable and safe internet connection. Benefits of internet access and connectivity are visible in the improvements several sectors of the African economy have experienced. These include noticeable improvements in the health sector and the financial and communication sectors. Internet usage continues to prove pivotal in creating jobs, improvement of education systems, and provision of opportunities for global partnerships. It has helped bridge the digital divide between Africa and advanced economies.
Internet access and connectivity are major factors that can transform a developing country’s economy, especially those in West Africa. Achieving the desired transformation will require access to fast, affordable and safe internet connection.
Benefits of internet access and connectivity are visible in the improvements several sectors of the African economy have experienced. These include noticeable improvements in the health sector and the financial and communication sectors.
Internet usage continues to prove pivotal in creating jobs, improvement of education systems, and provision of opportunities for global partnerships. It has helped bridge the digital divide between Africa and advanced economies.
According to Internet World Stats, there was a significant rise in internet usage in West Africa between 2000 and 2021. Togo recorded a growth rate of 912%; the highest percentage change in West Africa between 2000 and 2021.
São Tomé and Príncipe has the second highest percentage change within the same period as internet usage rose by 882%. Liberia and Nigeria’s internet usage rose by 152.1% and 101.4% respectively, within the same period. Other countries like Niger, Mali, and Ghana recorded increases in internet usage by 67.1%, 66.3%, and 49.1% correspondingly.
Countries like Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Guinea, Cote d’Ivoire, and Benin had less than 50% internet usage increase each in 2021, with Senegal recording 24.2%.
Internet access and usage are essential for doing business, and countries that maximize the potential of the internet and technology have a higher chance of passing on economic benefits to their citizens. Governments and international agencies have seen the potential and relevance of internet access, and how it can serve as a useful tool in creating a knowledgeable society.
Access to the internet has been useful in improving the lives of its users, helping them save money and time, and also providing better access to education, news, entertainment, health, and job-related information. It has also made it easier for people to run their businesses online and perform financial transactions conveniently.
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