Expanding Affordable and Resilient Digital Infrastructure

Connecting People, Economies, and Opportunities

Affordable and reliable broadband is the foundation of an inclusive digital economy. However, many communities across Eastern and Southern Africa still face limited connectivity due to high infrastructure costs, challenging terrain, and limited investment.

The Inclusive Digitalization in Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) Programme supports governments in expanding affordable, reliable, and climate-resilient digital infrastructure. By combining policy guidance, technical tools, and investment planning, IDEA helps countries accelerate broadband expansion and connect underserved communities.

IDEA works with governments, regulators, and development partners to strengthen digital infrastructure ecosystems that enable economic growth, digital services, and innovation.

Key Areas of Support

  1. Broadband Strategy Development

IDEA supports governments in developing national broadband strategies that guide long-term digital infrastructure expansion. This includes assessing connectivity gaps, setting national targets, and strengthening regulatory frameworks that encourage investment and competition.

  1. Least-Cost Connectivity Planning

To expand connectivity efficiently, IDEA applies least-cost connectivity models that identify the most cost-effective technology solutions such as fiber, mobile broadband, microwave, or satellite to connect underserved areas.

  1. Infrastructure Mapping and Planning

Using advanced digital infrastructure planning tools, governments can map existing networks, identify underserved regions, and analyze infrastructure sharing opportunities to optimize network deployment.

  1. Investment Prioritization

IDEA helps governments prioritize investments by identifying high-impact connectivity projects, including rural areas, cross-border corridors, and critical public institutions such as schools and hospitals.

  1. Sustainable Infrastructure Financing

The programme supports countries in mobilizing financing through public-private partnerships, universal service funds, and blended financing mechanisms, helping attract long-term investment in digital infrastructure.

  1. Climate-Resilient and Energy-Efficient Networks

IDEA promotes infrastructure development that integrates renewable energy solutions, energy-efficient technologies, and climate-resilient network design, ensuring connectivity remains reliable and sustainable.

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