Persisting Digital Divide Hindering Growth, Says Expert
TKH &KLHI ([HFXWLYH 2FHU RI Quomodo Systems Limited, Oluwole Asalu, has decried persisting digital gap in Africa despite the spread and evolvement of technology across the globe.
He expressed concern that many Africans were still living in the past, thus denied opportunities that may have enriched their lives and developed the continent’s economy.
Asalu, while addressing journalists in Lagos, recently, noted that lack of access to reliable internet had left many excluded from global conversation, with their potential untapped and voices unheard.
Asalu, stated further that this challenge was beyond technological factor but a socio-economic crisis requiring immediate action.
He added, “Digital divide deepens existing inequalities, hinders social progress, and suppresses economic growth. Students without internet access risk falling behind, jeopardising their futures.
“Small businesses in remote areas remain disconnected from broader markets and essential ÀQDQFLDO VHUYLFHV +HDOWKFDUH DOVR VXͿHUV ZLWK limited access to telemedicine and vital health UHVRXUFHV SDUWLFXODUO\ LQ UXUDO DUHDVµ
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He opined that some private initiatives in the continent had been helpful and worth emulating.
“Initiatives like Digital Africa, with programmes such as Africa Next, Digital 4 Africa, the Q-Intern programme, and so on, are leading the way, driving digital skills and innovation as catalysts for post-pandemic economic recovery.