New reports on Open Internet strategies in Africa unveiled

The European Commission has released four new reports highlighting the importance of Open Internet connectivity in driving human-centric development in African countries. The case studies from Burundi, Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa emphasize the role of a free, global, reliable, affordable, and secure internet in promoting social and economic growth in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

The reports, prepared by a team of independent experts, emphasize the need for a consistent policy approach that integrates digital technologies and the Open Internet to maximize opportunities for growth. They stress the importance of investing in Open Internet digital infrastructure, creating enabling policy environments, developing skills and competences, fostering an Open Internet economy, and participating in Open Internet governance.

These reports serve as a roadmap for other countries and regions on how Open Internet approaches can support digital development, harness economic potential, and uphold fundamental rights and values. The European Commission’s President, Ursula von der Leyen, has highlighted the importance of promoting an open, free, global, stable, and secure internet based on a multi-stakeholder model of governance.

The reports were produced as part of the “Promotion and Development of the Open Internet in Africa” project funded by the EU Global Gateway. They aim to support the EU’s efforts in championing citizen’s rights in the digital world and promoting a more inclusive and accessible internet for all.