About 40 ICT experts from five Regional Economic Communities – COMESA, EAC, IGAD, IOC and SADC have reviewed and validated the new draft Policy and Regulatory Frameworks meant to increase access to affordable, reliable and meaningful ICT services for millions of Africans.
The documents will now be presented to the individual RECs before they can be domesticated by Member States.
According to the experts, this Policy and Frameworks will unlock the full potential of ICTs and improve inclusive access across the regions.
Through the European Union-funded Enhancement of Governance and Enabling Environment in ICT (EGEE-ICT) Programme, the five RECs acknowledge that in today’s interconnected world, ICTs are no longer optional—they are vital for economic growth, social inclusion, regional trade and innovation. For COMESA and its partners, digital infrastructure is a key component of regional integration, connecting markets, people and opportunities.
This was said during the Stakeholder Validation Workshop for Policy and Regulatory Frameworks for Universal Access held in Kigali, Rwanda from 30 September – 2nd October 2025. The event allowed the experts to ensure that the Policy and Frameworks are relevant, feasible and effectively address the key policy and regulatory challenges.
Director of Infrastructure and Logistics at COMESA Secretariat Dr Benard Dzawanda emphasized that “These gaps are particularly pronounced in rural areas, among marginalized populations and in countries with limited infrastructure. If left unaddressed, they could widen the digital divide and hamper our development goals.”
The workshop pointed out that despite progress, millions across the regions do not have access to ICTs and If left unaddressed, the situation risks widening the digital divide and undermining development goals.
Mr. Rodrique Ruhashya, Director General at Rwanda’s Ministry of Digital Transformation, added: “Robust universal access policies are essential for ensuring inclusive ICT services across the region. By updating and validating Universal Access policies, we can bridge the digital divide, drive economic growth and empower marginalized communities,”.
He highlighted key developments done in Rwanda to improve access to ICTs which include installing fiber optic and broadband network over all districts and border posts and over 4.5 million citizens have ben trained, with the ambition of achieving universal digital literacy within the next four years.
The EGEE-ICT programme aims at deepening regional integration and the growth of the ICT sector in EA-SA-IO region. The programme supports the review and development of various ICT policy and regulatory frameworks that contribute to enhanced competition and improved access to affordable and secure ICT infrastructure and services. The beneficiaries of the programme are the 29 countries of the EA-SA-IO region.