The report describes existing gaps and opportunities in digitization, such as:

Infrastructure: mobile Internet access is widespread, but a coverage gap (areas without a mobile broadband network) of 7 % of the population (45 million people) persists.

Seventy-four percent of urban households have fixed Internet access, and only 42% in rural areas. Quality is also an issue: 55% of households with some form of Internet connection report low quality of service. Addressing these disparities requires a combination of technological and institutional innovations to facilitate Internet access.

Usage gaps: 38% of the population (240 million people) live in areas with Internet coverage, but choose not to connect. Reasons for this include the high cost of Internet services, lack of awareness of the potential benefits of connectivity, and lack of knowledge of digital platforms. Addressing affordability and expanding digital skills is critical to reducing these gaps.

Beyond access: Investing in complementary areas is essential to ensure inclusion. Broadband access alone is not enough. People need to have the tools and skills to take advantage of the opportunities of the digital economy. Critical areas for action include strengthening digital and traditional human capital skills and management competencies; ensuring the availability of funding; efficient government protocols and a supportive regulatory structure.

Governance: Digital tools can make governments more responsive by facilitating transactions with citizens, improving the efficiency and quality of service delivery, and promoting inclusion. Reducing transaction costs particularly benefits the most remote and disadvantaged segments of society. The use of digital networks and tools can help reduce the large proportion of GDP (up to 4%) that is lost in inefficiencies in public spending.

Translated by: A.M