Coker calls for investment in digital infrastructure across Africa
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
Dr. Ayotunde Coker, Chief Executive Officer of Open Access Data Centres, urged increased investment in data centres, cloud infrastructure, and connectivity to support Africa’s expanding digital economy. Speaking at the ICTEL Expo, Coker emphasized that reliable power supply and robust connectivity are foundational prerequisites for digital growth. He noted that rising internet adoption and cloud migration are driving higher demand for computing capacity across the continent. Coker highlighted that artificial intelligence and large language models will further intensify this need for infrastructure. He listed emerging technologies such as blockchain, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things as key drivers of future economic shifts. Addressing workforce development, he stressed the importance of acquiring relevant skills to transition from mere consumers to creators in the digital space. Coker also advocated for digital sovereignty, urging African nations to build local technology capacity rather than relying on foreign providers. Additionally, he called for stronger data protection and cybersecurity measures as reliance on digital platforms grows among businesses and government institutions.
💡 Why It Matters
- · Prioritizing local infrastructure and skills development allows African nations to control their technological trajectory rather than remaining dependent on external providers.
- · This shift is essential for capturing the economic value generated by emerging technologies like AI and cloud computing.