The Groupe Spécial Mobile Association (GSMA) has thrown its support behind the Abuja Ministerial Declaration on Meaningful Connectivity for Africa, describing the agreement as a major milestone in advancing the continent’s digital future through evidence-based policymaking, increased investment and stronger regional collaboration.
The declaration was adopted by ministers and heads of delegation during the concluded African Telecommunications Union (ATU) Conference of Plenipotentiaries (CPL-2026) in Abuja.
It commits African governments to implementing policies that promote meaningful connectivity, digital inclusion, technology-neutral regulation, resilient digital infrastructure and the development of locally relevant digital services.
The agreement also emphasises the need for stronger partnerships among governments, industry players and development partners to bridge Africa’s connectivity and digital usage gaps, which continue to hinder socio-economic development in many parts of the continent.
Speaking at the forum, Caroline Mbugua, Senior Director, Public Policy, Africa, GSMA, said the Abuja Ministerial Declaration demonstrates a common commitment among African governments to delivering meaningful connectivity through modern and investment-friendly policies.
“The Abuja Ministerial Declaration sends an important signal that African governments share a common vision for delivering meaningful connectivity through modern, evidence-based and investment-friendly policy. Its emphasis on digital inclusion, technology-neutral regulation, resilient infrastructure and stronger regional collaboration reflects the practical policy foundations needed to accelerate Africa’s digital transformation,” she said.
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According to the GSMA, the declaration reflects a shared vision among African nations to accelerate digital transformation by creating enabling policy environments that encourage innovation, investment and wider access to digital technologies.
The GSMA reaffirmed its commitment to working with governments, regulators and industry stakeholders to support the implementation of the declaration, with the aim of expanding digital access, strengthening infrastructure and unlocking new opportunities for economic growth and innovation across Africa.
