The European Union (EU) has announced a significant investment in Africa’s digital future through a new broadband infrastructure initiative valued at $16 million. This project, titled Africa-BB-Maps, is part of the EU’s broader Global Gateway strategy, a €300 billion global infrastructure plan aimed at fostering sustainable development and digital transformation, particularly in Africa.
Africa-BB-Maps is a four-year initiative (2025–2028) that will be implemented by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Its primary objective is to support national telecommunications regulators in 11 African countries by equipping them with standardized broadband mapping systems. These systems will enable the collection of accurate, granular data on internet infrastructure coverage and connectivity gaps.
The participating countries include:
- Benin
- Botswana
- Burundi
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Malawi
- Nigeria
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
The initiative is designed to:
- Identify underserved areas lacking reliable internet access.
- Guide public and private investment in broadband infrastructure.
- Inform regulatory frameworks and policy decisions with data-driven insights.
- Build institutional capacity for long-term digital planning and governance.
This project is especially timely given that, as of 2024, less than 40% of Africa’s population had consistent access to the internet. Many rural and remote communities remain disconnected, and governments often lack the tools to effectively allocate resources for digital infrastructure.
Nigeria has emerged as a regional leader in broadband mapping. Its framework, developed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has been recognized for its technical sophistication and transparency. Experts have recommended replicating Nigeria’s model across West Africa and have proposed the creation of a regional task force to harmonize mapping standards.
Africa-BB-Maps was officially launched during a regional workshop held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, in March 2025. The event brought together representatives from African governments, the EU, and international development organizations. Stakeholders expressed strong support for the initiative, emphasizing its potential to:
- Strengthen digital governance
- Accelerate infrastructure deployment
- Foster inclusive digital economies
Beyond improving internet access, the EU views broadband infrastructure as a foundation for economic resilience. Enhanced connectivity is expected to boost:
- Innovation and entrepreneurship
- Digital education (e-learning)
- E-governance and public service delivery
Africa-BB-Maps also reflects the EU’s deepening engagement in Africa’s digital transformation, positioning the Global Gateway as a strategic alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Unlike previous high-level commitments, this project marks a tangible shift from vision to implementation, showcasing Europe’s commitment to building sustainable, inclusive digital ecosystems in Africa.
