A new report published today by the Internet Society explains the steps African countries can take to bring faster and less expensive Internet connectivity to the continent.
The report illustrated how better connectivity represents a key opportunity for countries to continue to develop more resilient digital economies.
Entitled, ‘Anchoring the African Internet Ecosystem: Lessons from Kenya and Nigeria’s Internet Exchange Points Growth,‘ the report revealed how a vibrant Internet ecosystem is critical to bringing faster, and more affordable Internet to Africa.
A statement by the society said, “Internet exchange points are locations where Internet service providers (ISPs) and other network operators meet and exchange Internet traffic. They are a critical piece of technical infrastructure that improves Internet access by keeping Internet traffic local. Without a local IXP, Internet service providers have to use expensive international Internet connectivity to exchange and access content (which is usually hosted abroad). Allowing traffic to remain local results in faster and more affordable Internet access.”
The report launched today, gave an update on a study published by the Internet Society in 2012 which examined two of Africa’s more advanced Internet Exchange Points at the time – KIXP in Kenya, and IXPN in Nigeria.
“Kenya and Nigeria are in a better position than ever before to cope with – and contribute to – the digital revolution that COVID-19 has accelerated as the Internet becomes a lifeline for many people. It’s clear Africa is ready to embrace the digital revolution to spur economic development. But reaching this goal will depend on our community of passionate people on the ground, policymakers, regulators and businesses embracing IXPs and working in collaboration to create these essential local traffic anchors,” said Michuki Mwangi, Senior Director of Internet Technology and Development for the Internet Society.
The rapid pace of Internet development in both Kenya and Nigeria, according to the society, underscores the critical role that IXPs and the accompanying infrastructure play in the establishment of strong and sustainable Internet ecosystems.
