Economist Podcasts Down to the wires: Africa’s digital lag
17 snips
Jul 30, 2024 
Sophie Pedder, Paris Bureau Chief for The Economist, shares her insights on Africa's digital divide and how a lack of infrastructure hampers progress. She discusses the potential of mobile technology and AI to drive change but highlights the governmental barriers that hinder connectivity. Additionally, Pedder dives into the Seine River's pollution issues affecting events like the triathlon while exploring innovative solutions for Paris's urban sustainability. Lastly, she connects these topics to the cultural impact of 'The Blair Witch Project' in horror filmmaking.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Connectivity Challenges in Nigeria
- Ori Ibeji, in Nigeria, experienced internet connectivity issues during a podcast recording.
- This highlighted the digital divide and infrastructure gaps affecting Africa.
Africa's Bandwidth Deficit
- Until recently, all of Africa had less international bandwidth than Brazil.
- Nigeria's average wired internet download speed is a tenth of Denmark's, highlighting the digital lag.
Mobile Boom's Downside
- Prioritizing mobile phones hindered landline development in Africa.
- This lack of landline infrastructure now makes establishing fiber optic broadband more difficult.