We need connected enterprises that can digitize, thrive and generate jobs, tax revenues, and contribute to tackling climate change. There is significant untapped connectivity potential among Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. Worldwide, these MSMEs account for 9/10 businesses, ½ of global GDP and about 2/3 of jobs.

Broadband extension, quality and adequate services are urgent as they represent the backbone of economic, social and territorial cohesion. Even in countries that enjoy a wide digital connectivity network, rural connectivity is still an issue. Globally, 72% of households in urban areas had access to Internet at home in 2019, almost twice as much as in rural areas. Spain ranks third for digital connectivity in Europe.

Rural and urban areas are often viewed as contrasting areas with a greater level of poverty in urban areas. This impression has led to differences in policy direction across Africa and therefore become a self-fulfilling prophecy which has kept the rural community poorer than the urban one. The conventional model for providing connectivity, the basic enabler needed to break the digital divide, has not been in favor of the rural area.