Equitability of Access to the Internet in Ethiopia

The Center for Advancement of Rights and Democracy (CARD) today launched a new research report titled "Equitability of Access to the Internet in Ethiopia." Funded by AccessNow, the study employed a mixed research methods approach to examine existing disparities in internet access among various socio-demographic groups across the country. This methodology combined quantitative data collection through a survey of 810 respondents with qualitative approaches including key informant interviews, document analysis, and field observation. This triangulation of methods provided a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing internet access and usage patterns in Ethiopia.

Limited internet access and low digital literacy skills among Ethiopians pose a challenge to the country's full participation in the digital age. This is further compounded by the lack of comprehensive legal frameworks to safeguard online user safety.

Recognizing this gap, CARD works through its Digital Rights Program to advocate for increased internet access and the protection of online freedoms and security for Ethiopians. CARD views digital rights as a cornerstone for strengthening democratic principles. Unfettered access to information empowers citizens to express themselves freely, mobilize communities, and organize for change.

It is against this backdrop that CARD launched the research report with the following key findings.

Key Findings

• Mobile data plans are the most popular method of internet access, with WIFI hotspots and fixed broadband coming in second and third, respectively.
• Significant regional disparities exist. Residents of Addis Ababa have better access to advanced internet connections compared to those in Arba Minch. Additionally, men, individuals with higher income and education levels tend to enjoy longer internet usage times and explore a wider range of online activities.
• The study revealed moderate internet usage overall, with a quarter of respondents spending between two and four hours online daily. This figure is considerably lower than the global average of seven hours.
• Limited internet usage for activities like online banking, education, and e-commerce was identified.

Recommendations

The report presents a series of recommendations aimed at bridging the digital divide in Ethiopia.

• Infrastructure Development

  • Diversify connectivity options to reduce reliance on external sources.
  • Expand network infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas, by erecting new cell towers and deploying fiber optic cables.
  • Invest in next-generation technologies like 5G and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) to meet the growing demand for high-speed internet.

• Affordability and Access

  • Implement measures to make internet access more affordable, such as subsidizing home internet services for low-income households and fixed broadband internet.
  • Encourage private sector involvement in infrastructure development, particularly in underserved areas.
  • Revitalize public WIFI access points through partnerships with local businesses and community centers.

• Digital Literacy and User Empowerment

  • Promote smartphone accessibility through trade-in programs that incentivize upgrades.
  • Leverage educational institutions to integrate digital skills training within formal curricula.
  • Implement targeted initiatives to address the gender-based digital divide and promote digital literacy among women.
  • Develop age-appropriate digital literacy programs catering to the needs of different demographics.

• Policy and Regulatory Framework

  • Review regulatory frameworks to facilitate the entry of new telecom operators and encourage competition.
  • Introduce incentives to attract investments in infrastructure expansion, particularly in rural regions.
  • Foster public-private partnerships to expedite infrastructure development.

• E-commerce Growth

  • Implement comprehensive digital literacy initiatives to empower individuals with the skills needed to utilize advanced internet functionalities and navigate online platforms.
  • Establish favorable regulatory frameworks and enhance digital payment infrastructure to support e-commerce growth.

By implementing these recommendations, Ethiopia can work towards ensuring equitable access to the internet for all its citizens, unlocking the transformative potential of the digital age. CARD continues to advocate for more and equitable accessibility of the internet, against shutdowns, and for protection of online citizens. 

Please read the full report here.