The coronavirus pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital technologies across all sectors. Unfortunately, the unconnected communities are at a disadvantage as essential services and information including much-needed health information on vaccines is now delivered using digital technologies. Community networks are working to close this gap through holistic digital inclusion. As the movement grows in Africa, there is a need for tools and resources to support both new and existing networks to become sustainable and scalable.
The objective of this session was to present essential tools and resources that community networks can use in navigating the different stages and processes needed in setting up and operating a sustainable community network.
The Internet Society and APC shared some tools, regulatory and policy updates happening in the space. The session gave participants an opportunity to share some challenges and recommend tools that may be needed to address those gaps.