A man in a data center
September 18, 2024

The Future of Digital Infrastructure in Africa

 

In recent years, Africa has emerged as a thriving centre for digital innovation and technological advancement. With a population of over 1.5 billion people, the continent has enormous potential for digital transformation, which could lead to significant economic growth, improved living standards, and establish Africa as a major player in the global tech industry. However, to bring this vision to fruition, it is essential to develop strong and sustainable digital infrastructure. 

 

Why Digital Infrastructure Matters 

Digital infrastructure refers to the technologies, systems, and platforms that enable communication, data exchange, and digital services. This includes internet access, mobile networks, data centres, cloud computing, and undersea cables. As more African nations adopt digital solutions, strong infrastructure becomes crucial for delivering reliable internet connectivity, fostering innovation, and driving socioeconomic growth. 

 For businesses, governments, and individuals, digital infrastructure is pivotal for accessing modern services. From banking and e-commerce to education, healthcare, and governance, nearly every sector increasingly relies on technological advancements. 

 

Key Trends Shaping Africa’s Digital Infrastructure 

      • 5G and High-Speed Connectivity: The rollout of 5G networks promises to revolutionise internet connectivity across Africa. This next-generation wireless technology offers faster speeds, lower latency, and the ability to support many connected devices. As more African nations prepare to introduce 5G, the potential for smart cities, autonomous technologies, and enhanced mobile experiences will transform how people live and work. In Ghana, for instance, the introduction of 5G by Next Gen Infraco, in partnership with major telecom operators, is expected to catalyse technological growth across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and education. The impact of widespread 5G access could bridge the digital divide and empower remote regions with high-speed internet, allowing rural communities to thrive in the digital economy.  
      • Data Centers and Cloud Adoption:    As Africa’s digital economy grows, so does the demand for secure, scalable, and locally hosted data solutions. The development of data centres across the continent is accelerating, with countries like Ghana, South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya becoming key players. These data centres support the growth of cloud services, which enable businesses to scale operations without the heavy investment in physical infrastructure. Cloud adoption is particularly vital for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up a significant portion of African economies. By leveraging cloud technology, businesses can access advanced software solutions, reduce operational costs, and tap into global markets, fuelling innovation and growth. In Ghana, Smart Infraco Limited is leading the way in providing data centre solutions for the Government and businesses. 
      • Fintech Innovation and Digital Payments: Africa has been a leader in fintech innovation, with mobile money solutions such as MoMo in Ghana, and M-Pesa in Kenya transforming how people access financial services. As mobile money and digital payments evolve, the need for secure and reliable infrastructure becomes even more pressing. Emerging technologies such as blockchain could further enhance financial inclusion, ensuring that unbanked populations gain access to formal financial systems. With the rise of digital wallets, e-commerce platforms, and cross-border payment solutions, Africa is poised to lead the world in fintech adoption. However, this growth hinges on developing a robust digital infrastructure capable of supporting the increasing volume of transactions. 
      • Cybersecurity and Data Privacy:  As digital infrastructure expands, so do concerns around cybersecurity and data privacy. With more organisations and governments storing sensitive data online, the need for effective cybersecurity frameworks is critical. Cyberattacks are on the rise globally, and Africa is not immune to this threat. Governments and organisations across Africa are beginning to adopt international cybersecurity standards, while many countries are drafting and implementing data protection laws. Building trust in the digital ecosystem is essential for fostering business growth and protecting citizens in the digital age. 

 

Challenges to Overcome 

Despite the promise of digital transformation, Africa faces several challenges in building its digital infrastructure: 

      • Lack of Electricity: In many cities and towns across rural and urban Africa, inconsistent power supply hinders the operation of digital networks and services. 
      • Cost of Internet: High data costs remain a barrier to widespread internet access, particularly for low-income populations. 
      • Limited Investments: Developing digital infrastructure requires significant capital investment, and some regions face challenges in attracting foreign investment. 

 

The Role of Public-Private Partnerships 

To address these challenges, public-private partnerships (PPPs) will be crucial. Governments and private sector companies must collaborate to create favourable conditions for investment in digital infrastructure. Initiatives such as the African Union’s “Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa” (2020–2030) provide a roadmap for countries to follow, promoting a collaborative approach to developing the continent’s digital economy. 

Additionally, international organisations and development agencies are increasingly recognising the importance of supporting Africa’s digital transformation. From the World Bank to the African Development Bank, global stakeholders are providing financial resources, technical expertise, and strategic partnerships to accelerate infrastructure development. 

 

The Road Ahead: A Digital Africa 

Africa’s digital future holds immense promise. With the right investments, policies, and partnerships in place, the continent is well on its way to becoming a major player in the global digital economy. The next decade will be crucial for laying the foundation for Africa’s digital transformation; businesses, governments, and communities all have a role to play. 

At Ascend Digital Solutions, we are committed to supporting Africa’s digital journey by providing cutting-edge technology, services, and solutions that drive innovation, enhance connectivity, and promote sustainable growth. The future of digital infrastructure in Africa is bright, and together, we can build a connected continent that thrives in the digital age.  

 

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August 29, 2024

Unveiling Ghana’s Digital Potential

 

Ascend Digital pioneers Ghana’s digital revolution, revolutionizing the sphere with initiatives like the Rural Telephony Program, elevating connectivity from Accra to rural Bawku, and envisioning Africa’s borderless digital future.

“Our focus is to ignite and create that space where
multinationals can see Africa as a place for
the next Industrial 4.0 revolution.”
Harkirit Singh, CEO of Ascend Digital Solutions Ltd.  

 

Ascend Digital Solutions, under the leadership of CEO Harkirit Singh, has been spearheading a remarkable transformation in Ghana’s digital landscape since 2021. Singh, reflecting on his journey, highlights the motivating factors driving the company’s success. “We’ve achieved key transformations as part of delivering the digital agenda,” Singh affirms, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing connectivity and infrastructure nationwide. 

One of Ascend Digital’s pivotal initiatives has been the Rural Telephony Program, which aims to deploy a robust mobile network across rural areas. Singh says, “We’re revitalizing and regenerating digital infrastructure, ensuring reliable connectivity from Accra to Bawku.” This initiative addresses connectivity gaps and lays the groundwork for socioeconomic development in remote regions.

Moreover, Ascend Digital has made substantial investments in national data centers, fiber infrastructure, and 4G LTE fixed wireless access networks, positioning itself as a leading provider of connectivity solutions to government agencies. Singh says, “We’ve earned credibility from public institutions, facilitating their digital transformation journey.” By onboarding ministries focused on critical sectors like energy, health, and mining, Ascend Digital is leveraging its data centers and cloud infrastructure to drive efficiency and innovation.

Transforming Digital Infrastructure Across Africa 

In a groundbreaking collaboration with AT Ghana, Ascend Digital recently completed the E-Transform program, a monumental effort connecting essential facilities like post offices, police stations, and hospitals across Ghana. Singh says, “This initiative, possibly the largest in West Africa, establishes a robust digital infrastructure extending to rural areas.” With a 100-gig backbone and upgraded data centers, Ascend Digital is poised to advance 4G and 5G services nationwide.

Singh outlines Ascend Digital’s overarching mission: “We aim to be a trusted partner in transforming digital infrastructure across Africa.” The company’s strategy revolves around fostering open-access neutral networks, enabling governments to enhance connectivity and drive digital innovation. “We’re not just building infrastructure; we’re creating opportunities for commercialization,” Singh says, underscoring Ascend Digital’s commitment to fostering collaboration with mobile network operators and internet service providers.

Ascend Digital’s strategic partnership with IUDX marks a pivotal moment in harnessing federated data exchange technology across the African continent. Singh says, “What we want to build up is an African- wide platform to establish autonomous federated databases within the countries, and these databases can interoperate and exchange information across countries.” This vision transcends borders, aiming to create a seamless environment for trade, mobility, and economic transactions. “Our vision is to build up a borderless Africa,” he adds.

The company’s commitment to innovation and excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed. Ascend Digital was honored as one of the ‘Most Innovative Companies to Watch 2023’ and received accolades such as the ‘Promoting Public Sector Digital Inclusion Award’ in Ghana. These recognitions underscore Ascend Digital’s pivotal role in driving the region’s digital transformation and socio-economic development.

Central to Ascend Digital’s mission is providing reliable infrastructure and e-government services. Singh highlights the transformative impact of their services, stating, “Before we took over, the availability in the data center was less than 80%. We now see almost 100% availability of these services.” From birth registrations to e-passport programs, Ascend Digital’s contributions have streamlined essential government services, fostering trust and efficiency in digital infrastructure.

Beyond corporate achievements, Ascend Digital is deeply invested in social responsibility. Singh elucidates their efforts in fostering digital literacy and empowering youth, particularly girls, through initiatives like the Geek Africa program. “We are looking at building more skills and capabilities by encouraging and motivating young people to move into the space of technology,” Singh says. By nurturing talent and promoting inclusivity, Ascend Digital is laying the groundwork for a thriving digital ecosystem.

Ascend Digital is poised for expansion beyond Ghana. Singh reveals, “Our success in Ghana is a blueprint for digital transformation in other markets.” With interest from neighboring countries like Senegal and Mali, Ascend Digital is positioned to replicate its achievements and accelerate digital growth across Africa. “We’re ready to partner with governments to leverage our infrastructure and expertise,” Singh says, highlighting Ascend Digital’s role as a catalyst for digital advancement continent-wide.

Singh discusses Ascend Digital’s joint venture with AT Ghana to develop a nationwide optical fiber infrastructure, extending connectivity to previously underserved areas. He highlights the transformative impact of these efforts, saying, “Now we’re bringing that digital currency into places that were never connected before.” From healthcare facilities to post offices and districts, Ascend Digital is bridging the digital divide and enabling access to essential services.

Laying The Foundation for Economic Growth 

Ascend Digital Solutions envisions a future where Africa emerges as a hub for software-centric solutions and high-skilled digital jobs. Singh elaborates on their ambitious plans to establish innovation hubs and software service factories across the ECOWAS region, starting with Ghana. “Our target is to build those factories in the next five years to generate approximately 20 to 30,000 jobs in software services,” Singh says. By creating avenues for upward mobility and economic empowerment, Ascend Digital seeks to catalyze Africa’s transition into the forefront of the global digital economy.

The CEO underscores Ghana’s unique approach to digital infrastructure development, citing initiatives such as the rural telephony program and public-private partnerships for national infrastructure. Singh praises the government’s vision and execution, saying, “The way the government has envisioned and the way it has been able to work to deliver those programs through the private sector allows investors to look and come to the economy, which is open.”

Ascend has further deepened its commitment to collaborations by partnering with the Government of Ghana, Nokia, Radisys, Tech Mahindra, and telecom players in Ghana to launch Africa’s first 4G and 5G shared mobile broadband infrastructure. This new joint initiative called Next Gen InfraCo (NGIC) will deliver affordable 5G mobile services to Ghanaians across the country, with plans to extend this across Africa.

Collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector have led to significant investments in Ghana’s digital infrastructure, laying the foundation for sustained economic growth. Recent developments, including the entry of new players like Telecel and ongoing discussions with investment banks, further exemplify Ghana’s appeal to international investors. Singh says, “That shows international investors who are putting a lot of faith in the policies, a lot of faith in the market that exists in Ghana, and investing in that digital infrastructure that allows the economy to grow.”

Singh articulates his vision for Ghana as the first digital-ready nation, where citizens can access services around the clock. He envisions “a 24/7 economy,” emphasizing the importance of building infrastructure that operates beyond traditional working hours. Ascend Digital has been instrumental in realizing this vision, with initiatives like the rural telephony program and establishing national backbone data centers.

Looking ahead, Singh emphasizes the importance of expanding connectivity to schools, judiciaries, and community centers. He envisions the proliferation of community Internet centers, empowering individuals in digital corridors across Ghana. Ascend Digital remains committed to advancing Ghana’s digital agenda, catalyzing innovation, and driving inclusive growth.

Ascend Digital Solution’s journey under Harkirit Singh’s leadership exemplifies a commitment to excellence and innovation in the digital realm. With a focus on bridging connectivity gaps, empowering governments, and driving socioeconomic progress, Ascend Digital is poised to positively shape Africa’s digital future.

Source: ForbesAfrica

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June 19, 2024

Ascend Digital Solutions Celebrates Triumphant Wins at the GITTA and Premier Marketing Leadership Awards 2024

Ascend Digital Solutions Ltd. is thrilled to announce its impressive wins at the recent Ghana Information Technology & Telecom Awards (GITTA) 2024 and the Premier Marketing Leadership Awards. The prestigious awards received solidifies Ascend’s position as a leader in Ghana’s digital landscape. 

The recognition began on June 7th, 2024, at the GITTA Awards as Ascend Digital Solutions Ltd., was honoured with the Public Sector Technology Provider of the Year and Telecom Personality of the Year for the visionary CEO, Harkirit Singh.  

As Public Sector Technology Provider of the year, this recognition highlights our dedication to transforming public services through innovative technology. Our initiatives, such as the Rural Telephony Programme, are making a significant impact by delivering voice and data services to millions of Ghanaians in rural Ghana, while our eTransform project is paving the way for digital innovation in public service delivery. This award therefore drives us to continue breaking new ground and driving digital transformation across Africa. 

With a great vision comes great leadership. Our CEO, Harkirit Singh, was named at the GITTA Awards as Telecom Personality of the Year. His leadership is propelling Ascend to the forefront of the digital revolution, positioning the company as a catalyst for technological advancement. Harkirit’s strategic vision extends beyond business growth; it’s about propelling African nations into the digital age. As such, we celebrate his well-deserved recognition as Telecom Personality of the Year.  

 

The winning streak continued on June 8th, 2024, at the Premier Marketing Leadership Awards. Thomas Brien, Ascend’s Head of Marketing, was lauded as the Marketing Professional of the Year (Information Technology). This recognition is a testament to Mr. Brien’s innovative marketing strategies and his significant role in positioning Ascend Digital Solutions Ltd. as a formidable brand in the IT sector. 

The Ascend Digital Solutions Ltd. marketing team was also recognized as Outstanding Marketing Team of the Year. This award celebrates the team’s exceptional efforts in brand building and promoting Ascend’s digital transformation agenda.  

We celebrate the triumphs of Ascend Digital Solutions Ltd. and its management as we look forward to continuous progress towards a digitally transformed Ghana and Africa. 

Read media coverage by TechFocus24 here.

Ascend Digital wins 4 laurels at GITTA and Premier Marketing Leadership Awards 2024 

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February 2, 2024

Harkirit Singh (our CEO) Joins a Panel Discussion on Day 2 of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2024

The Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2024, held in Ghana from January 25th to 27th, hummed with the energy of discussions aimed at charting a course for the continent’s economic rise. Heads of state, industry leaders, and ministers exchanged ideas under the theme “Developing Prosperity in Africa: Produce, Add Value, and Trade,” tackling critical issues like finance, investment, agriculture, and technology.

Harkirit Singh, our CEO, emerged as a key voice on Day 2, participating in a high-level session on “Critical Enablers for Single Market Success: Strategic Financing and Investment in Infrastructure.” His insights resonated with broader discussions, emphasizing the importance of connectivity, accessibility, and strategic partnerships for sustainable development.

Harkirit urged Africa to take charge by building hyperscale infrastructure and creating demand for data through affordable devices to promote mobile adoption. He also emphasized the need to learn from global success stories, drawing attention to transformative initiatives in countries like India and Japan. Their shift in regulatory approaches to spectrum pricing, he noted, had unlocked significant development potential.

Also noting India’s software industry boom, Harkirit urged a similar focus on empowering the youth. He believed the true transformative power lay not just in building hard infrastructure but in equipping young Africans with the tools and devices they needed to thrive. He envisioned a future where a tech-savvy youth, given the right opportunities, could rise above poverty and contribute to high-tech industries, generating wealth and jobs across the continent.

By advocating for strategic infrastructure investment, affordable technology, and youth empowerment, Harkirit’s voice added to the chorus of ideas shaping Africa’s path towards prosperity. The Africa Prosperity Dialogues 2024 served as a vital platform for these discussions, and the journey towards a more connected, empowered, and prosperous Africa continues.

To watch the full dialogue, click here.

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