The Botswana
Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) has commenced a three-day national
broadband mapping exercise in collaboration with the International
Telecommunication Union (ITU). The initiative, which kicked off today, aims to
revolutionize the country's digital landscape through comprehensive data
collection and analysis of broadband infrastructure.
The Africa
Broadband Maps National Event brings together key stakeholders to develop
strategic approaches for mapping Botswana's connectivity footprint. Discussions
focus on evaluating current broadband penetration, identifying underserved
areas, and creating actionable plans to bridge the digital divide. BOCRA
executives shared critical insights about Botswana's existing connectivity
status, setting the stage for data-driven policy interventions.
This initiative
forms part of Botswana's broader digital transformation agenda under the
national Vision 2035 framework. By leveraging ITU's technical expertise, the
mapping exercise will produce granular visibility of network coverage, quality,
and accessibility across urban and rural communities. The collected data is
expected to inform infrastructure investment decisions, universal service fund
allocations, and targeted interventions for schools, hospitals, and underserved
populations.
By: Kanto Kai Okanta