November 20th, 2014
The CTO calls for more prominent Internet access in post-2015 global development goals
NAIROBI, 19 NOVEMBER 2014 – In his official welcome address at the inaugural Commonwealth Broadband Forum 2014 held on 18 – 20 November in Nairobi, Professor Tim Unwin, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) has argued that access to the Internet should feature more prominently in the post-2015 sustainable development goals.
Professor Unwin was emphasising the importance of broadband and how we should all be working to ensure that the poorest and most marginalised groups are not excluded and are able to grasp the opportunities provided by new technologies.
“Broadband connectivity should not only be used for economic growth but should also be used as a driver for social justice and effective governance”, Professor Unwin also said.
Over 130 delegates from Commonwealth countries are taking part in the event, which is hosted by the Communications Authority of Kenya. Over three days, they will examine many aspects of broadband, including the future of broadband and mobile technologies across the Commonwealth and beyond, and the impact that these technologies will have in driving innovation and growth.
Discussions at the event are focused on the theme of “Broadband for Accelerated Growth”, with sessions addressing the following issues:
- Mobile broadband technologies: 4G and LTE
- Broadband access and infrastructure aiding development
- Cloud computing for emerging markets
- Broadband applications and value-added services
- Inclusion and innovation beyond broadband: The rise of tech cities
- Financing broadband in Africa
- Strengthening broadband public-private partnerships to accelerate investment projects.
More Information
The Communications Team
