Latest news with #InternationalTelecommunicationUnion
Business Wire
30 minutes ago
- Business
- Business Wire
ITU Secretary-General and the IOWN Global Forum President and Chairperson Meet to Accelerate Further Collaboration
GENEVA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dr. Katsuhiko Kawazoe, President and Chairperson of the Innovative Optical and Wireless Network Global Forum (the IOWN Global Forum) visited Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and agreed to accelerate further collaboration between ITU and the IOWN Global Forum to achieve a more sustainable and smarter world on a global scale. Both leaders recognized the importance of innovative network and computing infrastructure utilizing photonics technologies and agreed to cooperate in global standardization activities, including in developing countries, as well as to cooperate in ITU's education programs on advanced optical technologies. The IOWN Global Forum will continue to develop industry standards in collaboration with standardization organizations to contribute to a more sustainable and smarter world. About the IOWN Global Forum The IOWN Global Forum was established in 2020 as a private sector organization to develop IOWN Global Forum technologies and use cases, and is comprised of over 160 organizations. The objective of the IOWN Global Forum is to accelerate innovation and adoption of a new communication infrastructure to meet our future data and computing requirements through the development of new technologies, frameworks, specifications, and reference designs in areas such as photonics R&D, distributed computing, use cases, and best practices. For more information, visit IOWN Global Forum – Innovative Optical and Wireless Network. About ITU The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations agency for digital technologies, driving innovation for people and the planet with 194 Member States and a membership of over 1,000 companies, universities, civil society, and international and regional organizations. Established in 1865, ITU coordinates the global use of the radio spectrum and satellite orbits, establishes international technology standards, drives universal connectivity and digital services, and is helping to make sure everyone benefits from sustainable digital transformation, including the most remote communities. From artificial intelligence (AI) to quantum, from satellites and submarine cables to advanced mobile and wireless broadband networks, ITU is committed to connecting the world and beyond. Learn more:
Japan Today
3 days ago
- Business
- Japan Today
Urgent need for global approach on AI regulation: U.N. tech chief
A man works on the electronics of Jules, a humanoid robot from Hanson Robotics using AI, at the recent International Telecommunication Union AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva By Nina LARSON The world urgently needs to find a global approach on regulating artificial intelligence, the United Nations' top tech chief said, warning that fragmentation could deepen risks and inequalities. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, head of the UN's International Telecommunications Union (ITU) agency, told AFP she hoped that AI "can actually benefit humanity". But as concerns mount over the risks posed by the fast-moving technology -- including fears of mass job losses, the spread of deepfakes and disinformation, and society's fabric fraying -- she insisted that regulation was key. "There's an urgency to try to get... the right framework in place," she said, stressing the need for "a global approach". Her comments came after U.S. President Donald Trump last week unveiled an aggressive, low-regulation strategy aimed at ensuring the United States stays ahead of China on AI. Among more than 90 proposals, Trump's plan calls for sweeping deregulation, with the administration promising to "remove red tape and onerous regulation" that could hinder private sector AI development. Asked if she had concerns about an approach that urges less, not more, regulation of AI technologies, Bogdan-Martin refrained from commenting, saying she was "still trying to digest" the U.S. plan. "I think there are different approaches," she said. "We have the EU approach. We have the Chinese approach. Now we're seeing the U.S. approach. I think what's needed is for those approaches to dialogue," she said. At the same time, she highlighted that "85 percent of countries don't yet have AI policies or strategies". A consistent theme among those strategies that do exist is the focus on innovation, capacity building and infrastructure investments, Bogdan-Martin said. "But where I think the debate still needs to happen at a global level is trying to figure out how much regulation, how little regulation, is needed," she said. Bogdan-Martin, who grew up in New Jersey and has spent most of her more than three-decade career at the ITU, insisted the Geneva-based telecoms agency that sets standards for new technologies was well-placed to help facilitate much-needed dialogue on the issue. "The need for a global approach I think is critical," she said, cautioning that "fragmented approaches will not help serve and reach all". As countries and companies sprint to cement their dominance in the booming sector, there are concerns that precautions could be thrown to the wind -- and that those who lose the race or do not have the capacity to participate will be left behind. The ITU chief hailed "mind-blowing" advances within artificial intelligence, with the potential to improve everything from education to agriculture to health care -- but insisted the benefits must be shared. Without a concerted effort, there is a risk that AI will end up standing for "advancing inequalities", she warned, cautioning against deepening an already dire digital divide worldwide. "We have 2.6 billion people that have no access to the internet, which means they have no access to artificial intelligence", Bogdan-Martin pointed out. "We have to tackle those divides if we're actually going to have something that is beneficial to all of humanity." Bogdan-Martin, the first woman to serve as ITU secretary-general in the organization's nearly 160-year history, also stressed the need to get more women into the digital space. "We have a huge gap," she said. "We definitely don't have enough women... in artificial intelligence." The 59-year-old mother of four said it was "a big honor" to be the first woman in her position, to be "breaking the glass ceiling (and) paving the path for future generations". But she acknowledged there was a lot of pressure, "not just to achieve, but to almost overachieve". Bogdan-Martin, who is being backed by the Trump administration to stand for re-election when her four-year mandate ends next year, said she was eager to stay on for a second term. "There is a lot to do." © 2025 AFP
Morocco World
4 days ago
- Business
- Morocco World
Akhannouch: Expanding Telecom Access Nationwide Is a National Priority
Rabat – Head of Government, Aziz Akhannouch, emphasized on Friday the urgent need to accelerate the expansion of telecommunications networks across the country, calling it a vital national priority that can no longer be delayed. Speaking at the board meeting of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) in Rabat, Akhannouch highlighted that, despite the progress achieved by telecom operators and regulatory bodies, large segments of the population — particularly in rural and mountainous regions — still lack reliable access to telecommunications services. 'Ensuring access to quality telecom services for all citizens is no longer optional — it is a pressing need that requires immediate action,' Akhannouch stated, underlining the role of connectivity in reducing regional and digital inequalities. He urged the ANRT and relevant ministries to identify underserved areas and work together to rapidly deploy telecom infrastructure that meets the needs of those communities. The government stands ready to fully support these efforts and mobilize the necessary resources to close the digital gap, he argued. Akhannouch also reaffirmed Morocco's commitment to a comprehensive digital transformation, guided by the national 'Morocco Digital 2030' strategy. He stressed that universal access to high-speed internet and digital tools is crucial for inclusive socio-economic development and for keeping pace with global technological shifts. Beyond service 'Telecommunications is not just a service — it's a driver of national development,' he said. 'It supports job creation, improves competitiveness across sectors, and lays the foundation for sustainable, inclusive growth.' He noted that Morocco has already made major strides, with over 57 million mobile subscribers and nearly 40 million internet users. These achievements have placed Morocco among the top-performing African countries in the International Telecommunication Union's ICT Development Index. Looking ahead, Akhannouch said that Morocco must be ready to meet the demands of upcoming international events it will host, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, by strengthening its telecom infrastructure and internet coverage. He confirmed that efforts are underway to connect more than 5.2 million households by 2030 through expanded fiber optic networks and high-speed internet access. In addition, the rollout of 5G is in progress, with tender procedures already launched to introduce the technology in key cities. Akhannouch concluded by commending the efforts of telecom operators who continue to invest and innovate in the sector. He called on all stakeholders to remain committed to building a more connected, digitally inclusive Morocco. Despite significant progress in expanding telecommunications infrastructure, Morocco still has many remote villages, particularly in mountainous and rural areas, that remain without basic connectivity or internet access. These underserved regions face ongoing challenges in accessing essential digital services, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive network coverage to ensure that all citizens benefit equally from the country's digital transformation efforts. Tags: akhannouchConnectivitymorocco ANRT
Morocco World
5 days ago
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco to Invest $8 Billion for 85% 5G Coverage by 2030
Marrakech – The Moroccan government has announced plans to invest MAD 80 billion ($8 billion) to deploy 5G technology across the country, with the goal of covering 85% of the population by 2030. The announcement came during the board meeting of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT), held Friday in Rabat under the chairmanship of Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch. The ambitious project will begin implementation by the end of 2025, with several major cities receiving 5G coverage in the initial phase. This initiative forms part of the broader 'Morocco Digital 2030' strategy, which aims to accelerate the country's digital transformation. During the meeting, ANRT Director General Azzelarab Hassibi presented the current state of telecommunications in Morocco. He noted that mobile phone services now reach 57 million subscribers, while internet users number approximately 40 million, representing a 90% penetration rate – significantly higher than the African continental average of 37%. These advancements have positioned Morocco as the leading African country in the 2025 International Telecommunication Union (ITU) rankings according to the Information and Communication Technology Development Index (IDI). The board meeting also addressed territorial disparities in telecommunications coverage. Akhannouch stressed the importance of ensuring network coverage throughout the entire country, particularly in mountainous regions. He instructed the ANRT to identify areas with limited or no coverage and to coordinate with relevant government departments and the private sector to provide citizens with reliable, high-quality telecommunications services. As part of this effort, the board approved a national survey to identify remote localities suffering from weak or non-existent telecommunications coverage. These areas will be progressively integrated into a targeted deployment program. Additionally, the ANRT announced an update to the National Frequency Plan to adapt to technological developments and support the country's socio-economic needs. The agency will continue implementing structural projects to extend high-speed internet access and fiber optic networks alongside the gradual introduction of 5G technology. This telecommunications expansion comes as the North African country prepares to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) later this year and co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. These events demand strong digital infrastructure to enable global media access and enrich visitor experience, as Morocco works to close the digital gap and improve development indicators. Tags: 5G5G technology Moroccointernet in MoroccoMorocco Digital Plan 2020
The South African
6 days ago
- Business
- The South African
Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa: Two major barriers to digital inclusion in SA
Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, Chairperson of B20 South Africa's Digital Transformation Task Force, was one of the speakers at an International Telecommunication Union (ITU) session held in Johannesburg on Friday, 18 July. Mahanyele-Dabengwa was asked about the worrying number of South Africans currently without internet access and the barriers holding the country back from digital inclusion. Mahanyele-Dabengwa, who is also the South Africa CEO and Executive Director at Naspers, was also questioned on the actions to be taken to transition the remainder of the population online. In her detailed response, Mahanyele-Dabengwa admitted that while South Africa has made meaningful progress in digital policy and innovation – from pioneering TV White Space trials to implementing spectrum auctions with social obligations – the reality is that around 25% of our population remains offline. She added that from her perspective, despite the significant advancements, two key barriers continue to hinder digital inclusion: Infrastructure availability – Many underserved communities, particularly in rural provinces like Limpopo and the Eastern Cape, still lack access to reliable broadband infrastructure. Affordability – Even where infrastructure exists, it's often unaffordable for low-income households to access devices and data. Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa went on to mention that according to the GSMA, the single biggest barrier to internet use in South Africa is the cost of smart devices and mobile data. To break it down further: The poorest 20% of South Africans spend roughly 12% of their monthly income just to afford 1GB of data – six times higher than the global affordability benchmark of 2%. This is simply unsustainable for widespread, equitable digital participation, added Mahanyele-Dabengwa. Coverage gap She also cited the current coverage gap, especially in rural and peri-urban communities, as a major obstacle. Open Signal data shows that rural users in South Africa experience 15% slower download speeds and nearly double the signal outages compared to those in urban areas. These infrastructure disparities mean that even when users can afford data, the experience is limited and unreliable. Mahanyele-Dabengwa concluded by saying that to close these gaps and drive meaningful digital inclusion, we must act on three fronts: Promote affordability of devices and data – Consider removing or reducing import taxes and VAT on entry-level digital devices. – Introduce targeted incentives for telcos to reduce mobile broadband pricing in low-income markets. 2. Invest in last-mile infrastructure – Expand rural connectivity through public-private partnerships. – For example, Vodacom's R430 million rural 4G project in the Eastern Cape brought mobile connectivity to 19 previously unserved villages. – These are the kinds of investments we must scale nationally. 3. Streamline regulatory frameworks – Fast-track spectrum licensing and simplify municipal-level approvals to accelerate network expansion. – Empower smaller ISPs and community networks with flexible access to infrastructure and open access models. Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa's comments underscore the urgency of closing South Africa's digital gap, especially as the economy grows more reliant on digital access. Her call to action stresses that connectivity is not a luxury, but a lifeline – and one that must be made available to all South Africans. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
