SAMENA Council CEO, Bocar Ba, made thought contributions during the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on "Digital Inclusion and Transformation" held in Astana, Kazakhstan. The event, which brought together prominent policymakers, industry leaders, and international experts, focused on exploring the current achievements and future impact of digital technologies across the Asia-Pacific region.
In his intervention, Ba praised Kazakhstan’s remarkable progress in digital transformation, positioning the country as a leader in the CIS region. “Kazakhstan’s digital journey, particularly through the 'Digital Kazakhstan' initiative, sets a benchmark not only for the CIS but also for countries across the globe aiming to harness technology for socio-economic development,” Mr. Ba stated.
Recognizing Kazakhstan’s impressive internet penetration of 92.3% and its strides in 4G and 5G connectivity, Ba acknowledged the government’s vision of achieving universal high-quality internet access by 2025. “Kazakhstan’s commitment to ensuring 100% population coverage and fostering a thriving digital ecosystem is commendable, and something SAMENA Council is observing very closely. This includes the development of e-government services, digital literacy, and support for digital industries through innovation hubs like the Astana Hub,” he added.
Driving Digital Inclusion and Economic Growth
Mr. Ba emphasized the transformative power of digital inclusion in driving economic growth and social development. He discussed how Kazakhstan’s improved broadband access has accelerated progress in sectors such as healthcare, education, and business. “From e-learning platforms to remote healthcare services, the digital transformation is touching the lives of people across Kazakhstan. However, we must continue to focus on closing the digital divide, particularly for rural and underserved communities,” said Ba.
He further pointed to Kazakhstan’s leadership in the CIS region and its proactive adoption of AI, 5G, and satellite broadband technologies, positioning the country as a regional digital hub. “Kazakhstan’s push for next-generation technologies reflects its readiness to lead the region in innovation and digital infrastructure development,” he added
SAMENA Council's Commitment to Universal Broadband
During the ITU WSIS Side Event at the same conference, Bocar Ba reiterated SAMENA Council’s commitment to supporting universal broadband access, stressing the importance of strategic partnerships in achieving global digital inclusion goals. He highlighted SAMENA Council’s collaboration with the ITU and its active role in promoting innovative funding and financing models for broadband infrastructure, particularly through its co-chairmanship of the UN Broadband Commission's Working Group on 21st Century Financing Models.
“Achieving digital inclusion requires collective effort. The work we are doing at SAMENA Council to broaden the financial base for broadband development is vital for ensuring that the benefits of digital transformation reach everyone, especially in underserved regions,” Ba concluded.
About SAMENA Council
SAMENA Telecommunications Council is an industry association representing telecom operators, manufacturers, regulators, and other stakeholders in South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa (SA-ME-NA). SAMENA Council is dedicated to advancing digital development by fostering cross-border cooperation, encouraging innovation, and advocating for policy frameworks that promote digital inclusion and transformation.
For further information, please contact: www.samenacouncil.org
Source: Press Release