Huawei & AICTO host 1st Africa 5G Summit

The first Africa 5G Summit, with the subject “5G Lighting Up Digital Africa,” was held in Bangkok, Thailand, and was hosted by Huawei and backed by the Tunisian-based Arab ICT Organisation (AICTO), which intends to develop a communication platform between Africa and the world’s major 5G markets.

In order to support the steady growth of 5G and the acceleration of the digital economy, ICT industry organisations, government regulators, and carriers were invited to gather at this summit to share experiences and exchange viewpoints on key topics such as “National 5G strategic planning, Carriers’ 5G business practises, and the strategy of 4G/5G collaborative network evolution.”

In his inaugural statement, Yang Chaobin, President of Huawei ICT Products and Solutions, stated that 5G provides a fiber-like user experience by providing 10 times faster speed than 4G, which would transform the development of the ICT industry. In the early stages of 5G development, adequate spectrum supplies and supportive regulatory frameworks are important.

The digital economy, according to Mr. Mohamed Ben Amor, Secretary General of the AICTO, has become an important pillar of national economic development. As the foundation of national digital transformation, 5G is becoming increasingly important in fostering national economic and social growth.

Faced with the prospects and challenges of 5G development, AICTO will continue to work with ICT industry partners in the Arab and African areas to successfully support regional digital transformation.

Mr. Coulibaly Yacouba, CEO of Cote d’Ivoire Spectrum Authority AIGF, stated in his keynote speech that Cote d’Ivoire is aggressively embracing the arrival of the 5G era. The government and local operators are preparing extensively for the commercial introduction of 5G in the country.

During the next Africa Cup of Nations, people are expected to be able to enjoy the ultimate service experience provided by revolutionary 5G technology in Cote d’Ivoire.

Benjamin Hou, President of Huawei Northern Africa Carrier Business, gave the keynote address “As the third wave of global 5G market, Africa will open the 5G era in 2023.”

“Huawei will further increase its investment in Africa to support the steady development of 5G to facilitate digital transformation in the region. In Africa, for Africa, Huawei will continue to deepen cooperation with industry partners to support customers’ business success in the 5G era.” Hou further stated.