The Angolan government, led by the MPLA party, has stated that it is "inaceptable" for the digital transformation to create exclusion in the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), where millions of citizens still lack regular internet access. The government is advocating for investments in infrastructure to reduce inequalities. This statement was made by the Secretary of State for Social Communication, Nuno Caldas, at the opening of the 5th Lusophone Internet Governance Forum (FLGI) in Luanda.
According to Nuno Caldas, despite technological advancements in the CPLP, significant challenges persist. Millions of citizens lack regular and quality internet access, and in many communities, especially rural areas, the cost of telecommunications equipment limits full participation in the digital society. He emphasized that reducing this inequality requires consistent investments in infrastructure, broadband expansion, electrification, digital literacy, and competency development.
Nuno Caldas also stressed the need for special attention to children, young people, and women in the Lusophone space, ensuring they have access, training, and security in the digital environment. He highlighted that young people represent the greatest creative force in CPLP countries and should be prepared not only to consume technology but also to develop solutions, create companies, and actively participate in the digital economy.
The Angolan government's concerns about digital development and its challenges, such as digital inclusion, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, digital literacy, and access to Portuguese-language content, were also emphasized. Nuno Caldas noted that CPLP countries have a particular responsibility to ensure that the Portuguese language has a strong, diversified, and relevant presence on the internet, serving not only as a language of communication but also of knowledge.
The 5th edition of the FLGI, taking place in Luanda, was highlighted as an important event by André Pedro, Director-General of the National Institute for the Promotion of the Information Society in Angola. The forum aims to address global challenges and specificities of CPLP countries, including infrastructure, language, and lusophone diversity. Topics such as connectivity, digital infrastructure development, and the challenges and opportunities of children and adolescents on the internet are on the agenda.
Meanwhile, a recent report by the National Institute of Statistics (INE) of Angola revealed that almost three in four Angolans faced difficulties accessing food in 2023, with a prevalence of food insecurity of 74.6%. The report, developed in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, showed that the prevalence of moderate or severe food insecurity in Angola peaked in 2021 at around 82% and decreased to 74.6% in 2023.
The INE report also highlighted regional disparities, with the Lunda Norte province having the highest prevalence of severe food insecurity, while Luanda had a relatively lower prevalence of 12%. The report's findings will help evaluate public policies aimed at combating hunger and support the development of programs to address food insecurity in Angola.
Key points
- The Angolan government considers lack of internet access "inaceptable" amid high levels of food insecurity.
