** Democratic Republic of Congo: an in-depth look at the quality of digital life and its socio-economic implications **
The recent publication of the “Digital Quality of Life Index 2024” classification by the Surfshark company offers an overview of digital disparities on the African continent, placing the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to a disturbing 25th position, just behind Mozambique. This observation raises essential questions about the economic, social and political impacts of this situation, not only for the country itself, but also for the whole continent.
** Figures that speak: the DRC in digital turmoil **
The index created by Surfshark is based on fourteen indicators, revealing financial accessibility to the Internet, the quality of the connection and the state of digital infrastructure as critical pillars. In a world where the digital aspect is increasingly defining the quality of life, the stagnation of the DRC in this ranking since the previous edition is alarming. This illustrates a reality where the potential of one billion Congolese is struggling to free himself from the chains of digital underdevelopment.
To put these elements in perspective, let us observe that South Africa, which occupies the first place on the continent, creates a striking contrast with the DRC. With a fixed internet connection speed reaching 79.28 Mbps, it is ahead, despite criticism of its infrastructure, in particular with regard to the quality of the connection. The difference is widening more when considering that countries like Morocco, in the 69th place in the world, derive more from digital technologies to stimulate their development.
** The repercussions on economic and social development **
Limited access and poor digital quality can directly affect economic growth. In a context where companies worthy of the name are digitized and in innovation is king, the stagnation of the DRC suggests a future where the country risks missing crucial development opportunities. Young people, who constitute 70 % of the Congolese population, are thus found in a paradox where their digital potential is too often unexplored.
The implications for education are also critical. While the world is becoming more and more interconnected, Congolese students – in particular those of rural areas that suffer from limited access to infrastructure – are struggling to access online educational resources and training opportunities. On the other hand, the countries that are progressing, like Angola, which has won 18 places in the ranking, demonstrate that strategic measures can promote digital advancement.
** Secure the future: the importance of an integrated digital strategy **
It is imperative that the Congolese government will take significant measures to reverse this worrying trend. By developing an integrated digital strategy, which not only includes improving internet access but also training young people in digital skills, a promising future would take shape. This could not only improve the quality of life of the Congolese, but also pave the way for a better investment climate, thus attracting entrepreneurs and companies in the technological sector.
In addition, international cooperation and partnerships with countries with advanced digital skills could be crucial. In terms of technological education, initiatives engaged with African nations such as Kenya, despite its decline in the index, can offer constructive skills.
** Conclusion: A call for collective action for a shared digital future **
While we continue to live an era where digital technologies shape our daily lives, it is essential to be aware of the implications of a defective digital life. For the DRC, the challenge is to get out of this dead end and transform current stagnation into a catch -up opportunity. This will require a strong political will, targeted investments and active involvement of all the actors concerned, both national and international.
In the end, the quality of digital life index is not only a figure: it is a reflection of the potential, aspirations and current challenges of a nation wishing to thrive in an increasingly digital world . Fatshimetrie.org and other media actors will play a crucial role by maintaining this living conversation and informing the public of future developments. The stakes are too important to be ignored.