Colombia national fixed connectivity with emphasis on fixed broadband solutions for households, companies, and public-government institutions

Introduction

Despite significant strides in the digitalisation process since 2004, such as the rollout of mobile communication networks and sectoral policies for the widespread use of the internet, there remain significant internal gaps in digital connectivity in Colombia. These gaps become evident when compared with advanced economies and leading countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, and even when comparing urban to the most remote rural areas within the country.

Objectives

This project aims to provide information, data and recommendations to inform new public policies and investment projects in telecommunications infrastructure. It focuses on peri-urban, rural and hard-to-reach areas in Colombia, which require government support to develop sustainable and inclusive programmes.

The project contributes to the Colombian Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies National Digital Connectivity Plan and is aligned with the EU-LAC Global Gateway Investment Agenda and Digital Economy Package. It is helping Colombia improve digital inclusion and further integrate into the global digital ecosystem.

Project activities

CAF is conducting a study to measure the connectivity gap. It is complemented by European Union funds to structure pilots benefiting the most vulnerable and remote populations. Europe’s contribution supports:

• Workshops in 10 departments of the country to advance potential proposals for implementation projects alongside local actors;
• Structuring the projects’ feasibility based on the results of the workshops, including Environmental and Social Impact Assessment studies;
• Implementing at least four pilot projects to test new technologies, business cases and meaningful connectivity strategies in four territories in remote areas;
• Evaluating different project financing options;
• Conducting digital skills trainings in 10 departments with a focus on vulnerable populations and on gender and human rights.

Results

The project aims to:

• Turn the Internet and digital technologies into an instrument of social transformation;
• Deploy infrastructure to improve the country's digital connectivity through various mechanisms, including joint investment between the state and private actors;
• Promote competition in the provision of telecommunications services for the benefit of citizens;
• Promote the elimination of barriers by territorial entities for the deployment of telecommunications networks;
• Strengthen small telecommunications service providers in order to contribute to the closure of the digital divide.

Implementing partner

Development Bank of Latin America (CAF)

Co-implementing partners

European Investment Bank (EIB)