In a pivotal discussion at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Kigali 2025, telecom expert Lohini Moodley, who serves as a partner at Oliver Wyman, offered insightful perspectives on the evolving landscape of 5G technology in Africa. In her talk with Africazine’s Editor Paula Gilbert, Moodley painted a picture of both the challenges and the promising opportunities awaiting the continent in the telecom sector.
While it’s clear that 5G technology is still in its relative infancy with development primarily concentrated in affluent urban areas, Moodley highlighted an encouraging shift towards more inclusive solutions like fixed wireless access (FWA) and community Wi-Fi initiatives. These strategies are designed to bridge the existing digital divide, ensuring that those in underserved and rural communities can also experience the benefits of high-speed internet connectivity.
Moodley stressed that to unlock the full potential of 5G, innovative business models must be explored. This includes infrastructure sharing among telecom operators and the implementation of government subsidies aimed at making this advanced technology more accessible. By prioritizing these approaches, Africa could see a leap forward in connectivity, fostering economic growth and technological advancement even in regions that have traditionally lagged behind.
Further enriching her presentation, Moodley emphasized the significance of identifying enterprise use cases for 5G, which could revolutionize sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education. She advocated for a sustainable approach, calling for the integration of renewable energy sources into telecommunications infrastructure to enhance connectivity while being mindful of environmental concerns.
Another cornerstone of her discussion revolved around the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the telecom space. AI can streamline processes such as network planning, management, and maintenance, leading to a more efficient deployment of resources.
As Africa forges ahead into this new digital era, the insights shared by Lohini Moodley at MWC Kigali 2025 underscore the potential that lies in united efforts to enhance connectivity across the continent. The collaboration of governments, private sectors, and local communities will be essential in harnessing the capabilities of 5G technology for all.
Tags: #TechNews #WorldNews #Africa #Connectivity #5G #SustainableDevelopment #ArtificialIntelligence


