MTN Group has announced the introduction of CHASE, a new
programme aimed at accelerating digital connectivity across Africa.
MTN has outlined a clear plan to ensure that everyone in the
markets may enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life, as part of its
strategic purpose – Ambition 2025: Leading digital solutions for Africa’s
prosperity. This is dubbed ‘CHASE’ by MTN. The first step is to expand
broadband coverage (the ‘c’ in CHASE).
In a statement by the MTN, it says “people who are connected
are ultimately empowered. It follows that the digital inclusion of
traditionally marginalised groups – those in rural areas, as well as the
elderly, women and the youth – is a key to broader socioeconomic development.”
Enzo Scarcella of Consumer Executive, MTN Group said
“providing a quality broadband network is essential, but not enough: there are
various other interventions required to make sure that no-one is left behind.
People also need 3G-enabled handsets; affordable data; relevant service
offerings; as well as education to equip them with the skills to make the most
of all that the mobile internet has to offer.
“CHASE clearly defines the work that we need to do, and
helps keep everyone at MTN focused. No one must get left behind, regardless of
their location, age or socio-economic standing.”
When all of these aspects are in place, adoption skyrockets
– as evidenced by the findings of a research conducted in Zambia, where MTN’s
partner AMN is assisting us in bringing internet to more people in rural areas.
The study evaluated the effects of various interventions in six ‘ultra-rural’
villages against a control group of six villages, all of which had 3G networks.
It was discovered that by implementing the interventions –
which are matched to each of the elements of MTN’s CHASE framework – more new
customers were brought online, and their data use climbed dramatically,
reaching three times that of the control villages.