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21 July 2025 – New York: According to a report on Africa’s development discussed at the General Assembly, digital innovation and technology remain underdeveloped across several regions in the continent.
In 2024, just 34% of women and 45% of men on the African continent use the internet, compared to global averages of 65% and 70%, respectively. 98% of Africans under the age of 18 reportedly do not complete school with basic science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills, highlighting the long-term underinvestment in education.
The UNGA report cited that the lack of progress in digital integration and STEM education is hurting Africa’s ability to reach the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the desired 2030. Called the “digital divide,” marginalized groups, such as women and rural areas, are being hit the hardest.
Youth have the potential to bridge this divide. By 2050, Africa will be home to an estimated 850 million young people, presenting an opportunity to fortify digital infrastructure and invest in STEM education.
Still, current systems must be improved upon, as they do not currently have the means to support young innovators. Across Africa, roughly three-fourths of young people lack basic protections and secure employment.
This, according to the UNGA report, is an issue that is part of an even larger gap in labour rights. In 2023, only 19% of people in Africa had access to at least one form of social protection, like health insurance, compared to 53% annually.
Speakers at the General Assembly stressed the importance of African leadership in the process, emphasizing the knowledge and historical context that can be applied to strengthen development efforts. In addition, the report calls on governments and partners to establish a people-centered approach that encourages digital and technological innovation while still maintaining decent work, rights, and intellectual property.
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