Mauritius shows the digital way, but will Africa listen?

What the report says

Delegates at the Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa (FIFAfrica) in Mauritius heard government officials present the island nation as a regional model for digital governance, infrastructure and public services. The Observer reported that Mauritian leaders highlighted the country’s strong rankings in areas such as cybersecurity, e-government and digital inclusion, while also acknowledging past mistakes, including the government’s decision to slow internet speeds and block social media during protests in November 2024.

Mauritius ICT Minister Dr Avinash Ramtohul said that move damaged trust and would not be repeated. He argued that constitutional protections, accountability and backup systems for essential services are central to the country’s approach. He also described efforts to expand digital access, protect children online and widen the use of e-services, including apps and data-sharing systems that streamline interactions between government, business and citizens.

The article says Mauritius has become an attractive destination for technology investment and is pushing plans under its Digital Mauritius 2030 strategy, with interest in areas such as AI, blockchain and the Internet of Things. Universities are expanding training in digital fields to address skills gaps. Beyond Mauritius, speakers at the forum used the example to raise broader questions about internet freedom, digital sovereignty and Africa’s limited AI capacity, arguing that stronger infrastructure, laws and continental cooperation are needed.