Arlington, VA – Today, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency awarded a grant to Malawian internet service provider Converged Technology Networks Limited (CTN) for a feasibility study to expand digital connectivity to underserved communities in Malawi. CTN selected California-based Connectivity Capital LLC to conduct the study. USTDA and CTN signed the grant agreement in a ceremony held at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit.
“Across Africa, USTDA works with partners such as CTN to bridge the digital divide and expand internet connections for unserved and underserved communities,” said Enoh T. Ebong, USTDA’s Director. “USTDA’s support for CTN’s project will help deploy innovative solutions that are specific to Malawi’s needs. Our goal is to expand affordable, secure, and reliable digital infrastructure in a manner that is inclusive and sustainable, in partnership with U.S. industry.”
USTDA’s feasibility study will assess the technical and economic viability of expanding internet connections in Malawi utilizing various fixed wireless and fiber access network technologies. The study will also explore the viability of utilizing open network architectures for fixed wireless.
“As one of the least connected countries in the world, Malawi needs innovative and bold approaches in order to bring the benefits of broadband to the masses. CTN is extremely thrilled to partner with USTDA and Connectivity Capital in bringing affordable broadband to all parts of Malawi,” said Brian Longwe, Chief Executive Officer of CTN.
This project supports Access Africa, USTDA’s initiative to support the development of inclusive, secure, and sustainable digital infrastructure across Africa; the U.S. government’s Prosper Africa initiative to substantially increase two-way trade and investment between the United States and Africa, and the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment.
Hosted by President Biden, the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit highlights how the United States and African nations are strengthening partnerships to advance shared priorities. The Summit reflects the U.S. Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, both of which emphasize the critical importance of the region to meet this era’s defining challenges.
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The U.S. Trade and Development Agency helps companies create U.S. jobs through the export of U.S. goods and services for priority infrastructure projects in emerging economies. USTDA links U.S. businesses to export opportunities by funding project preparation and partnership building activities that develop sustainable infrastructure and foster economic growth in partner countries.
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