Access to the Internet is considered by some governments, such as those of Egypt and Mali, as a key incentive for foreign investment.

In Egypt, telecommunications are advanced, with wireless local loops and two GSM companies in competition.

In sub-Saharan Africa, mobile technologies are moving to offer faster solutions. Although problems of cost and return on investment persist, markets for new technologies are growing much faster than for 'classic' lines. Other factors to consider with regard to infrastructure include the reliability of power supplies, and exploring the use of alternative sources of energy (e.g. solar energy).

In spite of the heavy investment costs of next-generation networks, and the still un-recovered costs of investing in their existing infrastructure, is it worth it for developing countries to 'leap-frog' technology?

(Reporting: Michel Borgeon, ITC)