Only half of the people today are in a position to access the internet. Many use their mobile phones to reach a range of life-enhancing online services in areas such as healthcare, skills and education, finance and jobs, as well as information and entertainment. Three-quarters of the digital divide is not a coverage issue. The digital divide is far from being only a technology or connectivity issue due but also the "usage gap" which is a strong reminder of the social, cultural, and generational divides in our societies.

• Affordability: The cost of handsets, energy, and data is still too high for some populations. While low-cost solutions are improving for handsets as they are for solar-energy kits and networks, further collaboration by all stakeholders and governments remains essential to lower barriers and facilitate access for all.
• Lack of digital skills and literacy: The remaining unconnected population is disproportionately illiterate or has low levels of literacy. The digital transformation of our societies brings more opportunities for the connected but makes digital illiteracy the new frontier of inclusion.
• Local Content: Lack of content in local languages represents a major issue to our communities. Content and services must be relevant to citizens and meet their needs.
• Socio-cultural constraints: A good number of our communities are locked out of the digital landscape due to traditional cultural practices that create bias against civilization and technology.