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Government Aims for Free Internet Access in Every Home

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Government Aims for Free Internet Access in Every Home
Image source: Defi Media

The Mauritian government, led by Minister Avinash Ramtohul, is preparing to initiate talks with the country’s three major mobile network operators regarding a significant new initiative: providing free internet access to every household. This plan, a key promise from the Alliance du Changement’s electoral manifesto, aims to foster an autonomous and future-oriented population.

The financial implications of this ambitious project are substantial, with an estimated cost of nearly Rs 4.8 billion annually to the state.

With approximately 350,000 households expected to benefit from the service, the monthly expenditure could reach around Rs 350 million, based on a conservative estimate of Rs 1,000 per household subscription. Speaking to Le Dimanche/L’Hebdo, Minister Ramtohul acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge ahead.

“We are in the preparation and planning phase. Our priority is to devise a sustainable and inclusive model for free internet that will empower our citizens,” he stated.

Details of the implementation are still being formulated.

The upcoming negotiations aim to find a balance between ambition and practicality. Minister Ramtohul emphasized that the initiative should unite rather than divide the population, highlighting the importance of inclusivity to ensure broad societal benefits.

However, alongside the direct financial costs, the issue of infrastructure must also be addressed.

The anticipated surge in demand for connectivity will likely require substantial investments from operators to enhance their networks; the source of funding for these technical upgrades remains unclear.

A critical question yet to be resolved is who will bear these additional costs.

For Minister Ramtohul, the implications of this initiative go beyond mere economics.

He views free internet access as a vital tool for bridging the digital divide and promoting equal opportunities.

“In a world increasingly reliant on digital tools for education, employment, and communication, access to the internet has become a social equity issue,” he remarked.

The stakes are high.

Should this project succeed, it could stand as a significant achievement for the government of the Alliance du Changement.

Ramtohul expressed confidence in their plans: “We will fulfill this promise. We are taking the necessary time to ensure a successful implementation that will benefit everyone.”

Mobile ID: The Cornerstone of Digital Governance

At the heart of the government’s ambitious digital transformation project lies the Mobile ID, poised to be a key enabler.

Designed to usher the nation into a new digital age, the Mobile ID aims to streamline interactions between citizens and the government while ensuring robust security measures and compliance with existing laws.

Project officials assert that the Mobile ID will serve as much more than a simple technological tool—it will form the foundation of a digital government, enhancing public services and making them more accessible.

“As a responsible government, our actions are informed by a clear vision for the future. The Mobile ID will be central to this digitization process,” they stated.

This tool promises not only to accelerate digital transition but also to bolster citizens’ trust in digital services, thanks to high standards of security and data protection.

As Mauritius moves toward this transformative initiative, the potential for improved governance and enhanced citizen engagement through technology appears promising.

Source: Defi Media

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