Title: Making the case for digital connectivity for MSME’s: How improved take up and usage of digital connectivity, in particular for ecommerce, supports development objectives
Date: 07 December 2023
Time: 10H-11H30 CET
Host: Co-Chairs ITC and GSMA of the Working Group on Connectivity for MSMEs
The Broadband Commission Working Group on Connectivity for MSMEs, co-chaired by ITC and GSMA, convened at UNCTAD e-Week for an insightful meeting titled “Making the case for digital connectivity for MSMEs: How improved take up and usage of digital connectivity, especially for e-commerce, supports development objectives.” Participants were invited to expore the findings from the “Making Connectivity Work for MSMEs” report and engage with global stakeholders as we discuss the pivotal role of digital connectivity in empowering MSMEs.
Moderator: Mr. James Howe, Head Digital, Markets and Connectivity, ITC
Speakers:
- Mr. Alex Wong, Senior Advisor, Strategic Engagement and Initiatives – ITU
- Mr. Melle Tiel Groenestege, Sr. Director Digital Inclusion – GSMA
- Ms. Thelma Quaye, Chief Digital Infrastructure, Skills and Empowerment Officer – Smart Africa
- Ms. Cynthia Saab, Global Vice President for Digital Country Partnerships, MasterCard
For a full summary of the event, and access to additional resources, check out the Broadband Commission article.
About the Working Group on Connectivity for MSMEs
The Working Group seeks to identify the challenges and opportunities of getting more micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in low and middle income countries (LMICs) online and engaging in online trade. The outcome report, titled “Making Digital Connectivity Work for MSMEs,” introduces a five part framework and four core recommendations for all stakeholders to play their part in enabling MSME connectivity.
