Bridging the digital divide According to the regulators, by the end of Q1 2023, Colombia had 9 million fixed broadband connections, which means that only approx. 61% of households in Colombia have access to fixed broadband. Highlighting Colombia’s digital divide, speakers at the summit emphasized the need to address challenges Colombians have such as lack of technical skills and connectivity. The government, telecom operators and regulatory bodies discussed strategies to increase broadband penetration, provide training to Colombians, involve regional stakeholders in the sector decision-making, and improve job formalization. The focus was on leveraging technology to narrow the digital divide and ensure equal access to digital opportunities. “Centros Digitales” at the core of the solution to bridge the digital divide. MinTic aims to reach 85% broadband penetration by 2031 compared to 61% in Q1 2023.

5G and connectivity expansion The potential of 5G technology and its impact on various sectors were essential discussion topics at the event. Telecom operators ETB and Claro shared their plans to leverage 5G to enhance verticals like education, mobility, and B2B services. Investments in broadband and 4G were also emphasized as ongoing priorities alongside the imminent 5G auction. The discussions also recognized the need to focus on network coverage and connectivity expansion, ensuring that before the widespread adoption of 5G. Main 5G verticals to be developed in Colombia, including a $166 billion opportunity until 2035 as per Hugo Chang at Nokia.

Security and digital transformation

During 2022 there were 20 billion failed cyberattacks in Colombia as disclosed by a Fortinet study, based on that government officials and telecom operators highlighted the importance of cybersecurity for the industry. Panel discussions emphasized the need for a national entity to coordinate carrier efforts and use artificial intelligence (AI) as a defensive tool. Besides, the event explored the concept of digital transformation within telecom companies, with discussions revolving around employee training, customer experience and the transformation of big data into "mega data" facilitated by 5G. The role of alternative revenue drivers such as VoLTE and MVNO products were also highlighted as options before the 5G benefits come to play.