Rabat – Morocco has topped the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) Digital Development Index (IDI) for 2023, with a score of 85.1. This score exceeds the global average of 72.8, as well as the African average of 47.4.
The IDI is a composite index that measures a country’s level of development in the information and communication technologies (ICT) sector. It takes into account a range of factors, including the availability of ICT infrastructure, the use of ICT by individuals and businesses, and the impact of ICT on society.
The report highlights a noteworthy trend, revealing that among the top 10 economies with IDI scores exceeding 95, four belong to Arab states, three to Europe (Denmark, Estonia, Finland), two to the Asia-Pacific region, and one to the Americas.
Leading the charge, Morocco excels in the “Individuals Using the Internet” category, surpassing the global average of 70.5% with an outstanding rate of 92.8%.
Additionally, when it comes to “Households with Home Internet Access” and “3G/4G Coverage,” where global averages stand at 70.8% and 92.5% respectively, Morocco maintains a robust position with rates of 90.7% and 99.2%.
Furthermore, within the Asia-Pacific group, a considerable 69-point gap separates the highest-performing country (98.4) from the least performing (28.9). Interestingly, out of the 33 African economies assessed by the IDI, 25 receive scores below 50 points, underscoring the need for continued development in the region.
The IDI assesses two types of connectivity: universal and meaningful. Universal connectivity considers the connectivity of individuals, households, and communities, regardless of their urban or rural setting, gender, or educational level.
Conversely, meaningful connectivity relies on various factors known as “connectivity enablers.” These include infrastructure, financial accessibility, devices, skills, safety, and security, all playing pivotal roles in enhancing connectivity.
