The National Broadband Policy 2012 – 2020 (NBP2012) sets out a strategic vision for a broadband Intelligent Mauritius, branded as “Towards i-Mauritius”, and establishes national goals regarding broadband while elaborating specific policies to achieve those goals within the overarching National ICT Strategic Plan (NICTSP) 2011-2014 context.

Presently, the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (ICTA) treats broadband transmission as a telecommunication service subject to the statutory requirements set forth under section 24 of the ICT Act 2001, as amended1. Internet Service Providers licensed by the ICTA are able to provide enhanced or information services classified in most cases as broadband Internet access services. As from the beginning of 2010, the concept of broadband worldwide has evolved from the realm of being a purely technology and service issue to the extent that it significantly affects how people live and work.

It is now viewed as a key driver of economic growth and national competitiveness2 since it can contribute to social and cultural development.

Countries, communities and individuals that lack easy access to broadband are believed to be in an unfavourable situation that they may miss economic and social opportunities. Broadband cities for example are reputed to attract more services firms and thus create more jobs than their narrowband counterparts.

Read the whole report