The International Telecommunication
Union’s World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC) concluded in
Baku, Azerbaijan, with a resounding call for nations to accelerate universal,
meaningful, and affordable connectivity as a foundation for inclusive and
sustainable digital growth. The high-level gathering, attended by government
delegations, policy leaders, and technology experts from across the world,
underscored that access to reliable digital infrastructure is now a
prerequisite for economic competitiveness, social participation, and national
development.
Centered on the theme “Universal,
Meaningful, and Affordable Connectivity for an Inclusive and Sustainable
Digital Future,” the conference highlighted widening digital inequalities and
urged countries, particularly in emerging markets, to adopt bold strategies
that lower broadband costs, expand network coverage, and strengthen the
resilience of critical communications systems. Stakeholders stressed that
connectivity must go beyond mere availability and must translate into real,
equitable access that empowers people, businesses, and institutions.
Amongst Ghana’s Representation at
the summit was network engineer Joy Selasi Agbesi, whose participation
attracted attention due to his parallel influence in advanced AI-driven network
systems in the United States and large-scale connectivity initiatives across
Africa. Selasi, currently serving as a Network Engineer in Global Operations
with one of the United States’ leading technology companies, has contributed to
the development of hyperscale artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure
supporting next-generation digital platforms. His work includes supporting
high-capacity data center networks and advanced compute environments, now
widely regarded as critical foundations of global digital transformation.
In addition to his impact across
North America, Selasi remains deeply committed to advancing Africa’s
telecommunications and network infrastructure. As a Network Consultant for MTN,
he has played a pivotal role in strengthening Ghana’s national backbone systems,
including engineering work supporting Capacity Provisioning readiness for
MTN/Bayobab, one of the consortium members behind the 2Africa subsea cable, the
world’s longest open-access cable system. Once fully operational, 2Africa is
expected to massively expand international bandwidth, reduce broadband costs,
and enhance network reliability for millions of users across Africa, Europe,
the Middle East, and Asia. Observers at the conference noted that this kind of
cross-continental expertise positions Selasi as part of a small but impactful
group of African technologists shaping the architecture of modern global
connectivity.
Selasi’s background also includes
engineering roles with Huawei Technologies, where he contributed to DWDM, OTN,
and IP network deployments in West Africa, projects that helped strengthen
broadband availability and national digital infrastructure. Beyond industry
work, he has authored more than sixteen research papers on cybersecurity,
cryptography, artificial intelligence, machine learning, optical networks, and
IP systems, reflecting a scholarly commitment to secure, intelligent, and
scalable network design. His standing in the global engineering community is
further underscored by his Senior Membership in IEEE, the world’s largest and
most prestigious technical professional organization dedicated to advancing
technology for humanity, and his service as a peer reviewer for Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Association for Computing
Machinery (ACM), Elsevier, Information Systems Audit and Control Association
(ISACA), and the European Conference on Information Systems 2026 (ECIS26 – AIS)
roles typically reserved for recognized subject-matter experts trusted to
evaluate high-impact research.
Discussions in Baku emphasized that
for countries like Ghana, universal connectivity can no longer be treated as a
long-term aspiration but as an urgent national priority. Delegates referenced
the growing demands placed on networks by cloud computing, digital services,
and emerging AI applications, noting that without strong backbone
infrastructure, developing economies risk falling further behind. The debates
also highlighted the importance of security and resilience, with experts
warning that as digital dependence increases, so too does vulnerability to
cyber threats and service disruptions.
As the WTDC ended, the overarching
message was clear: meaningful and affordable connectivity is no longer a
privilege but a developmental necessity. The outcomes of the conference
signaled that Africa has an opportunity not only to benefit from global infrastructure
advances, but to contribute to them through its emerging technical talent and
growing participation in international policy forums. With experts like Selasi
positioned at the intersection of global innovation and African development,
Ghana enters the next chapter of digital transformation with a stronger voice
and a clearer mandate.
Labi Ansah-Koi, B.A.; M.Sc (Ghana),
is a Ghana-based professional with a strong focus on technology, data, and
innovation. He studied Information Systems and E-Procurement at the University
of Ghana Business School and has applied his expertise in analytics, digital
platforms, and e-commerce projects, including leading logistics and procurement
operations for Accrashopper.com. . Labi has contributed to ERP system
integration, data visualization, and digital vendor engagement strategies,
while also serving as a guest panelist on youth-oriented tech and current
affairs programs. He writes on STEM-related professionals under 40 who are
making waves, reflecting his passion for showcasing emerging talent and
advancing Africa’s digital future.
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