AfricaConnect2 aims to support the development, consolidation and use of high-capacity national and regional research and education networks (NRENs) across Africa and set up connections to the pan-European GÉANT network, thus providing the African research and education (R&E) communities with unrivalled opportunities for global collaborations.
AfricaConnect2 builds on the achievements of its predecessor project – AfricaConnect – which, between 2011 and 2014, was instrumental in establishing UbuntuNet, a high-capacity data-communications network for research and education communities in Eastern and Southern Africa.
Northern African countries are currently connected to GÉANT thanks to the EUMEDCONNECT project which has provided a regional research and education network for the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean since 2004.
Based on a proven model of building and interconnecting NRENs in regional networks, AfricaConnect2 opens a new chapter in this African success story by extending the scope of its predecessor to a pan-African level.
Recognising the importance of building on the interests and consensus of local partners, the project adopts a modular approach adjusted to the specificities of the African sub-regions. AfricaConnect2 therefore comprises three geographical areas (clusters) and involves their respective regional networking organisations:
By improving access to high-capacity connectivity at national, regional and continental levels, AfricaConnect2 will contribute to socio-economic development and a more inclusive Information Society across Africa.
Whilst the connectivity boost will improve the lives of millions of Africans through advanced research and education, it will equally benefit collaborative scientific research the world over, in areas such as climate change, biodiversity, crop research, malaria and other infectious diseases.
Africa-EU Partnership
Europe and Africa share a vision for equal, strategic and long-term economic cooperation and sustainable development materialised in the Africa-EU Partnership.
In line with this Partnership and with the ICT for Development Strategy "Connecting Africa" included in the 2014-2017 Roadmap of the EU-Africa Summit, the European Commission recognises the role of e-infrastructures in:
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