Revolutionizing any industry is a critical step in developing a competitive sector. Being forward-thinking can improve changes for massive growth.

Globally, the telecommunication industry is booming, and is significantly growing through innovative technologies. In this regard, the digital economy is rapidly taking over the ecosystem to solve challenges effectively, serve the people, and create end-to-end benefits for success.

Leading the revolution are broadband technology penetration, virtual reality platforms like metaverse, and 5G internet services, which have helped in connecting communities with stable and efficient network connections while increasing many sources of livelihood.

In this article, having observed the industry changing patterns closely, we highlight four (4) ways West Africa can revolutionize the telecommunications sector.

1. Strong Internet:

Nowadays, data moves on hyper-speed signals, and West Africa can not rely on 2G and 3G Internet, where the network is usually interrupted and uncertain.

West Africa has to upgrade fully to 4G and 5G internet services through 4G/5G underground fiber optics and satellite communication for easy access to steady WiFi and a network with fast data for any digital service. It will enable high-performance remote working for West African operators and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to operate their businesses efficiently (E-commerce, Fintech, Online banking) online.

To shape the sector, adapting to this will bring in an infrastructure market with affordable 4G and 5G smartphones to be more in circulation in the market and reduce the dependency on the 2G/3G slow network services.

Strong internet and cloud computing can help West African internet users experience stable and smooth conference calls on Zoom or any app with other virtual reality features. On the virtual platform, collaborations can take place for global opportunities.

2. Big Data:

Studying the vast amount of big data West Africa generates can help the sub-region stay ahead of competitors. Big data is a crucial factor harnessed in creating new products, services, and wild imaginations because it keeps useful tabs on fast-moving customers’ needs and the types of service they are attracted to.

Big Data is a qualitative step that companies worldwide have amassed huge benefits from because they analyze the data and trends of user preferences. They check experiences on their platform and network circles from anywhere globally to make informed decisions and create artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

Through big data, telcos and tech companies continue to track the next Internet of Things while using the data and machine language (ML) algorithm for the timing of product introduction into the market with newly added features.

This drive will enhance user experience while keeping regular and potential users updated. Using this drive will accurately shape West Africa’s telecommunications sector for unprecedented growth.

Big data is one reason new versions of phones, laptops, tablets, and others usually come with new features for advanced human interface. Examples are the quality of 3D/pixel cameras, metaverse co-creation and participation, increased storage capacity and cloud storage, battery life resilience, operating system upgrades, syncing systems, new apps, and other features because they put big data to good use.

3. Infrastructure tools:

The agility of West African telcos in using new tools and infrastructure, like the PaaS system (payment as a service), will help their companies develop and build innovative messaging and joint platforms for their users. The PaaS is a great way to optimize the use of digital technology. When integrated by West African telcos, it will focus on giving telecommunication operators the best services unique to their needs.

The PaaS system supports and brightens user experience through quick messaging platforms, file sharing, voice and video calling. It is particularly available on different mobile gadgets.

Finally, it can hasten and improve the increase in quality of West Africa’s Internet of Things (IoT) services. It can also give vital options for businesses and companies to thrive. Finally, the PaaS system can securely protect customers’ data and privacy.

4. Other technologies:

Blockchain competitively took the world by storm in 2021. Blockchain technologies and Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are unique technologies that help protect transactions, sign smart contracts, get receipts and invoices, and receive secured payments.

Currently, many fintech companies in West Africa use these technologies to potentially raise revenue, advance business models, and give quality services.

In conclusion, West Africa is a powerhouse that can immerse itself in these crucial revolutionary technologies. However, substantial investments are necessary to achieve all these milestones.