Digital infrastructure, particularly connectivity and computing power, has emerged as a crucial driver of socio-economic progress, as traditional infrastructure is not meeting the demands of societies in a world filled with technological advancements. Mr. Liang Hua, Chairman of the Board of Huawei said with the world grappling with the challenges of ensuring inclusive development, next-generation digital infrastructure is becoming as essential as its physical counterpart. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) indicates that, by the end of September 2023, nearly 2.6 billion people, about 33 per cent of the world's population, had never used the Internet. Most of these people, the ITU indicated, are from developing countries or underserved rural communities. Mr. Liang speaking at the 3rd Huawei Sustainability Forum advocated universal access as he asserted that stable connectivity is not only a fundamental right for every individual but also a cornerstone of the digital economy. He said while tra ditional infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power grids, had long been recognized as the backbone of economic growth and development, digital infrastructure is evolving to form the foundation of a sustainable and equitable society.? He said, 'Everyone should have access to stable connectivity. We see connectivity not just as a basic right for every person, but also as a cornerstone of the digital economy'. The Chairman underscored the centrality of connectivity in fostering a thriving society, emphasizing its role in simplifying daily routines, strengthening economies, and promoting environmental sustainability. ?He said 'connectivity plays an important role in every aspect of our lives. It makes our lives easier, our economies stronger, and our environment greener.' Mr. Liang said the importance of a potent computing infrastructure to accelerate digital and intelligent transformation across industries. ?'We need to build a stronger computing infrastructure to speed up digital and intelligent transformation across industries and integrate the development of the digital and real economies', he said. He said as the world moves towards the future, investing in next-generation infrastructure was no longer a choice, but a necessity. 'Prioritizing the development of a reinforced network infrastructure and strengthened computing capabilities will lay the foundation for a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for all,' he said. Source: Ghana News Agency