Colombia’s Ministry of Information Technologies and Communications (MinTIC) has warned that over 188,000 households face potential internet disconnection if the incoming administration fails to maintain current rural connectivity programs. Outgoing Minister Carina Murcia highlighted the risk during the government transition process, emphasizing that initiatives like "Juntas de Internet" and "Conectividad para Cambiar Vidas" are essential for bridging the digital divide in historically underserved regions.
Risk to Rural Connectivity Programs
The Ministry’s transition report identifies specific programs that are currently providing essential "last mile" connectivity where traditional commercial operators often lack presence. According to the MinTIC, the "Juntas de Internet" program, which empowers community-led action groups to manage local service, risks leaving more than 18,000 households and 400 zones without access if funding and support are withdrawn.
Additionally, the "Conectividad para Cambiar Vidas" project, managed in partnership with Internexa, faces potential suspension. The Ministry estimates that discontinuing this initiative would impact more than 170,000 households across multiple departments. Minister Murcia urged the incoming government to prioritize these projects to prevent a regression in digital inclusion, specifically noting the importance of maintaining the 900 MHz band allocation for regional operators to bolster 4G coverage.
Connectivity Gains Between 2022 and 2026
The current administration reports significant growth in national digital infrastructure over the last four years.
Rural areas saw the most significant progress, with connectivity rates climbing from a minority to more than half of the households. Furthermore, the Ministry reported that over 19,000 rural educational institutions were connected, benefiting many students. These infrastructure efforts were complemented by:
- Digital Skills Training: Over one million citizens received training in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, and programming.
- Educational Hardware: Through the "Computadores para Educar" program, millions of students received access to computers and innovation labs.
- Technological Modernization: The administration oversaw the rollout of 5G technology and the deployment of approximately 6,000 kilometers of new fiber optic cable.
Strategic Policy and Future Infrastructure
Beyond immediate connectivity, the government established a long-term national policy for Artificial Intelligence, featuring over 100 strategic actions projected through 2030. This includes the creation of three specialized AI centers and the integration of AI tools across 160 municipalities to assist in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and public security.
The Ministry also confirmed that the financing for the Amazon fiber optic project remains secured. This strategic infrastructure is designed to provide high-speed internet to many households in the Amazon region. Minister Murcia’s final assessment underscored that these advancements have created a more robust digital sector, provided the incoming administration continues the current trajectory of regional investment and community-led digital management.