Afghanistan Sees Surge in Mobile and Internet Usage Amid Infrastructure Focus

The Taliban Ministry of Communications has announced that there are currently 32 million SIM cards active in Afghanistan, with 17 million people using the internet. The ministry emphasizes the development of infrastructure and the importance of ensuring cybersecurity.

Increasing Internet Usage in Afghanistan

In a recent press conference, Enayatullah Alkozai, the spokesperson for the Taliban Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, presented new statistics revealing that approximately 32 million SIM cards are currently active in Afghanistan. Of these, nearly 17 million individuals are utilizing internet services.

He further noted that around 10 million people now have access to fourth-generation mobile services (4G), a significant increase from just over 2 million before the Taliban took control of the country. This surge indicates progress in the delivery of telecommunications and internet services in Afghanistan.

Focus on Infrastructure Expansion and Cybersecurity

Alkozai emphasized that improved coverage of telecommunications networks across various regions of the country has enabled a substantial portion of Afghanistan to access internet services. He believes that this expansion can facilitate new economic and social opportunities within the nation.

The Taliban Ministry of Communications and Information Technology prioritizes cybersecurity, aiming to regulate the online space and prevent the spread of unauthorized content. They assert that enhancing internet infrastructure could support the advancement of online services, digital communications, and remote education.

Challenges in Internet Access

However, experts stress that the actual accessibility of users to the internet and the quality of services provided in different areas are key factors in evaluating the state of digital communications in Afghanistan. The rising internet usage in the country is considered a crucial element for the growth of digital services.