In today’s digitally connected world, the idea of living without internet access seems almost impossible. We rely on the internet for everything — from communication to entertainment, education, and even daily financial transactions. However, one country stands apart from the global web: Eritrea. This East African nation remains largely disconnected, with extremely limited internet access, no mobile data, and virtually no social media or ATM facilities for its citizens. Explore why Eritrea remains the only country with no easy access to the internet and what this means for its people.
Eritrea’s lack of mobile internet and broadband restricts digital growth and technology access
Located in the Horn of Africa, Eritrea is a small country bordering Djibouti, Sudan, and Ethiopia, with its capital at Asmara near the Red Sea. Despite technological advances worldwide, Eritrea’s citizens cannot access mobile internet or use home broadband connections. Unlike most nations, where mobile data is ubiquitous, Eritrea offers no mobile internet service at all.According to reports, only about 1% of the population has ever accessed the internet, and this limited access happens primarily in a handful of internet cafes scattered across urban areas. Even then, the connection speed is dismal often slower than 2G making internet usage frustratingly slow and unreliable.
Eritrea internet scarcity: How political control and poverty restrict access
Source: BBC
Eritrea’s internet scarcity stems largely from its political and economic context. The country is known for its strict authoritarian regime, often dubbed the “North Korea of Africa.” A key feature of Eritrea’s governance is compulsory military service for its citizens, which affects daily life and limits freedoms, including digital access.The government tightly controls telecommunications infrastructure and access, citing national security and social control. This has led to the near-complete absence of mobile data networks, limiting internet connectivity options to a few cafes that offer Wi-Fi at a high cost.Economically, Eritrea faces significant challenges. Many citizens cannot afford the fees charged by internet cafes, which reportedly cost about 100 Eritrean nakfa (roughly Rs 100) for an hour of access. This is a substantial expense in a country where the average income is low, making the internet a luxury few can afford.
Impact of no internet on Eritrea’s society and development
Lack of internet access severely affects Eritrea’s social, educational, and economic development. In today’s world, internet connectivity is critical for:
- Education: Online resources, virtual learning, and global knowledge sharing are virtually inaccessible to most Eritreans.
- Communication: Social media and messaging apps, essential for personal and professional communication globally, are largely unavailable.
- Economic growth: Without mobile payments, digital banking, or access to global markets, entrepreneurship and commerce remain stunted.
- Information flow: Access to global news, healthcare information, and government transparency is limited, which can exacerbate isolation and misinformation.
The digital divide thus perpetuates Eritrea’s socio-economic challenges, making it harder for the country to keep pace with global advancements.
How Eritrea compares with other countries in internet access
While Eritrea stands as the only country with such severe internet restrictions, many developing nations still struggle with low connectivity and affordability. However, most countries at least offer basic mobile data services, and social media platforms are widely accessible.Eritrea’s unique situation highlights the importance of internet freedom as a fundamental driver of modern development and the risks posed when governments restrict digital access.
Future of internet access in Eritrea: Challenges and possibilities
Increasing global attention on digital rights and connectivity might one day help improve access in Eritrea. International organizations and activists often call for greater internet freedom, which could potentially influence reforms. However, any progress must overcome significant political and economic hurdles, including government control, infrastructure limitations, and poverty. Until then, Eritrea remains a rare example of a nation largely disconnected from the digital world.Also Read | Meet Mumbai-born Reshma Kewalramani who joins the 100 Most Powerful People in Business 2025 alongside Mukesh Ambani, Sundar Pichai, and others
