IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja Acknowleges Slow Internet Speeds; To Be Improved Through Fiberasation Policy and Introduction of 5G Techology
Minister of State for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has acknowledged Pakistan’s slow internet speeds and said that they would be improved through the implementation of a policy for fiberasation and through the introduction of 5G.
Speaking at the National Broadband Network Forum in Islamabad, the minister emphasized that the implementation of the National Fiberisation Policy and the introduction upcoming launch of 5G technology would significantly enhance internet connectivity nationwide. She confirmed that the auction for the 5G spectrum is scheduled for April 2025, alongside efforts underway to bolster the existing 4G infrastructure.
“The internet speed in Pakistan is low, but with fiberisation and the introduction of 5G, the situation will improve significantly,” the IT minister said.
Fatima also announced the formation of the National Digital Commission which will provide five-year roadmap for digital development in Pakistan. She expressed confidence in bipartisan support for the passage of the Digital Pakistan Bill, which will be tabled in the National Assembly.
Highlighting Pakistan’s cybersecurity challenges, Fatima stated that the country faces daily cyberattacks, underscoring the government’s focus on cybersecurity and data protection.
Fatima’s remarks come amid growing concerns over Pakistan’s poor global ranking in internet speed. According to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index, the country ranks 100th out of 111 for mobile internet speeds and 141st out of 158 for broadband in October. Pakistan was ranked in the bottom 12% globally for mobile and broadband internet speeds.
Persistent issues, such as difficulty downloading media and interruptions to connectivity, have been frequently reported in the country.
Photo Source: Pakistan Press International (PPI)
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