PRESS RELEASE: The Second Universal Service Forum, themed “Universal Service Enables Rural Revitalization”, was held at MWC Barcelona 2025.
The forum drew a large crowd, comprising telecom regulators from multiple countries, regional telecom development agencies, think tanks for ICT development in emerging markets, and many industry partners. Together, they shared insights into the technical approaches and business models for delivering wireless network coverage in underserved areas.
At the forum, Liu Jie, Vice President of Huawei FDD Product Line (R&D), stressed, “Digitalization is key to boosting economies and supporting the United Nations’ sustainable development goals. As part of the digital infrastructure, wireless networks are the cornerstone of digital inclusion and offer significant social and business value. With our extensive experience in the communications sector, we have been constantly innovating wireless network solutions to support universal services, bridge the digital divide, and ensure digital access for all.”
Universal service ensures that all residents, regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic status, can enjoy affordable access to basic communications services. It aims to break down information gaps and drive socio-economic development, especially in rural and underserved areas.
According to GSMA, 3.4 billion people remain unconnected to mobile networks, approximately 80% of whom live in rural or underserved areas. Experts at the forum noted that while promoting universal services, operators often encounter challenges such as high network construction costs, outdated infrastructure, and low user penetration rates. These challenges slow down the construction of digital infrastructure and limit its potential to close the urban-rural gap. Eliminating these obstacles is critical to achieving digital inclusion and sustainable development.
Huawei is dedicated to digital inclusion and offers world-class universal service solutions, which have spurred customer growth. To better serve rural areas, Huawei has launched all-scenario simplified Rural series solutions. These solutions eliminate the need for optical fibers, mains supply, and tower construction, enabling site deployment on a pole or truck, in just a day, at 50% the cost. Cameroon has deployed these wireless solutions to connect over one million people in approximately 320 villages. Moreover, these solutions support distance learning, telemedicine, and e-commerce, fostering local economic growth and enhancing residents’ well-being. They serve as a model for sustainable digital economy development globally.