The debate about online content has been going on in the region for some time, and the World Bank has approved content grants that are yet to be disbursed. Content localization has also been an issue, with some people arguing that the sort of content that would add value to the rural community is different from that which would be valuable to an urban user.

"There is no use in having agricultural extension service videos and lessons in English to a group of farmers who do not understand English and would not make sense of it. Currently I don't think there is sufficient content to serve to the more rural populations that would add value to their lives," added Njihia.

Bandwidth may be the most popular reason why Africa lags behind as an investment destination, but there are other factors such as legislation, politics and corruption.

"Besides bandwidth, we have to show the world that Africa is the place to invest by demystifying stereotypes and improving governance structures, [and] embracing democracy and issues relating to competitiveness," said Bitange Ndemo, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communication.

"Africa has to shorten the red tape, make it easy to establish a business, operate according to rule of law and deal with corruption," said Song.