The Ministry of Telecommunications and the Information Society inaugurated three new Free Digital Access Points on March 19 in the province of Santa Elena. The initiative is expected to benefit more than 13,000 residents in the communities of San Antonio, Barcelona de Manglaralto, and Manantial de Guangala.
The project aims to strengthen digital inclusion and bring technology closer to citizens in these areas. It is part of a broader public policy by the Government of Nuevo Ecuador to reduce the digital divide and ensure that more Ecuadorians can access opportunities provided by technology.
Minister Roberto Kury said during his remarks that the Free Digital Access Points are designed to address digital inequality, especially in rural regions. “Our objective is clear: that the technology reaches every corner of the country and becomes a tool for progress for communities,” Kury said. He also stated that infrastructure now serves as “the backbone of national development,” emphasizing that combining digital infrastructure with human talent is key to transforming Ecuador.
The inauguration event took place at the community center in San Antonio, Manglaralto parish, Santa Elena canton. It was attended by provincial governor Xavier Negrete, local authorities, institutional partners, and members of the public.
Currently, there are 25 Free Digital Access Points across Santa Elena province serving over 323,000 people. More than 9,000 citizens have received training at these sites, which promote internet access, digital skills education, and use of online public services.
With these new facilities opening, officials say they are continuing efforts to drive Ecuador’s digital transformation by promoting equitable access to technology and creating more development opportunities.
