By and large, 4G networks are layering in on top of existing 3G connectivity in higher income, urban centres, while universal service in more remote, rural areas remains problematic. This may be problematic for the SDGs, as the highest incidences of poverty, hunger and inadequate health coverage are often found in the more remote and rural areas. Therefore, it is important to encourage demand driven private/public partnerships and economic and marketing strategies targeted at rural consumers in order to mitigate persistent access divides. Fresh investment models are needed to unlock the power of ICT connectivity that fuels growth in today's digital economy.