The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a $106 million loan to expand broadband internet access in rural areas of Peru, aiming to boost economic development and social inclusion. The project will enhance connectivity in nearly 900 population centers across the regions of Apurímac, Ayacucho, and Junín by installing broadband telecommunications infrastructure, technological equipment, and creating Public Digital Access Spaces (EPADs) and Digital Access Centers (CADs). While EPADs will provide free WiFi access, CADs will offer free internet services, digital tools, and IT training to empower local communities.
The program, supported by the IDB investment loan, prioritizes vulnerable groups, including women and Indigenous populations. It plans to train 908 community digital leaders and 908 digital assistants to effectively manage and operate the CADs. Additionally, the project will connect 977 educational institutions and 115 healthcare facilities, while training 520 teachers and 115 healthcare professionals to improve access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and administrative processes.
Through these efforts, the initiative is expected to enable 27,390 people to acquire digital skills, helping to bridge the digital divide and lower service costs by attracting new internet providers to underserved regions. The project aligns with the objectives of PRONATEL, a national program led by the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC) to expand connectivity in remote areas.
The implementation period for the project is set at 6.5 years. The IDB loan carries a 19-year repayment term with a 6.5-year grace period and an interest rate based on the SOFR benchmark. The MTC will also contribute $26.5 million in counterpart funding to support full project financing and ensure long-term sustainability.
