The last time any fuzz was generated around Free Basics services, it was when Bharti Airtel Africa partnered with Facebook to launch the service across 17 countries in Africa. In case you’re wondering what Free Basic is; it’s a set of basic websites and services to introduce first-timers to the internet and demonstrate how it adds value to their lives. The very peak of its essence is that it will provide zero cost access to services like health, educations, jobs, communication, local content and finance-related information to people in developing countries.
The initiative would appear to have existed in obscurity since then. However, Facebook’s excitement to invite people to a Fireside chat with Ime Archibong, Director of Product Partnerships on the 10th of May shows that a lot has been going on in the background to consolidate on its objective. Only this time it has adopted a more visible approach.
The 3-hour event, which would be holding at the iDEA Hub in Lagos, will feature tech-talks and networking opportunity to show how developers and tech innovators can take advantage of the Free Basic platform to grow their startup and engage a wider audience.
If you’ve been following the trend or you feel this opportunity is tailored just for you, then make your way down to the venue. Again, the date is Tuesday May 10 and time is 4PM and don’t forget to share.
