The African Telecommunications Union (ATU) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Ericsson to support the growth of information and communication technology (ICT) as critical infrastructure for the 21st century, and help set the foundation for social and economic progress in the continent. The partnership aims to promote global and regional co-ordination and harmonisation of spectrum usage to decrease the cost of technology by increasing economies of scale and maximising affordability for all users in Africa. 'Our collaboration with Ericsson is geared towards connecting, innovating and transforming the continent into a knowledge economy,' noted ATU Secretary General John OMO.