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High Cost Of internet Connectivity In Africa: How Do We Achieve Mobile Telephony Success Story?
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Abstract
PCF5: Cross-Cutting Theme // The basic requirement for meaningful use of any web-based tools is to be able to have hassle-free
access to the internet. Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) can only serve
as effective tools of broad-based development and opportunity for all if all people in developing
countries can afford access to them (Khalil, 2003). However, underdeveloped or even complete
absence of telecommunications infrastructure is hampering use of ICTs in rural remote areas
(Mandioma et al., 2007; Adomi, 2005; CIPESA, 2005). Broadening the reach and affordability of
these technologies and services to rural Africa remains a complex and difficult challenge. This is
because terrestrial telecommunications infrastructure requires substantial investments that are
often unaffordable for the public sector and don’t make economic sense to the private sector
(Songan, et al., 2004; Chatelain and Van Wyk, 2007; Fibre for Africa, 2007b; Hasson, 2008). Yet
affordable and reliable internet accessibility in poor rural areas will extend the attendant beneficial
impacts of ICTs. However, all this will depend on a number of key factors. These include (i) Lowcost,
reliable communications infrastructure being built in rural areas. This goes hand in hand with
increased awareness of the value-added services brought about by internet connectivity, which
will in turn create the requisite demand and justify the massive financial and technological
investment. (ii) A supportive and effective legal and regulatory environment being created and
maintained, to ensure competitive markets for communication services (iii) Governments
providing incentives to private sector investment that lead to the expansion of affordable internet
accessibility to rural areas through a range of pro-active policy, regulatory and investment
measures, including public-private sector partnerships, where appropriate. The ultimate measure
of the value and impact of ICTs in development are the desired outcomes that have a bearing on
the Millennium Development Goals, i.e., reduction in poverty levels, thriving African economies,
reduced disease, increased literacy, etc. // Paper ID 289
Subject
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Region
Africa
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Date
2008
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Commonwealth of Learning (COL)