Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) for Development in Africa

The accelerated diffusion of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) had a profound impact on societies in both developed and developing countries. There has been a considerable debate on whether the emergence of the so-called digital divide actually has exacerbated tendencies of social and economic exclusion or if opportunities for developing countries to harness ICT for development prevail? This book explores the prospects and the likely impact of these technologies in Africa, with particular reference to Tanzania. It deals with policy-making and strategies attempting to utilise new Information and Communication Technologies for broader development goals, and with their role in a number of areas of social or economic concern, such as governance, private sector development or education.

Autorentext

The Author: Olaf Nielinger studied political science in Cologne, Hull (Great Britain) and Hamburg. He worked as research fellow at the German Overseas Institute and the Institute of African Affairs in Hamburg, where he focused on ICT for development, particularly from an African perspective. Since 2005 Olaf Nielinger works in the section «ICT Development Strategy and Management» at a management and technology consultancy in Bonn.

Inhalt

Contents: Theoretical Framework of the «ICT for Development Debate» - Development and State of ICT in Africa - Creating an Environment for ICT in Tanzania - Policy, Markets and Regulation - Assessing ICT Utilisation in Tanzania.