The Digital Divide in Developing Countries: An Information Society in Africa: towards an information society in Africa - Softcover

Inhaltsangabe

The editors of this book have brought together a fine selection of scientific articles centred around the changing communications landscape in Africa. Indeed, the technological and political convergence of formerly separate communication areas (audio-visual media, telecommunications, informatics) is offering African countries new opportunities. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are increasingly filtering through into the African continent. However Africa has only taken its first steps on the path towards an information society and is far lagging behind when it is compared to the western countries. A new, invisible border, that seperates those who can afford ICTs and those who can not, is arising. This so-called digital divide could have far-reaching consequences. For ICTs give access to information. This information can lead to knowledge. And knowledge is a prerequisite for development. Therefore ICTs are considered to be promising technologies that can be one of the tools to stop the ongoing underdevelopment of Africa. Nevertheless it is also argued in this book that the way to go is long, difficult and problematic. Several authors have formulated recommendations which could be helpful to walk this complicated path towards an information society in Africa.

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