AFRICAN TECHNOLOGY POLICY STUDIES NETWORK

This network is supported by a number of donors, and since 2002 has been publishing a number of interesting policy studies. Here are some relating to ICT for Development.

Blueprint for Developing National ICT Policy in Africa
This paper begins with an overview, including discussion of The Digital Divide and its Socio-Economic Development Implications and a review of ‘ICT for Development’ Efforts on the World Scene. It then focuses on developing the African Information Society and Economy, mentioningtThe AISI and the DOI. The paper provides Guidelines to Facilitate the Process of Developing Integrated for Developing the Framework to Guide the Policy and Plan Development Process. I provides suggestions as to Identifying the Critical Success Factors. By Clement Dzidonu, ATPS Special Paper Series No. 5, 2002. (PDF, 36 pages.)
This is also available in French:

African Response to the Information Communication Technology Revolution (Case Study of the ICT Development in Nigeria)
This study reviews some of the ICT for Development initiatives in Africa, and discusses the Nigerian experience. By G. Olalere Ajayi, ATPS Special Paper Series No.8, March 2002. (PDF, 25 pages.)

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs): Poverty Alleviation and Universal Access Policies (A Review of the Current Status and Issues)
Abstract: “This paper provides a basic conceptual and practical foundation for discussing the role of information and communication technologies in the uplifting of poor communities. We commence by stating what we know to be true from several years of working in the telecommunications and information technology field in emerging markets and developing countries. We offer a structural way of addressing the issues related to an increasingly "digital divide", which we represent as two gaps to be bridged by different kinds of policies – both make up a Country’s Universal Access Strategy. We attempt to show what the minimum response of policy makers should be to the challenges they face, through some cases or illustrations from recent experience and analysis. We also report on rural telecommunications developments in Uganda, which promise an encouraging outcome as a potential model for other countries in Africa to consider.” By Andrew Dymond and Sonja Oestmann, ATPS Special Paper Series No.9, March 2002. (PDF, 20 pages.)

ICT Human Resource Development in Africa: Challenges, Strategies and Options
This paper briefly describes some of the experience in other countries, and then suggests criteria for ICT human resources development in Africa. By T.M. Waema, ATPS Special Paper Series No. 10, 2002. (PDF, 17 pages.)

Application of ICTs in Africa: Development of Knowledge workers in Centers of Learning
From the Abstract: “For any economy, organization or individual to be competitive, the application of information communication and technology (ICT) is critical. Recent debates on the digital divide and its impact on emerging markets appreciate that the growth and application of technology in all facets of life is inevitable. In Kenya today, gainful societies must embrace the information age to survive. The UNDP Human Development Report (2001) strongly supports technology as an essential ingredient in any development effort, and it proposes that subsequent interventions include technology of some kind. Employment in the private and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) requires an appropriate level of understanding of ICT, because of the growing use of the skill in conducting business. In the government, through the World Bank sponsored restructuring programme of the Department of Personnel Management, there is a move to outsource non-core support activities and employ better qualified individuals, empowered with essential skills. Development, as an individual or corporate, entrepreneur or employee, private or public body is becoming more dependent on the knowledge base of its units. The “knowledge worker” is rapidly replacing the labourer as basic activities are automated and consolidated by economies of scale because of globalization. Any economy, organization or government that misses this paradigm shift in human resource development will find it difficult to sustain growth and remain competitive. By John M. Waibochi, ATPS Special Paper Series No. 11, 2002. (PDF, 16 pages.)

Strengthening National Information and Communication Technology Policy in Africa: Governance, Equity and Institutional Issues
From the Introduction: “This paper provides a framework for a research agenda on governance of information communication technologies (ICTs) in Africa. It addresses the background, importance and developments in ICTs in general and the governance in particular. The paper also reviews events in Africa and elsewhere, highlighting the importance of governance of ICTs for growth and development in the continent.” By Melvin Ayogu, ATPS Special Paper Series No. 13, 2002. (PDF, 31 pages.)