World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS): Concluding remarks by Mr. K.Y. Amoako, executive secretary of the economic commission for Africa

Abstract

Concluding Remarks by Mr. K.Y. Amoako, Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa at the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Africa Regional Preparatory Conference. Mr. Amoako, on his remarks highlighted that, This ministerial committee will aim on the one hand, to harmonize African positions at international fora, and on the other, to bring synergy at the regional level to the multiple initiatives relating to the creation of an inclusive information society. It will also ensure the follow up of African policies and programs in the field of ICTs. Community level and rural access also needs to remain at the top of the agenda as we head to Tunis. Our aim should be for Africa to eventually provide ICT access within walking distance of its entire people. Governments need a strategy on how to generate internal resources for funding their own activities and particularly learn to tap into resources, both financial and technical and human from the African Diaspora. ECA is, therefore exploring the option of harnessing the Diaspora potential with the International Office for Migration (IOM). Africa will need Development Cooperation support to increase ICT access in education and health and to sustain the information society in the long-term.