E-strategies : National Information and Communication Infrastructure (NICI) : best practices and lessons learnt

Abstract

Africa’s economic performance since the mid-1990s has raised hopes of a possible turnaround, compared to the stagnation of the previous two decades. Advances in information and communication technology (ICT) over the last decade have brought dramatic improvements and unprecedented opportunities for Africa’s participation in the global networked economy. The impact of new ICTs has permeated virtually all sectors of society. It is of paramount importance that African countries embrace a common vision and strategy for an information-based society that not only recognizes ICT as a tool for economic innovation but also as a platform for socio-economic development. This publication analyses the work undertaken by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in the area of national ICT strategies. It also highlights the challenges and best practices and proposes recommendations for future activities given the growing scope, scale and importance of knowledge in the global economy.