E-Strategies in Africa : national, sectoral and regional ICT policies, plans and strategies

Abstract

In the global networked economy, information and knowledge have become strategic resources, based on which governments, corporations and the public at large make their decisions. The availability of up-to-date and accurate information, created and disseminated by information and communication technologies (ICTs), has decisive impact on peoples' lives and on the socioeconomic development of a country as a whole. The countries that have created an enabling environment are experiencing revolutionary effects especially in the governance, education, health and business sectors, as its citizens are now more empowered, can change the equilibrium of power and start creating choices and opportunities for themselves. Yet, there are countries in Africa where people are not able to make informed decisions on their daily lives because of lack of access to ICTs, information and knowledge.