The Use of Information Communication Technologies for Rural Development and Poverty Alleviation in Developing Countries: An Investigation of Gender Specific Agricultural Development

Date

2005-12-15

Advisors

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

ISSN

2077-5040

DOI

Volume Title

Publisher

LINK Centre (Learning Information Networking Knowledge Centre)

Type

Article

Peer reviewed

Yes

Abstract

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have become a priority among developing nations, and play a significant role in supporting rural development. A core aspect associated with rural development is gender specific agriculture, which focuses on elevating women's contributions towards economic and social enhancement through agriculture. An investigation into the use of ICTs by rural women farmers reveals the constraints they face when it comes to taking advantage of such technologies. Studies within Africa and other developing countries illustrate that these constraints are particularly associated with the social and cultural limitations that women encounter in the traditional environments that characterise most developing countries. Local communities, Government and non-governmental organisations should collaborate to devise policies and initiatives that can support the effective implementation and sustainability of ICT projects, and hence start to remove the barriers that limit the potential use of ICTs by rural women.

Description

Keywords

Citation

Pade, C., Mallinson, B., and Lannon, J. (2005) The Use of Information Communication Technologies for Rural Development and Poverty Alleviation in Developing Countries: An Investigation of Gender Specific Agricultural Development. The Southern African Journal of Information and Communication. 6: pp. 4-21

Rights

Research Institute

Centre for Computing and Social Responsibility (CCSR)