ICT provision to disadvantaged urban communities: A study in South Africa and Nigeria

Abstract

The focus of this research was to develop a sustainable ICT model in a Nigerian community, by evaluating ICT provision in South Africa?s disadvantaged communities and comparing it with the Nigerian situation; to identify applicable models and service mechanisms; and, to identify pitfalls and risks. This research was conducted by analyzing the problem from four points of view: ICT infrastructure, management, influencing factors and the risks of ICT provision in disadvantaged communities. A literature review was undertaken to discuss those issues. Four ICT centres were involved in the case study. The author argued that bridging the digital divide in disadvantaged communities required adequate knowledge of the underlying causes of the divide, a favourable Government policy, a focus on the benefits of providing ICT, the provision of suitable infrastructure, and a committed management that is prepared to get round the various barriers or risks found in disadvantaged communities.