ICT and Poverty Alleviation in Rural and Developing Countries of Africa

摘要

Poverty alleviation is a major stumbling block that must be overcome in the pursuit of sustainable socioeconomic growth in Africa. This paper focused on poverty eradication in rural communities of Africa through Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). The causes, measures and consequences of poverty in Africa were discussed. The paper then highlighted past attempts and instruments to alleviate poverty in Africa. Areas and conditions where ICT could play a catalytic role in alleviating poverty in rural and developing countries of Africa were pointed out. The paper concluded with the need to grasp ICT opportunities for rapid rural development, empowerment and poverty reduction.