Prospects for ICT appropriate technology influence to socio-economic development in South Africa

Abstract

In this paper we discuss appropriate information and communication technologies (ICTs) in rural areas and its influence on socio-economic development efforts and processes in South Africa. ICT Appropriate Technology whilst still at a nascent stage of development in South Africa is increasingly showing potential to stimulate sustainable growth to improve socio-economic conditions in rural areas.

The study set out to determine the role ICT Appropriate Technology has on socioeconomic development and the constraints associated with its adoption in rural areas using qualitative research techniques. This study used data collected through semistructured interviews with representatives able to contribute to the body of knowledge on the topic of ICT Appropriate Technology. Purposive sampling was used to identify participants and the data was analyzed using thematic content analysis.

The key findings revealed that the efficient use of ICT Appropriate Technologies, driven by better high speed internet access is vital for raising productivity and stimulating innovation in rural areas. During the last decade, largely due to the spread of mobile phone technology in rural areas, appropriate ICT technologies have demonstrated the significant and positive impact they can have on economic development in rural areas by improving the business environment. ICT Appropriate Technologies provide business information, access to markets, brings banking services basically in the hands of rural users and helps local rural communities widen their social networks which assists in job creation through linking with others. ICTs play a significant role to promote entrepreneurship and economic progress in rural areas which contributes to improved competitiveness, diversification and quality of life for the rural economy. The study found internet access in conjunction with digital content services creates a wealth of educational learning opportunities for building capacity in rural areas for sustainable development.

The findings from this study determined that the lack of ICT entrepreneurial activity especially in rural areas has a negative effect on the socio-economic status of the country, it was found that shortage of entrepreneurs in the ICT sector was attributed to the scarcity of funding for SMEs and the extremely low levels of education which dis-empowers rural areas from attaining necessary skills vital for entrepreneur know-how for new business start-ups. The progressive shift in demand for ICT skills necessitates a significant reshuffling of existing work patterns, creating a source for turbulence in the labour market affecting the adoption of ICTs across the country as a result of high unemployment. In conclusion, this study argues that conditions for adoption and development of ICT appropriate technology is beneficial for the socio-economic development of the country. However, the speed at which Appropriate ICTs are able to grow coupled with the impact it can achieve will depend on the economy’s ability to overcome identified constraints whilst also exploiting the factors that favour its development.