What about people whose concern is their next meal, not internet connectivity?

• Author: Mansukhani, Divya

the ripples from the invention of the Internet in 1989 continue to spread, with industrialized countries at the centre and developing countries at the periphery. But, an information gap remains between the two groups of countries. As a consequence, the term "digital divide" has entered everyday language, describing the disparity between those who have access to the latest information and communication technologies and those who do not. However, it is important to explore the nature of the digital divide and of a social divide within each country between the "information rich" and the "information poor."

As information and communication technologies become inexpensive and pervasive across the world, the question is whether it is the availability of and access to hardware and software, or more about social possibilities and the inclination of societies to engage with these technologies. We are in an emerging internet age in which information equals power. Therefore, societies that do not have access to information and communication technologies suffer a serious setback, compounding the burdens of poverty, disease, debt, and illiteracy. Often, people in those societies do not even have access to a telephone--their concerns are focused on their next meal.

Of all the developing regions, Africa stands out as the least networked. A history of colonialism, poor physical and human infrastructures, large distances, and the absence of governmental stability in some parts have contributed to delayed socio-economic development and slow introduction of the Internet. One of the biggest deterrents in Africa is the extremely high cost of providing and accessing the Internet which, in turn, has prevented the emergence of sufficient demand to reduce overall cost. (1) Not ones to be left behind, many African countries have overcome this obstacle by using mobile phones not only for basic communication, but also for internet usage, health services, and even educational initiatives and programmes. (2)

If technological diffusion can be achieved, the Internet could provide multiple opportunities for social as well as economic advancement. Rapid internet expansion represents substantial promise for developing nations, which can benefit greatly from the Internet's communication and information delivery capabilities. Electronic networking is a powerful, rapid, and inexpensive way to communicate and exchange information, and it is also crucial to scientific research...