Africa is the birthplace of civilization and for thousands of years introduced the world to technology, mathematics, science and medicine. Even in today’s current conditions Africa is the place with all the answers. Reading two articles by Mo Ibrahim and Richard Heek gave me a new insight into how much mobile communication is valued in poor countries along with the consumption concerns that come with it. In Mobile for Impoverishment Richard Heeks referenced a few different researches only to conclude that we need more research into how mobile phones can help improve the lives of the bottom billion.
Reading the statistic that one research quoted was “48 percent of the respondents say they sometimes substitute important needs like food, clothing and education for mobile phone usage” is not what advocates of new technology are proud of. Yet other studies prove that incomes have increased for some users who use the phone as a tool of production rather than another useless consumption. Unlike many western users the mobile phone is the fastest, cheapest and most convenient form of communicating with relatives, markets and business to businesses. Without a mobile phone many entrepreneurs have to travel long distances to receive valuable information on the products they are selling or buying. Just like the developed world technology makes things more convenient in Africa.
Read the rest of this entry »
Permalink
Leave a Comment
The United Nations World Food Programme warned that it will be cut providing food relief to over 4 million people in Zimbabwe who have been suffering recently due to unfortunate harvesting. There is currently no food in the distribution pipeline in January and February when the crisis is going to reach its peak. In October, the WFP was able to provide food to 2 million people across the southern African country in rural and urban areas.
To read further: UN Cuts Food Aid to Millions
Permalink
Leave a Comment
