South Africa has most computers in the region

South Africa has the most number of computers, desktops and laptops combined, in Southern Africa, closely followed by Botswana and Swaziland has the least amount of computers.

The recently released SADC ICT report says member states have “connected” one out of two PCs to e-mail (51%) and to the Internet (49%). These numbers are, however, closer to 80% in places such as South Africa, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia and significantly lower in the DRC.
SADC ministries surveyed by ForgeAhead mostly use leased lines and dial-up technologies to access the Internet and e-mail. In addition, many have leaped frogged to wireless broadband, choosing to take advantage of the coverage offered by established mobile networks.

The 2008 report carries ICT trends that present opportunities for the sector to enhance regional integration, spur e-governance, bridge the digital divide and ensure that the region is a full participant in the knowledge economy.
Jane Mosebi, Managing Director of ForgeAhead says that the report shows that while large numbers of the people continue to be excluded from access to services, others are excluded from usage due to high cost and the absence of the necessary skills.
According to ForgeAhead, ICTs are the only tools that can advance broad-based development and poverty reduction in the SADC region. Deploying reliable and affordable infrastructure and cheaper bandwidth will ensure universal access
The report also says the open access and open source software concepts will go a long way in encouraging interoperability and ensure cheaper connectivity and increase access. Through adoption of Open Access and Open Source Software, ICTs can become accessible to a wider group of people.

ItnewsAfrica.com Reporter