Information Technology Landscape in Kenya

 

ANALYSIS: NATIONAL IT STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

Overview

There are many reasons why the development of Information Technology is slow.  For instance, the connectivity problems is as a result of unusual socio-economic conditions in the country. Other reasons include poor economy, high foreign debt, alarming population growth, declining resources and social infrastructure, and degradation of the environment. These problems have direct impact on the implementation of the network and the kind of public policies that promote connectivity.

It is my hope that with the new governance some of the weaknesses will be eliminated.

The only way to improve IT in Kenya is by:

·  Improving connectivity

· Increasing Internet access

· Lowering costs of hardware and software, and connectivity

· Encouraging research and development on technology

· Developing IT skills

· Assessing and increasing e-commerce readiness and use

 
IT STRENGTHS
 
· Kenya is a relatively stable country. This is vital in any country that is trying to advance.
 
· The privatized Telkom Kenya which is the sole provider of basic telecommunication services.

·  Internet use is growing rapidly. Kenya has one of the largest Internet sectors in Africa, with over 30     licensed ISPs. The Internet is available in Universities, Internet Cafes, community information centers, public libraries, etc

· Electronic commerce has made progress in the tourism industry.

 

IT WEAKNESSES
 
·  Lack of good information on connectivity.
 
·  Poor Telecommunication Infrastructure. Kenya’s telecommunications sector suffers from 
   under-investment and political interference. It is unreliable.
 
· Kenya has not formulated integrated national informatics policies.
 
·  Unreliable electric power.
 
· Lack of research and development on technology.
 
· Lack of trained professionals in IT.
 
· Cost of internet are high.
 
 
 
 
 
 

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