Governments and investors in Africa are lining up to take advantage of the worldwide explosion in information technologies. African telephone monopolies are seeking foreign investment, cellular markets are booming, fibre optic projects are underway, foreign firms are eagerly bidding for contracts worth many millions of dollars, according to research conducted by BMI-TechKnowledge Africa.
In the short-term, this means a dramatic increase in communications opportunities available to Africa and its people; the medium- and long-term implications could be extraordinary as the economic, political, and social benefits of greater connectivity in the Information Age accrue to the people of the continent. However, BMI-T believes that Africa`s position in the global economy can only be realised if certain fundamental issues are recognised and addressed. "Privatisation of state-owned entities must occur; transparent business processes and deregulated markets are essential to the growth of African economies," says Mark Walker, GM of BMI-T Africa.
"Governments have become increasingly aware that it`s economics, not politics, which will ensure their countries` rightful place in the global community and many have been quick to adopt policies which will promote international investment," says Walker.
"They are looking for international partners to help them build their infrastructure. A World Bank clampdown on aid to countries that do not demonstrate openness and genuine reform is squeezing their budgets and they recognise that they have to make investor friendly political decisions if aid funding is to continue," continues Walker.
Powerful and sustained growth in technology and related markets has occurred in countries such as Tanzania where investor-friendly decisions on privatisation and deregulation have been implemented, this growth then translates directly into improved social and economic conditions at all levels within the county.
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