African Air and Space Law (Law/Engineering crossover) | 03 February 2009
Rebridging Digital Inclusion in Rural South Africa: A Replication Study
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Abstract
Rural areas in South Africa face significant digital exclusion despite advancements in technology infrastructure. A replication study using mixed-methods approach including surveys and qualitative interviews to assess community engagement with digital technologies. The survey results indicated that 65% of respondents reported difficulties accessing digital tools due to limited connectivity (mean bandwidth \(speed = 4\) Mbps). Current strategies for digital inclusion in rural South Africa are effective but require targeted improvements, particularly in broadband infrastructure and user training. Investment in high-speed internet access and community-led technology initiatives are recommended to enhance digital literacy and usage among rural populations.