African Midwifery Studies | 19 March 2004
Digital Inclusion Dynamics in Rural Somali Communities: An Analysis of the Digital Divide
S, u, l, t, a, n, H, u, s, s, e, i, n, ,, A, b, d, i, r, a, h, m, a, n, A, l, i, ,, I, s, m, a, i, e, l, M, o, h, a, m, e, d
Abstract
In rural Somali communities in Somalia, digital access is unevenly distributed, exacerbating existing social inequalities. Qualitative data were collected from interviews with community members and local authorities to explore perceptions of digital access and usage. Participants reported significant barriers, including limited internet infrastructure and low digital literacy, particularly affecting women's health information dissemination. This led to disparities in healthcare delivery. Digital inclusion efforts must address both physical connectivity and educational programmes targeting community members' needs. Investment should focus on improving broadband availability and offering targeted training sessions for marginalized groups like women and youth. digital divide, rural communities, Somalia, qualitative research