Title: Bundling critical information infrastructure in Africa: implications for science and innovation policy

Authors: Bob W. Bell Jr., Calestous Juma

Addresses: Science and Technology for Development Section, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, Bureau E 9071, Palais des Nations, 1211 Geneva 10, Switzerland. ' Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School, 79 John F. Kennedy Street, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA

Abstract: Much of the science and technology policy discussion in Africa has tended to follow the classical linear model which is associated with sectoral S&T ministries and not particularly suited to the needs of African countries. An alternative approach that starts with the use of existing technologies in infrastructure development would be more suitable. With information technology as an entry point, developing countries can design and deploy interdependent infrastructure systems that potentially lower investment costs and improve the performance of critical infrastructures. However, this requires new mechanisms for planning and coordination as well as institutions for associated technological capacity-building.

Keywords: information technology; communications; ICT; interdependent infrastructure systems; science and technology; S&T; ministries; ICT-bundled infrastructure; India; Japan; South Africa; Iceland; infrastructure sharing policies; critical infrastructures; information infrastructures; Africa; science policy; innovation policy; planning; coordination; technological capacity building.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTG.2008.018963

International Journal of Technology and Globalisation, 2008 Vol.4 No.2, pp.186 - 205

Published online: 26 Jun 2008 *

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