Utilization of ICTs in Multipurpose Community Telecentres in Rural Malawi

In order to empower rural communities the most important issue is an access which is the crucial factor to get to ICT tools for advancing social and economic developments. These technologies can create new types of economic activities, employment opportunities and enhance social interaction and networking among people. Access to basic telecommunications services is a basic right of the population of Malawi and telecommunications is one of the most important tools in reduction of poverty in rural areas. The government of Malawi established a pilot network of public access ICT facilities called Multipurpose Community Telecentres in rural areas with an aim of addressing the digital divide by providing universal access to basic ICT services in reasonable walking distances by establishing telecentres in strategically located positions. Pattern access and use of telecentre services varies across different socio-economic groups. It also depends on the service and the way its delivery is structured. Therefore, this paper discusses the utilisation of these ICTs in telecentres in rural areas in Malawi considering challenges and opportunities.