Click Here & Upgrade PDF Complete Expanded Features Unlimited Pages Documents and other programmes addressing a number of critical success factors at central and local government; CHAPTER 4 RATIONALE In broad terms, the development of the National ICT Policy is designed to achieve the following: (a) Facilitating the implementation of constitutional provisions related to information and communication The constitution recognises the Right to Information as implied in the freedom of expression. The implementation of the above commitment requires a policy framework that underpins access to information. (b) Creating leadership and vision in the ICT sector The institutional framework in this policy creates the visibility that ICT deserves at the level of Government. This is in line with other countries that are reaping the benefits of adopting ICTs as part of the national development strategy; many countries on the African continent are recording success in general and ICTs in particular based on this approach. (c) Clear definition of roles and responsibilities among stakeholders The National ICT Policy shall adequately address the roles and responsibilities of various parties such as the Ministry responsible for the ICT portfolio, the Regulator, Legislature, Judiciary, Operators/Service Providers, Public and Private sector as well as Civil Society, Consumers and Individuals. (d) Support the creation of adequate and effective sector legislation and regulatory framework The current legal and regulatory framework governing the ICT sector is considered inadequate by industry players in addressing concerns mainly because it was drawn without a clear sector policy in place; thus creating room for speculation on key policy issues as well as lack of clear direction on roles and responsibilities. Therefore, the revised legislation will draw its powers from this Policy. (e) Creating investor confidence in the ICT sector The National ICT Policy sets clear guidelines on the Dos and Don ts to the local and foreign investors in the sector, especially the private investors thus creating certainty and long-term investor confidence. (f) Ensuring coordinated and effective use of ICTs as an instrument for accelerated social and economic development The digital divide and hence the development divide existing between the developed and developing countries is largely due to economic differences 20

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