In this Policy, Government has defined priority areas that will have a huge impact in the realization of an information society and knowledge-based economy. As Malawi implements the policy, the following benefits are expected to be realised:  job creation and foreign currency savings through local production of ICTbased products and services;  higher education status for the country due to the increased access to education and learning materials at all levels of education;  lower doctor-patient ratios and improved access to medical care and information;  diversified marketing opportunities and increased income for the country. Some of the initiatives that will be implemented through this policy include improvement of ICT infrastructure and connectivity to international internet routes with increased internet bandwidth. These initiatives are intended to bring down the cost of communication especially for the internet-based applications and services. Through this policy, Government will establish a legal and regulatory framework to protect consumers of ICT products and services. 2. BROAD POLICY DIRECTION 2.1. OVERAL POLICY GOAL The goal of the ICT Policy is to contribute to socio-economic development through maximum integration of ICT in all sectors and the provision of ICT services to the rural areas. 2.2. OVERAL POLICY OUTCOMES The following outcomes will be realized after implementing this policy: a. Increased access to basic health and educational facilities; and increased skills in ICT; b. Improved engagement of citizens, increased access to Government services and improved Government transparency; 6