As such, an ICT Business and Technical Association (the ‘Association’) should be formed to function as the central liaison between Government and the private sector. Regular ICT roundtable discussions can serve as a communication channel to inform the private sector of Government ICT projects and to obtain their inputs and guidance in moving the ICT sector and the national ICT agenda forward. This Association is a critical pillar of the implementation approach and would address e‐government initiatives aimed at expanding e‐commerce and e‐ business, and in improving the interaction between business and government. 5.5 Managing Risk In its widest sense, risk can never be totally eliminated. This is particularly true with the implementation of a large integrated National ICT Plan. However, steps can be taken to identify the major risks prior to implementation, to quantify such risks, and to put plans in place to mitigate and manage them. The major risks have been identified and associated mitigation strategies developed. The details are provided below. • ‘Inadequate human resources to implement the Plan’ It is important that the implementation of the various ICT initiatives are carefully sequenced and coordinated to minimise duplication and wastage of effort. Capacity building of ICT resources will be pursued with a focus on implementation. However, in the short term, external consulting resources will be strategically utilised to fill gaps with an objective to transfer knowledge and skills to local and internal staff. And finally, strategic use will be made of the Diaspora through outsourcing and attracting them back home. • ‘Lack of stakeholder support for the various projects resulting in slippage and project failures’ It is important that the consultative and collaborative approach used in the development of the Strategic Plan be continued and strengthened to ensure stakeholder support is enhanced. An effective communications plan must be developed and executed to ensure that grass root support is built and sustained. Unless stakeholders are embraced, implementation will be stymied. • ‘Lack of political support for the Plan results in lack of funding and lack of resources leading to project stoppage, delays or failures’ It is essential that the Strategic Plan meet is goals and targets in order to sustain funding and support. In the first instance, this means that the Quick Wins must be delivered [46]