National Information and Communications Technology Policy underdeveloped by international standards and majority of the companies are micro and small-to-medium scale with most of them mainly involved in distributive activities such retailing and the distribution of computer products and services. Not much is done in the area of production and development of ICT products for the local and regional markets. Export industry for ICT goods and services is virtually non-existent. In recognizing the potential of this industry, the government has taken the following initiatives to promote the ICT industry: cultivating a vibrant mobile telecommunication industry and nurturing business incubators to promote startup companies amongst others. Despite these efforts, there are some challenges constraining the growth of the ICT industry and thus limiting the realization of its full potential to substantially contribute to the nation’s development and economic growth. Some of these challenges include: the majority of local companies in the ICT sector and industry are Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s) and most of these are mainly involved in distributive activities like retailing of imported computer products and services. Not much is done in the areas of research and development of ICT products for the local and international markets. The key challenges include lack of incentives to attract investors to invest in ICT products locally; ineffective linkage between foreign direct Investment (FDI) and technology transfer; and a dire need to develop awareness of hidden and under-promoted conceptual and technical assets in intellectual property rights; inadequate support for Research, Development and Innovation limits the growth potential of the local ICT sector and industry 3.8.1.1 Policy Objective To have sustainable ICT industry. 3.8.1.2 Policy Statements The Government, in collaboration with stakeholders shall: i) Promote and support R&D, innovation and entrepreneurship in ICTs; ii) Encourage local ICT development by supporting and providing incentives for innovations in software and hardware; iii) Create an enabling environment to attract investment of private sector financial and technical capabilities for the development of ICT sector and industry; 35